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There can be a penalty of up to $10,000 imparted for circumventing the law, including the illegal duplication of restricted keys.ĭuplication of restricted keys is limited to approved manufacturers and locksmiths and requires the use of particular tools. patent laws which protect manufacturers of specialized lock and key systems. In order to make some of their products more secure, lock makers have made restricted keys which are harder to copy because the process requires special equipment and because the key design is patent protected. Locksmiths refer to these keys as “restricted,” meaning that duplication rights are limited to the key’s original manufacturer. The good news is that there are some other types of keys available that can help ensure the security of your business. This does not apply to keys protected by law.” Consumers who desire effective security should purchase a patented key control system rather than rely on a ‘Do Not Duplicate’ marking. ALOA members should inform the consumer that the use of keys stamped ‘Do Not Duplicate’ or similar wording, is not effective security, and further that the use of such words is deceptive because it provides a false sense of security. The Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) says, “Orders for keys stamped ‘Do Not Duplicate’ or similar wording will be handled in the same manner as any unrestricted key. For “Do Not Duplicate” Keys, The Associated Locksmiths of America Advises: Because keys labeled “Do Not Duplicate” can actually be copied, your business will need real solutions to successfully increase security. According to the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA), having a “do not duplicate” message inscribed on your company keys may actually provide a false sense of security. Yet the fact remains that keys stamped with “Do Not Duplicate” are no more secure than keys without it. The inscription may decrease the number of copies in circulation because of the need to have them copied by a locksmith. Unauthorized key duplication remains a serious threat to security today and is currently the single most violated security policy in business. Property owners and managers began pressing the “do not duplicate” key message in an attempt to control security violations from terminated employees, former tenants, construction workers and others who gain possession of a key. Keys Marked “Do Not Duplicate” Don’t Increase Security Measures for Increasing Business Security.For “Do Not Duplicate” Keys, The Associated Locksmiths of America Advises:.Keys Marked “Do Not Duplicate” Don’t Increase Security.
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