A Locksmith Knows About The Lock Picker’s Bible. So Should You.
Marc Tobias, the author of Locks, Safes, and Security: An International Police Reference, which is a two-volume reference book all about locks and lock picking, sometimes referred to as The Bible of Lock Picking has a great deal to say about security and why you should consult a locksmith to ensure your safety. Mr. Tobias’ report on how to use a ballpoint pen to hack tubular locks – locks with circular key interfaces, like those made by Kryptonite – made headlines by publicly ridiculing their bike lock as an overpriced gimmick that’s easier to unlock than most people realize.
The Need To Rekey Locks Is Underestimated
Mr. Tobias shrugs off the notion that publicizing such vulnerabilities helps to feed a growing crime wave. “People are mad because they just wasted 50 bucks,” he says. “People trust their lives and safety to these locks. But most locks are garbage. Look around, they’re easy to open. Not knowing that doesn’t make you safer.” Tobias rolls his eyes and shakes his head in disbelief. “I mean, what do people want – security through ignorance? Wake up.” Most people don’t recognize the necessity to rekey locks that aren’t up to proper safety standards.
Can A Keyless Deadbolt System Be The Solution?
This curmudgeonly 59-year-old uber-safety geek isn’t trying to make friends. He’s here to give a PowerPoint presentation (“Vulnerabilities of Master Key Systems”), talk about the benefits of keyless deadbolt systems and to videotape the newest attacks against the latest locks. So he’s perfectly happy to offer a few friendly tips to a fellow American who’s new to the sport and struggling to learn the ropes.
“You’re retarded,” Tobias says, watching an amateur wrestle with the pins. Mr. Tobias takes hold of the lock and looks inside to make sure that it hasn’t been broken. It is without defects. “I’ll tell you how they teach it in covert-entry camp,” he says, putting a hand on the poor picker’s shoulder. “First, I stick you in a cage. Then I lock the door.” Tobias straightens and smiles. “End of story. Trust me, it works,” he says. “Death is a fantastic motivator.”


Staging an Intervention





