Automotive Security & Vehicle Lock Forensics Flashcards

What is the correct sequence of steps when documenting automotive lock evidence at a vehicle crime scene?

Answer: Photograph in place, document in writing, then collect

The correct forensic sequence is to first photograph evidence in its undisturbed state, then document it in writing with location notes, and finally collect the physical evidence to preserve chain of custody.

When a forensic locksmith testifies that a vehicle ignition shows evidence of 'hotwiring,' which physical finding would most strongly support this conclusion?

Answer: Damaged, cut, or bridged wiring inside the steering column housing

Hotwiring bypasses the ignition switch by directly connecting the correct wires in the steering column, leaving physical evidence of cut, stripped insulation, and bridged or taped wire connections.

Which professional organization administers the CFL (Certified Forensic Locksmith) credential and establishes forensic locksmithing standards in the United States?

Answer: ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America)

ALOA administers the CFL certification through its SAVTA division and provides professional standards and educational guidelines for forensic locksmithing in the U.S.

In forensic examination of an automotive lock drilled to gain entry, which combination of evidence would best support a conclusion of forced drilling?

Answer: Metal shavings, drill bit wear marks on the cylinder face, and destroyed internal components

Drilling leaves a distinctive combination of metallic shavings from the destroyed components, circular tool marks on the cylinder face, and completely destroyed internal pin or wafer stacks.

What is the forensic significance of the 'shear line' when examining an automotive lock cylinder for evidence of unauthorized access?

Answer: It is the critical alignment plane where all tumblers must position for the cylinder to rotate

The shear line is the boundary between the rotating plug and the stationary housing; forensic examination of tumbler marks relative to this line reveals how and whether the lock was manipulated.

When conducting a forensic examination to determine whether an automotive lock was impressioned, which finding on a recovered key blank near the vehicle would be most significant?

Answer: Progressive filing marks or irregular depth cuts on the key blade

Impressioning requires repeatedly inserting the blank and filing it based on tumbler contact marks; the resulting key shows progressive, irregular file marks as the locksmith worked toward the correct bitting.

A forensic locksmith is asked to determine whether a vehicle was stolen by relay attack or by OBD port programming. Which evidence type would most help distinguish between these two methods?

Answer: Presence of OBD port tool connector marks and abnormal key count in the ECU versus no physical intrusion evidence for relay attack

OBD programming typically leaves connector marks on the diagnostic port and adds unauthorized key entries in the ECU's key count, while a relay attack leaves no physical evidence — the vehicle operated normally with its existing key count.