Asociace českých lockpickerů

SECRET SERVICES AND KEYS: How Spies Opened Hidden Worlds When we hear the word spy, we often imagine a figure in a trench coat picking a lock to access a forbidden world. The truth is often less cinematic—but far more intriguing. Throughout the 20th century, intelligence agencies developed complex systems that combined traditional keys, forgeries, lock replicas, and digital access—all in the name of gaining information. While ordinary people saw keys as simple tools for entry, spies understood them as instruments of power, control, and infiltration. Gaining access to a locked space meant unlocking secrets. Every new locking mechanism [...]

THE ILLUSION OF SECURITY: When Modern Systems Are Just Placebos Today, we rely on modern technology more than ever. Cameras, alarms, smart locks, motion sensors, and security apps have become standard features in both homes and businesses. At first glance, they create an impression of flawless protection. But this impression can be misleading—and dangerous. A false sense of security arises when technology only simulates protection without truly reducing the risk. It’s no longer about the absence of security but the mistaken belief that we are protected. This leads to underestimating risks, carelessness, and a loss of vigilance. A modern security system [...]

How Keys Shape Our Daily Lives Keys are not just objects. They are extensions of our routines, habits, and relationships. From the moment we leave the house to the moment we return, keys accompany us—physically in our pockets or virtually on our devices. They unlock more than doors; they symbolize access, control, responsibility, and trust. Whether mechanical or digital, keys form an invisible but essential part of our lives. This article explores the emotional, cultural, and psychological impact of keys, both traditional and modern. It shows how such a small object can represent power, vulnerability, and connection in a [...]

A THOUSAND YEARS LOCKED: The Oldest Locks and Keys Still in Use The Oldest Lock in the World: Egypt Through the Eyes of a Thief Imagine you’re a thief in ancient Egypt. The air is hot, the walls thick, and in front of you is a wooden door secured by a primitive lock — the first in history. You know that inside might be grain, gold, or secrets. But this time, you can’t just push the door open. You’re facing the earliest form of lock, invented not to impress, but to stop people like you. These wooden pin locks date back [...]

LOCKS IN MOVIES VS. REALITY: What’s Possible – and What’s Not? We’ve all seen it: the hero pulls out a paperclip, pokes at a door lock for five seconds, and slips inside with the ease of a magician. In movies, locks are often portrayed as trivial obstacles – quickly bypassed with minimal effort. But how far from reality are these cinematic scenes? In this article, we’ll take a look at five of the most common lock-related myths found in movies and TV shows. Each will be illustrated with specific examples from popular films – and we’ll break down what’s based on [...]

THE MAGNETIC KEY WITHOUT A KEY: How Modern Touchless Locks Work In a world where we unlock phones with a fingerprint and pay with a wave of a card, it’s no surprise that even door locks are changing. Gone are the days of jingling metal keys; instead, a soft beep, a small light, and a click often open our doors. Today’s security systems are becoming increasingly keyless, touchless, and even invisible to the user. But how do they actually work? In this article, we’ll explore the technologies behind keyless locks – how magnetic systems function, how RFID and NFC [...]

LOCKED OUT: How to Get Back Inside Without Damage – and What Never to Do We’ve all been there. The keys are inside, the door is locked, and you’re standing on the wrong side. First comes panic. Then the urge to call someone. Then the idea of trying a credit card, a bobby pin, or a screwdriver. But hold on – many of these tricks cause more harm than good. This article walks you through what to do (and not do) when you’re locked out. You’ll learn how to handle the situation without damaging your door – and what never to [...]

DEFENSE WITHOUT WEAPONS: What an Individual Can Do in a Crisis Situation It’s easy to think that protecting ourselves and our loved ones requires strength, weapons, or professional training. But reality is often different – in everyday crisis situations, the most decisive factor is your own mind. Awareness. Quick assessment. The ability to avoid mistakes. The ability to be prepared, even if we hope we’ll never need to be. Defense without a weapon isn’t a weakness. It’s a mindset. A way of thinking called prevention, adaptability, and mental presence. Whether you’re in a crowded shopping center, a heated argument [...]

LOCKED IN THE DIGITAL WORLD: When a Password Replaces a Key Once upon a time, a key symbolized security. A tangible metal object we carried, hung on a hook by the door, or hid under a flowerpot. Locking was simple—either it clicked or it didn’t. And only the person holding the key could unlock the door. Today, we unlock not with our hands, but with data. A password, a chip, a fingerprint, a QR code, or remote access via an app. The key no longer has shape, weight, or teeth—it’s information. And because of that, our security has shifted [...]

BLUETOOTH, RFID and NFC: What Do Our Keys Really Know About Us? Wireless technologies have entered both our homes and workplaces. Many of us today unlock doors with a phone, a chip, a card, or a fob. All of these tools—whether they use Bluetooth, RFID, or NFC—appear to be a convenient alternative to traditional keys. But few people stop to think about what kind of information these “smart keys” actually transmit. While a mechanical key opens a lock and does nothing more, a smart key communicates. It tells the system we’re arriving. It logs the time, the place, the [...]

The Biggest Security Mistakes We Make at Home and Work Security mistakes aren’t always due to poor technology—they often stem from simple human negligence. At home, we let ourselves be lulled into a false sense of security by familiar surroundings. At work, we rely on collective responsibility that’s often undefined or misunderstood. The result? Routine errors that lead to real security threats. Whether it’s unlocked doors, weak passwords, or shared access credentials, most issues are preventable. But we keep repeating the same habits—and often don’t even notice. This article highlights 12 of the most common safety and security mistakes [...]

SOCIAL ENGINEERING: The Psychology of Manipulation in Security When people think of “security threats,” they often imagine hackers behind computers, criminals with crowbars, or complex technology designed to break encrypted data. However, few realize that the biggest vulnerability in any security system is the human factor itself. Social engineering is not about breaking software or physical barriers but about manipulating people to achieve a goal. Attackers use psychological tricks, deception, and fraud to obtain sensitive information, gain access to critical systems, or bypass security measures. Throughout history, this approach has been used not only in criminal circles but also [...]

How Lockpicking Became a Hobby and Sport Lockpicking, once an exclusive skill of locksmiths and security professionals, has evolved into a popular hobby and even a competitive sport. While its primary use remains in the security industry, the recreational aspect of lockpicking has drawn enthusiasts from various fields, particularly those interested in problem-solving, mechanics, and security challenges. The Challenge and the Appeal At its core, lockpicking is a puzzle that tests patience, dexterity, and problem-solving abilities. Many hobbyists are drawn to the intellectual challenge it presents—similar to solving a Rubik’s cube or mechanical puzzles. Successfully picking a lock requires [...]

IMPRESSIONING: The Art of Creating a Key Without an Original Impressioning is a technique that requires not only skill but also an eye for detail and precision. This method dates back to the time when master blacksmiths and locksmiths had to work with limited tools and handcraft each key and lock to fit perfectly. It was an art passed down through generations, often as closely guarded secrets of guilds and masters of the trade. Today, despite technological advancements, impressioning remains one of the most respected and sophisticated methods of creating keys without needing an original. Historical Roots and [...]

How the Industrial Revolution Transformed Locksmithing The Industrial Revolution was a turning point in human history, impacting nearly every aspect of daily life, from transportation and communication to industry and trade. Locksmithing, like many other traditional crafts, experienced a profound transformation during this period. The shift from handmade craftsmanship to mechanized mass production fundamentally changed the way locks were designed, manufactured, and utilized. This article explores the Industrial Revolution’s impact on locksmithing and security, as well as the broader technological advancements that influenced the industry. The Industrial Revolution: A New Era of Innovation The Industrial Revolution, which began in [...]

What Security Measures Protect Against Lockpicking? Locks have always been a fundamental part of security, protecting our homes, businesses, and valuables. However, as security systems evolve, so do the methods used to bypass them. Lockpicking, once an essential skill for locksmiths, has become a growing concern in terms of security threats. While ethical lockpickers use their knowledge to test and improve security systems, criminals exploit these weaknesses for unlawful gains. Many people assume that simply having a lock is enough to protect their property, but that is a false sense of security. Poor-quality locks, outdated security measures, and a [...]

LEGAL ASPECTS OF LOCKPICKING: What is Legal and What is Not? Lockpicking is a fascinating skill that operates on the fine line between a legal hobby and a potentially illegal activity. For enthusiasts in locksmithing, security, and competitive lockpicking, it is essential to understand the legal constraints of this practice. Laws vary significantly across different countries, and it is crucial to be aware of the regulations applicable in your region. This article will focus on the legal framework of lockpicking, ethical guidelines, and the risks associated with its unlawful use. Lockpicking as a Skill and Competitive Sport Most people [...]

THE HISTORY OF PADLOCKS: From Simple Mechanisms to High-Tech Security Padlocks have been an essential tool for securing valuables for centuries. They have protected storage units, gates, and doors, ensuring that access remains restricted to those with the proper key. Over time, these locks have evolved from rudimentary wooden mechanisms to highly advanced security systems. This article explores the fascinating history of padlocks, their technological advancements, and how they continue to play a crucial role in modern security. The Origins The concept of a padlock likely emerged from the need to secure storage spaces, gates, and chests while maintaining [...]

HOW CYLINDER LOCKS WORK: Mechanism, Security, and Weak Points Cylinder locks are among the most widely used locking mechanisms for securing homes, offices, and industrial facilities. While they may seem simple at first glance, their internal mechanics hide fascinating technical solutions designed to ensure security against unauthorized access. This article will explore their operating principles, security features, and weaknesses that can be exploited by experienced lockpickers or criminals. 1. The Mechanism of a Cylinder LockA cylinder lock operates on a relatively simple yet effective principle, consisting of several essential components:Lock body (cylinder housing) – the stationary part that houses [...]

THE SECRETS OF LOCKSMITH GUILDS: The Legacy of Masters Who Guarded the World’s Security Since the dawn of civilization, people have sought to protect their possessions and ensure safety for themselves and their loved ones. This effort led to the development of the first locks and, subsequently, the first masters of the trade—locksmiths. As their skills evolved, they began to organize into exclusive societies known as guilds. These organizations played a crucial role not only in the advancement of locksmithing but also in shaping security standards that continue to influence the modern world. These were mysterious societies with strict [...]