Paper 2002/160

Cryptology and Physical Security: Rights Amplification in Master-Keyed Mechanical Locks

Matt Blaze

Abstract

This paper examines mechanical lock security from the perspective of computer science and cryptology. We focus on new and practical attacks for amplifying rights in mechanical pin tumbler locks. Given access to a single master-keyed lock and its associated key, a procedure is given that allows discovery and creation of a working master key for the system. No special skill or equipment, beyond a small number of blank keys and a metal file, is required, and the attacker need engage in no suspicious behavior at the lock's location. Countermeasures are also described that may provide limited protection under certain circumstances. We conclude with directions for research in this area and the suggestion that mechanical locks are worthy objects for study and scrutiny.

Note: Also available at http://www.crypto.com/papers/mk.pdf . Revised final version (6 February 2003)

Metadata
Available format(s)
PDF PS
Category
Applications
Publication info
Published elsewhere. Unknown where it was published
Keywords
applicationslocksrights amplificationnovel applications of cryptanalysisrelated key attacks
Contact author(s)
mab @ crypto com
History
2003-02-16: last of 2 revisions
2002-10-23: received
See all versions
Short URL
https://ia.cr/2002/160
License
Creative Commons Attribution
CC BY

BibTeX

@misc{cryptoeprint:2002/160,
      author = {Matt Blaze},
      title = {Cryptology and Physical Security: Rights Amplification in Master-Keyed Mechanical Locks},
      howpublished = {Cryptology {ePrint} Archive, Paper 2002/160},
      year = {2002},
      url = {https://eprint.iacr.org/2002/160}
}
Note: In order to protect the privacy of readers, eprint.iacr.org does not use cookies or embedded third party content.