CFL Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CFL facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which type of automotive lock mechanism uses flat, spring-loaded wafers as its primary tumbler components? → Wafer tumbler lock
2. What is the most important ethical consideration for CFL professionals in key & lock examination? → Maintaining objectivity, integrity, and confidentiality in all professional work
3. Which method provides the most reliable assessment of a specific lock's pick resistance? → Skilled manual picking attempt by a trained forensic locksmith under controlled conditions
4. Why is it important to understand different types of keyways in forensic locksmithing? → To identify key duplication methods.
5. What does the acronym PATS stand for in Ford's vehicle security architecture? → Passive Anti-Theft System
6. When documenting vulnerabilities, what should a CFL note about a lock cylinder's projection beyond the door face? → Excessive projection increases the risk of a cylinder pull attack by providing leverage
7. What is the role of a forensic locksmith in evidence handling? → To open locks and preserve the integrity of the evidence
8. What is the first step in forensic analysis during a crime scene investigation? → Securing the crime scene
9. When a CFL collects metal filings from below a drilled lock, how should these be packaged? → In a sealed paper envelope or rigid pill box with evidence tape and proper case labeling
10. What is the most important ethical consideration for CFL professionals in tool mark analysis? → Maintaining objectivity, integrity, and confidentiality in all professional work
11. A 'valet key' in an automotive security system is specifically designed to do which of the following? → Start the engine and open doors while restricting access to locked storage areas
12. What material is commonly used for vault walls to ensure maximum security? → Reinforced steel or composite materials
13. What is the ethical obligation of a forensic locksmith regarding the quality of their work? → To ensure that all work is conducted accurately and ethically
14. Why must forensic locksmiths follow strict protocols in evidence handling? → To prevent the legal challenges to the evidence's admissibility
15. Which rating system is commonly used in the US to classify lock resistance to attack? → ANSI/BHMA grading system (Grades 1, 2, and 3)
16. Why is it important to handle evidence in a forensic investigation with care? → To ensure it can be presented in court
17. What is the proper term for the written account a CFL submits documenting findings, methodology, and conclusions? → Forensic examination report
18. How can a forensic locksmith identify whether a safe has been tampered with? → By looking for signs of tampering, such as scratches and misaligned parts
19. What type of locking mechanism is commonly used in vaults for high-security environments? → Electronic and biometric locks
20. What is the primary security function of a transponder chip embedded in an automotive ignition key? → To authenticate the key and permit the engine to start
21. What is the most important ethical consideration for CFL professionals in security system analysis? → Maintaining objectivity, integrity, and confidentiality in all professional work
22. A CFL finds a Grade 3 deadbolt on an exterior door during a security survey. What is the forensic significance? → Grade 3 is the lowest ANSI grade, offering minimal resistance to forced entry
23. Which of the following is a common method used to break into a vault? → Manipulating the vault's electronic lock
24. What is the importance of vault door thickness in security? → It impacts the security level of the vault
25. When photographing a lock at a crime scene, which lighting technique best reveals pick marks and tool marks? → Oblique (raking) lighting from a low angle to the lock surface
26. What should be done if evidence is contaminated during an investigation? → The contamination should be reported and documented
27. During forensic examination of an automotive lock cylinder, what mark pattern would most strongly suggest the use of a pick tool rather than an original key? → Fine scratches on the tumblers at irregular heights inconsistent with any single key
28. Which of the following is an important step in analyzing a lock in forensic locksmithing? → Observing its design and construction
29. In automotive forensics, what is a 'relay attack' on a keyless entry system? → An attack that amplifies a key fob's signal to unlock a vehicle from a greater distance
30. Why must forensic locksmiths keep client information confidential? → To respect the client’s privacy and ensure fairness in the investigation.