Unauthorised Access: Physical Penetration Testing For IT Security Teams

8.6. Lock Picking Tools

I am not going to cover every kind of lock picking tool under the sun; I simply don't have the space. Instead I cover the tools needed the defeat the locks discussed in Chapter 5. These are mainly those of a pin tumbler design but I also cover tubular and warded lock as well as padlocks.

Traditional Lock Pick sets – those used to lift pins in tumbler locks – are available in sets ranging from three or four picks to dozens. You'll generally use only one or two picks: a rake and a torsion wrench so there's no point in spending a lot of money for an over the top kit. Personally, I think a 14 pick set that includes all you need for about $15–20 is a good choice. When choosing lock pick sets, it's important to look for strict manufacturing tolerances and quality materials. There's nothing more tedious (and embarrassing) than breaking a pick in a client's lock. Look for picks made of spring steel, this is both durable and flexible. One point to bear in mind is that European and Japanese locks are often narrower than their American counterparts. I have no idea why this is; however, there are lock pick sets available that take this into account and also work fine with American locks. Figure 8.11 shows a standard lock pick set.

Figure 8.11. A pick set for opening pin tumbler locks.

There are tools for opening all manner of locks that include:

• Tubular Locks A more ...