Can 3-D Printed Robots Defeat Your Combination Locks?

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A recent discussion highlights concerns over the security of combination locks after a hacker developed an Arduino-based device capable of cracking certain locks in just 30 seconds. This device exploits vulnerabilities in four-digit passcodes, which are commonly used, while full password options remain more secure. The conversation also touches on the historical context of lock picking, referencing techniques that have been around for ages, and the notion that many locks serve primarily as a deterrent rather than a robust security measure. Participants share anecdotes about their experiences with locks, including a story about a GSA-approved safe that was compromised but still maintained security for sensitive materials through a double-layered protection system. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the need for reevaluating security measures for valuables, particularly those secured with combination locks.
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This is like the iPhone hacking device. It tries a combo and if it fails immediately shuts off the phone and repeats the process. Shutting the phone down prevents it from locking out the hack after a limited number of tries.

The attack is effective on the four digit passcode not the full password option which most people don't use.

So basically your iPhone isn't safe and locked in your locker it's not safe either.
 
The combination disc trick is as old as Moses for cracking locks. I usually have a master key just to save time with those types of locks.
5755_1280114257.jpg


Locksmithing was an approved school for the GI bill. :wink:
 
nsaspook said:
The combination disc trick is as old as Moses for cracking locks. I usually have a master key just to save time with those types of locks.
5755_1280114257.jpg


Locksmithing was an approved school for the GI bill. :wink:
No finesse whatever. Feynman picked locks with finesse.
 
zoobyshoe said:
No finesse whatever. Feynman picked locks with finesse.

There's a time to finesse and there's a time to get the job done quickly. Most locks and safes are mainly for show. We had a GSA approved safe for some very sensitive material. The thing had a big hole in the side covered up with a magnetic clip-board to hide where we drilled it when one of the officers lost the combo, after the inspection we ordered a new safe.
 
nsaspook said:
There's a time to finesse and there's a time to get the job done quickly. Most locks and safes are mainly for show. We had a GSA approved safe for some very sensitive material. The thing had a big hole in the side covered up with a magnetic clip-board to hide where we drilled it when one of the officers lost the combo, after the inspection we ordered a new safe.
Great story! Make sure to include that in your autobiography, "Surely You're Joking, Mr nsaspook!"
 
zoobyshoe said:
Great story! Make sure to include that in your autobiography, "Surely You're Joking, Mr nsaspook!"

There was never any loss of security to the most sensitive material, the safe inside the safe (the material inside was under two man control) was still good and I knew the combo for that one. The stuff under the first lock was just regular TS (SIOP-ESI).
Antique%20safe%20inside%20a%20safe%206.jpe
 
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nsaspook said:
There was never any loss of security to the most sensitive material, the safe inside the safe (the material inside was under two man control) was still good and I knew the combo for that one. The stuff under the first lock was just regular TS (SIOP-ESI).
Antique%20safe%20inside%20a%20safe%206.jpe
Oh I see! A double layer of protection. I didn't know they made safes like that.
 

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