Combina - Serrature Meroni from Italy

I'm quite excited about the Combina handles that are arriving soon. I have been showing around a display model that is attracting significant interest. Architects, Interior Designers, Aged Care Homes, are liking the product.

I showed to an aged care home recently and they loved it. No more handle to turn, simple design, easy to use. Perfect for arthritis sufferers.

I am blown away by the choice of options this product is available in.

From the home of Ferrari, Lamborghini, Fiat, Maserati, Da Vinci, Michelangelo this stylish and impressive handle continues the 35 year tradition of use in Europe.

The design options to suit virtually any decor are impressive.

Color coding is a brilliant innovative way to identify individual taste.

(source...)

Locksmith Scammers Caught and Indicted

UNITED STATES ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
EASTERN DISTRICT OF MISSOURI

RICHARD G. CALLAHAN
United States Attorney

February 18, 2011
For Immediate Release

OWNERS OF FLORIDA LOCKSMITH SERVICE INDICTED IN SCAM TO OVERCHARGE FOR LOCKSMITH SERVICES

St. Louis, MO: The United States Attorney’s Office announced today that the owners of a Florida based locksmith service were charged in a superseding indictment on multiple federal charges involving a scam to overcharge customers for locksmith services, as well as employing and harboring illegal aliens.

According to the superseding indictment, Dependable Locks, Inc., headquartered in Clearwater, FL, managed a national network of locksmith technicians, operating from major population centers across the United States, including St. Louis. It also maintained a full-time staff of telephone operators and dispatchers, who were on duty 24 hours per day in Clearwater. The dispatchers received phone calls electronically forwarded from hundreds to thousands of telephone numbers listed nationwide for emergency locksmith services, all of which forwarded consumer calls to the call center in Florida. The dispatchers received the calls and the business dispatched locksmith technicians from the area of the call to respond. Many of the locksmith technicians working for Dependable Locks were aliens who were unlawfully present in the United States and were not authorized to work as locksmith technicians.

The indictment alleges that the locksmith company engaged in deceptive marketing by purchasing directory listings and advertisements in cities across the United States that identified the business to the public as a set of local locksmith companies. The company’s listings used multiple business names, local phone numbers and fake local addresses that had no affiliation with the company. Phone calls to the listed phone numbers were automatically routed to the company’s call center in Clearwater, Florida. In addition, telephone operators for Dependable Locks were instructed by managers to mislead customers to believe that they would be charged around $54 for a car lockout, while the responding technician was instructed by managers to charge up to $179 for a lockout. Technicians used techniques such as accusing the consumer who objected to the overcharge of "theft of services," threatening to call the police, withholding the customer's keys or driver's license to compel payment or following the customer to an ATM machine to ensure payment.

The locksmith technicians allegedly were allowed to split the profits of the fraudulently procured locksmith services with the company and were required to remit the company's share of the proceeds by regularly purchasing and shipping cash, checks and money orders to the Dependable Locks location in Clearwater, FL.

"After more than a year of following numerous leads with ICE and the Missouri Attorney General's Office, we are pleased to see this case continue to progress," said Postal Inspector J.R. Ball of the St. Louis Field Office. He added, "The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is vigilant in investigating allegations where the mail or postal products are used to conceal or further a crime."

DAVID PEER, Clearwater, FL; and ADAM OLIVKOVICH, address unknown, were indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, five felony counts of mail fraud, one felony count of conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens for private financial gain and one felony count of engaging in a pattern of hiring unauthorized aliens. MOSHE AHARONI, Clearwater, FL, was indicted on one felony count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and one felony count of conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens for private financial gain.

Conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and/or a fine up to $250,000. Mail fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and/or a fine up to $250,000. Conspiracy to harbor unlawful aliens for private financial gain carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and/or a fine up to $250,000. Engaging in a pattern of hiring unauthorized aliens carries a maximum penalty of six months in prison and/or a fine of $3,000 per alien. In determining the actual sentences, a Judge is required to consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges.

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Missouri Attorney General’s Office and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant United States Attorneys John Sauer and John Ware are handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

As is always the case, charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.

(source...)

Facecrook - Crimes Associated With Social Networking Sites Increases 7000%

Burglars are a crafty lot aren't they? It is becoming ever more apparent that Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites may be indirectly responsible for a spike in crime, that is unprecedented.

As the holiday season approaches, we all need to be much more vigilant in our approaches to personal and physical security.

According to an article in The Daily Mail in Great Britain...

"A Daily Mail investigation revealed this week that over the past three years, numbers of crimes associated with the networking site have increased by as much as 7,000 per cent in some areas — including cases of murder, rape, paedophilia, bullying, assault and burglary."

Police, insurance companies and IT security experts are so concerned that they have issued urgent warnings to users to be more vigilant about the personal information they post on the web. But all the evidence ­suggests that while the public isn’t growing any more internet savvy, the criminals are.

In spite of the warnings, Facebook users continue to tell their ‘friends’ when they are going on holiday; what the address of their party is; when their birthday is; what expensive items they have bought for their homes; and just how sexy they look in that new outfit.

Facebook has become a very popular method to inform friends (and enemies) of your movements. Criminals have been seen to exploit these mediums to gather intel on the movements of their victims.

When you post your status on Facebook, how sure are you that your network of friends are reliable and trustworthy?

In most cases, I suggest friend can be trusted, but remember that it takes just one loose lip to sink a ship.

In the source below, the article explains about some disturbing incidents of crime that have been attributed to status updates on Facebook.

(source...)

Facebook And Twitter Contribute To Rise In Property Crime

"Users of social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter have been warned by police after two men were convicted of burgling a house whose owners had advertised the fact they were away."

Do you faceoff on Facebook? Do you Tweet? If you do, it is is perhaps important to know that your movements are being watched by many people.

Introducing the iKey: Apple's answer to the humble door key

Apple, the reknowned computer equipment maker and world changing technology company who brought out the sensational iPhone, has set it's sights on the humble door key.

The computer giant, that manufactures the iPod and iPhone, has plans to replace the traditional door key with a hi-tech alternative.

It is developing technology, already being nicknamed the "iKey", which will mean that rather than carrying around a bunch of keys, people will be able to use a single electronic device to unlock their car, front door and gain access to their office.

Users would simply have to enter a pin code and wave the device over an electronic pad fitted beside a door to open it.

The technology is revealed in a newly published patent application, which has generated speculation that the next model of the iPhone will contain this feature.

Apple filed the application with the US Patent Office. It states: "The device can communicate with an external device to open a lock. By way of example, the electronic device may be a model of an iPhone.

"The external device may be any suitable electronic device such as a portable media player, personal data assistant or electronic lock that may be used to access a door, car, house or other physical area."

According to the patent, Apple hopes to replace these cards and keyfobs by allowing the iPhone to be used instead to unlock doors to buildings and cars.

It would exploit a technology known as Near Field Communication, which allows electronic devices to transmit information between each other when in proximity.

In a home, householders would need to install electronic, computer controlled locks to their doors.

The iPhone would need to be registered with the locks so that they could communicate with each other.

By rotating the iPhone near the electronic lock, consumers then select their pin numbers on a dial displayed on the screen, as if entering a combination on a safe.

If the combination entered matched the one held by the electronic lock, the door would open.

If not, an alarm could be sounded or alerts sent to the householder to indicate someone was attempting to gain unauthorised entry.

The patent also proposes encrypting any information that passes between the iPhone and the computer-controlled lock to prevent hackers from "listening in".

The iPhone has become a huge success for Apple after combining their popular iPod with mobile phone technology, selling more than 40 million worldwide.

The iKey technology will take Apple one step further towards creating a ubiquitous mobile device that is the only thing people need to carry in their pockets.

(source...)

Trilogy - By Alarm Lock - Advanced Wireless Standalone Access Control

Alarm Lock Trilogy, a well known, high quality, superior access control solution for modern commercial premises, recently released their new advanced networking upgrade to their line of high class access control door locking solutions.

The benefits of this new addition to the product line, bring Alarm Lock Trilogy to the forefront of commercial access control solutions.

Known as Networx by Trilogy, Alarm Lock have all but solved the access control dilemnas of many and varied commercial applications.

This product is expertly designed to provide commercial properties with the most modern and easily accessed, managed and audited products of their kind available in todays market.

The ability to use the locks with a swipe card, physical key, numbered keypad or swipe + keypad, significantly increases the uses of this sensational new product.

The added ability of wired or wireless 802.11b/g protocols, enables controllers to modify, audit, control the keyless access to security entrances remotely by secured access via the internet.

There are multiple options available, tailored to the demanding requirements of everyone.

The products are Grade 1 quality and priced accordingly.

(source...)

Galaxy - Taking Security To The Next Level

Australian Lock Company, inventors of the unique and ultra-secure bump proof and virtually pick proof key system Bilock, recently introduced this phenomenal advancement in locking system design.

Aptly named, Galaxy, it is the product of significant years of research and product development. It was developed in response to corporate and business demand for secured and safe work premises.

Manufactured using the very latest techniques and the highest quality materials, the Galaxy range provides a revolutionary approach to high security locking. With subtle technical improvements and considered design, Galaxy offers a host of previously unseen attributes to benefit both end users and locksmiths.

Distinctive Design features

The new and innovative Galaxy is designed and built for convenience and efficiency while maximising security.
Providing a greater depth of combinations than most other locks on the market, Galaxy's vast range of core options makes retrofitting existing locks simple and recombinating quick and easy.
Its streamlined design eliminates the need for tumbler pins and/or coded discs to create permutations. The unique simultaneous cutting of both key and codebar using a Computerised Numerical Control (CNC) machine increases production efficiency and reduces the likelihood of error and increases difficulty to duplicate.
Galaxy has incorporated a combination of 316 stainless steel and high speed steel to create a formidable lock. The versatile Galaxy key is super strong and offers wide-ranging colour options for quick and easy identification.

The patent life on the Galaxy extends to 2024. Australian Lock Company recognises the importance of patents to protect the client, agent and manufacturer from copying and therefore exposing the market to reduced security through inferior quality product. We are also protecting our Galaxy range with numerous Patent applications across the world.

Replacement of cylinders and keys

QUICK AND EASY TO RETROFIT AND RECOMBINATE

Galaxy boasts a myriad of advantages and benefits over other conventional locking devices on the market. Galaxy's uniqueness revolves around its ability to remove the centre core to change the programming of the lock, and that its factory built cylinders do not require pinning.

• Galaxy cylinders retrofit most new and existing applications.
• Galaxy cylinders use programmed holes on the codebar for coding.
• Galaxy reduces the cost of replacing cylinders as only the codebar needs replacing and offers the following advantages:
  • Reduced down time.
  • Reduced labour time.
  • Provides less opportunity for human error.

Security

SUPER STRONG, NOT EASILY REPLICATED AND PATENT PROTECTED

• Inbuilt security features are designed for anti picking, anti bumping and to ensure extreme resistance to malicious attack.
• Galaxy's additional locking pins and anti picking teeth on carriages prevent 'code hunting' while torque is applied.
• Galaxy is designed to resist impressioning.
• As Galaxy is only available through Authorised Dealers, the Galaxy key blank can only be reproduced by authorised Galaxy Dealers, offering additional security to the end-user.
• Stringent quality control and authentication procedures by factory technicians ensure manufacturing consistency of cylinders and keys.
• Cylinders and keys are Patent protected until February 2024.

Keys

STURDY COLOUR-CODED IMPRESSION-RESISTANT KEY

• Distinctively designed Galaxy operational keys are available in 21 colours.
• Keys carry authorised Galaxy Dealer details for easy reference and identification.
• If a system is designed correctly, when a master key is lost only the master key and code bars need to be replaced, not the entire range of keys within the system.
• Authorisation is required for additional keys. All keys are cut from code and not duplicated, and the key code is difficult to read from the key.
• Galaxy key strength exceeds Australian Standard. As they are made from stainless steel, keys offer increased wear resistance and the shorter design offers increased strength.
• Cylinder and keys have been cycle tested to 500,000 cycles regularly and with maintenance and lubrication can exceed 700,000.
• Galaxy offers a life-time guarantee on keys.

MADE FROM SUPER STRONG STAINLESS STEEL

Internal components are manufactured from Stainless and High Speed Steel.

• Keys are made from 316 stainless steel and most components are high quality Metal Injection Moulded (MIM).
• Side bars are anti drill and made from high speed steel.
• Cylinders have stainless steel face plate/cap.

The uniqueness of Galaxy revolves around its ability to remove the centre core to change the programming of the lock. Factory built cylinders do not require pinning and therefore offers more confidence for product installation and consistency.

Master Keying

SECURE AND SIMPLIFIED

The Galaxy Grand Master Key system's wide-ranging combinations with tightly controlled security and colour differentiation offers the end user unprecedented protection.
Superseding the traditional and more vulnerable 1 barrel keying systems usually found in today's marketplace, Galaxy has the capacity to carry 3 locks in 1. Inbuilt hidden codes offer further protection by deftly camouflaging the Galaxy master key within the system.

System Coding Capabilities
Access to our computerized master key generated systems allows authorised Galaxy dealers to build extremely complex and diverse Master Key systems to suit any requirement.Up to three separate security levels or locations can be secured using the same code and keys.
Expansion Potential
Galaxy's potential for expansion without having to change the existing system minimises further expense and disruption.
Galaxy has 3 key orientations available for placement of codes:
Left, Centre & Right

• Key blanks twist the Codebar to the desired orientation.
• Orientations are completely independent of each other.
• 3 dedicated key blanks.
• All 3 orientations can be programmed on the one Codebar at the same time.

Flexibility

• Retrofits most lock sets.
• Extensive product range.

Simplicity

• Quick replacement means time and cost savings for lost or stolen keys.
• Easy to use.
• Minimum maintenance.
• Coloured key heads for easy identification.

Security

• Restricted keying system by Authorised Galaxy Dealers only.
• Colour Coded Codebars available for Construction keying.

Durability

• 316 Stainless Steel key exceeds Australian Standards on key strength.

Tamper Resistance

• Tamper proof design of cylinder & key assures resistance to bumping, picking and impressioning.

Quality Assured

• Assembly of cylinders are 100% authenticated by factory technicians.

Legal Protection

• Cylinder and Key designs are backed by Patents which are valid until February 2024.

Lifetime Guarantee on Keys

• Internal components are manufactured from High Speed & Stainless Steel to maximise durability.

Australian designed, developed and manufactured

Galaxy stands out in the marketplace as an Australian designed, developed and manufactured product. Only the Metal Injection Moulded (MIM) components are manufactured for us by the world leaders in this field. Replacement of Cylinders and Keys

• Life time guarantee on keys, Super Strong 316 stainless steel exceeds Australian Standards for strength.
• Cylinder design guarantees resistance to bumping, picking and impressioning.
  
  
  (source...)

Schlage Securekey - coming soon

Schlage, hot on the heels of Kwikset, introduce their own field re-keyable locksets.

I find it rather interesting that many of these types of products are finding their way to market (now - since bump keys, showed why the previous products were infantile)

To be honest, whereas there may be a market for these products, more often we locksmiths are finding that many homeowners do not know they have "that" kind of lock and still will call us to rekey their locks.

Wait until you lose your key.

I havent seen the specs on this product yet, but they say that it is bump proof and pick resistant, but I suggest that it would actually be rather easy to pick (given the quality of many modern day Schlage products) and someone could easily lock you out of your house.

The extra security may or may not be worth it to you, but if you want excellent security for a competitive price with all the abilities that this product brings, look at Bilock. It has been around for decades and has proven itself the world over for it's quality, aesthetic value, ease of use and reliability.

See also Schlage Securekey Problems

See also Kwikset Smartkey problems

(source...)

Bypass Sliding Door Lock With Key

Another design, we hope to make available soon is this unique product tailored for securing the common bypass sliding doors, similar to those found on wardrobes and closets.

The first and only lock to insure security on by-passing doors. This specialty-design hook bolt positively engages the strike in the other door and eliminates possibility of prying doors apart. Only the cylinder face or thumbturn escutcheon and return of lock face is visible from room side.

Many applications exist with current floor plans designed by modern thinking, space saving architects. Enabling the ability to easily partition a large room or banquet hall and effectively secure the doors closed.

Installed similar to a drawer lock, requires precision fitting and is best done by seasoned technician.

I have sliding wardrobes in my house too (must be a '70's design) but mine are with full length mirrors. I'm still searching for a better alternative to secure them.

(price on application)

(source...)

Do Burglars Really Think Like This?

Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it.

More Burglar Opportunists

1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.

2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.

Burglars are opportunists.

Readers Digest, is a well known publication that continues to offer many interesting articles, some of which include very sound advice.

A recent article appeared on their site, indicating the things a would be burglar might look for prior to robbing you.

1. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever look like a crook.

2. The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors.

3. I’ll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he’ll stop what he’s doing and wait to hear it again. If he doesn’t hear it again, he’ll just go back to what he was doing. It’s human nature.

© 2009 Jupiterimages Corporation

4. I’m not complaining, but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it?

5. I love looking in your windows. I’m looking for signs that you’re home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I’d like. I’ll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to pick my targets.

6. Avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page. It’s easier than you think to look up your address.

7. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me, it’s an invitation.

8. If you don’t answer when I knock, I try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and walk right in.

Uniform Crime Reporting Statistics - St Louis County December 2009

Pictured to the left is a map of the St Louis County area. The Green dots represent reported burglaries and larceny-thefts, while the red dots represent robberies, for the period January 8, 2010 - January 22, 2010. (map source...)

Most jurisdictions across the USA are reporting their monthly crime data to the UCR for the FBI, since 1955.

St Louis County makes these records publicly available to interested parties, though the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Statistical Analysis Center. Being in the security protection industry, the knowledge of crime statistics is vital and important to me and my neighbors.

We have been producing relatively regular crime report statistics for particular towns in the St Louis County region, for certain periods in the last year. We have been sourcing this data from third party information mediums. While we cannot guarantee the accuracy of those records, the maps and breakdowns of specific streets and locations of incidents, can be considered worthwile to many people, because they are more specific in nature .

We recently learned about the accurate records that are provided to the Missouri State Highway Patrol and we are pleased to bring this information to our readers here.

In December 2009, the Missouri State Highway Patrol Statistical Analysis Center received the following data provided by all reporting precincts in the St Louis County region:

Murder - 2

Forcible Rape - 11

Robbery - 31

Aggravated Assault - 58

Burglary - 159

Larceny-Theft - 633

Motor Vehicle Theft - 59

Arson - 2

Total Incidents: 955

Where as, professionally we are primarily concerned with Robbery, Burglary and Larceny Theft, all classifications are important to be kept aware of.

My principle service areas (where I receive most of my business from) are Central and West County precinct reporting areas. These specific precincts report 165 total of the 955 reported incidents. 143/165 incidents in my principle service area include specifically Robbery, Burglary and Larceny Theft.

86.67% of all reported crimes to St Louis County Police, in Central and West Central County were property related incidents.

To determine the area that is important to you, we provide the link to this data in the source below.

Expect to hear these reports more often in future.

Electronic Door Locks - Are They Worth The Price?

I have never been a strong proponent of electronic locking products, due to the constant maintenance required to keep them operating at maximum efficiency and certain other issues like poor component constructions, prone to not working in adverse weather conditions etc etc.

Every so often, I am asked to recommend electronic locking products. Having been in the physical security industry over 25 years and worked in multiple continents, I have seen many and varied applications.

The electronic components in security products started way back in the early 20th century when the first electric strike was installed in an upmarket New York apartment complex.

Up until that time, multi-level apartment complexes required doormen and an escorted elevator trip. The advantage that the electric strike presented was the ability to enjoy a secure entrance unmanned 24 hours a day and 7 days a week at a significantly reduced cost.

Most electronic hardwired systems available today are required to be "fail-safe". This means that if the power fails or is interrupted, the device is un-secure. Many product manufacturers started putting in battery back-ups in their products to assist with security necessities.

The advent of wireless systems actually negates the fail-safe mentality until the battery runs out.....but even still many products have an in-built lithium polymer long life battery, to provide just enough power until the main source batteries can be recharged or replaced. (this can also be illegal in a public building due to the fire and building code - depending on your location)

Technology is advancing rapidly and products are slowly becoming better quality and experiencing longer lives, however I still feel it necessary to recommend to my clients to maintain that mechanical back-up "just in case".

This is expressly why the locksmith industry will continue to exist, much to the angst of some.

Locksmiths, for over 2 centuries have been designing, maintaining and creating systems and products designed to protect the assets of the marketplace. Locksmiths will continue to do so for the next 200 years, I'm sure.

When asked "Should We?".....my first answer is based on determining the true benefits. But I always will recommend a mechanical backup.

The true benefits could be, no more keys to worry about (what about the proximity card - doesnt this just take the place of a key?), the ability to perform audit trails (on sophisticated systems), combination entry (negates the need for a key, but requires a code to be remembered - this could lead to codes being shared - leading to a major security issue).

One of the best advances today is the advent of Bio-metric systems. Finger print or Iris identification systems can negate the need for a key or the need to remember a combination (you cannot lend your finger or eye to someone else - can you?). Facial recognition systems are also a new entrant to the market.

The marketplace should also remember that electronic security products are still expensive and not as generally reliable as mechanical security products. Locksmiths can provide restricted key control systems that enable end users to control who has keys to their properties. This is one of the least expensive and most secure methods for protecting assets, often without the need to replace costly hardware.

Mul-T-Lock Easily Bypassed And Bumped Open

A few years ago I had shown this video here on this site to make people aware of potential vulnerabilities in the product. It should be noted that this is clearly in a carefully set up workshop but the technique is correct and identifies that the product has vulnerabilities that are alarming.

Mul-T-Lock have since come out with newer updated versions that include interactive elements (like Bilock) and they are priced at the higher end of the marketing landscape. Mul-t-lock, like Medeco are both owned by Assa-Abloy and neither are bump or pick proof. Schlage Primus and Schlage Everest are products owned by Ingersoll Rand and are neither bump proof nor pick resistant compared to the more competitively priced Bilock product. Bilock is the first 100% Guaranteed Bump Proof and Virtually Pick Proof pin tumbler product available.

IR Microlock (Now Rosslinear)- Stand Alone Battery Powered Electric Strike

Ingersoll-Rand, the parent company of the Schlage Lock Company, were producing quality physical security products for many years.

Pictured here, is a product that has many and varied applications.

This is a stand-alone, narrow stile (mullion) battery powered electric strike with keypad entry.

This application can be installed easily in many hard to fit applications.

Many requests are for access control products that enable keypad entry systems. But there are few products that are designed for the narrow-stile doors found in common shopfronts that are competitively priced and functional.

There are other products that can be used on narrow-stile doors but not many that are purposely designed, battery powered, simple enough to work with your existing lock*, cost effective and of similar quality to this brilliant product.

The Rosslinear is battery powered with an electric strike and numbered keypad and iButton reader.

The strike and keypad is powered by a small in-built lithium powered battery. External cabling and conduit are not required.

The strike is designed to be used with mortise latches or tubular latches, like your common key-in-knob entrance set. It can be used with either knobs or levers.

The Rosslinear strike is suited to individual offices, serviced offices, business centers, communal entries, appartment main entry doors, computer and server rooms, electrical and telecommunication cupboards, store rooms, banks and cash drawers (time- delay model).

There are two models available, standard and additional featured.

Standard

• Access can be keypad (4 - 8 digits) or iButton
• Weather Resistant Keypad
• Temporary keypad lockout to foil attempted guessing of PIN code
• Security cannot be breached by removal of keypad
• Up to 20,000 operations from 3V lithium battery (supplied)
• Ease of programming and operation
• 200 user capacity
• Passage Mode (Door can be left unlocked)
• No additional software to add or delete users
• Anti-tailgate automatic relocking
• No hardwiring or external power supply needed
• Easy to install - no licensed technician required

Additional Features

• Ability to add or delete users without affecting other users
• Time delay opening (up to 16 minutes)
• User lockout function enables all users to be temporarily denied access

Some Example Installations:

Update 08/25/2011: The Ingersoll Rand Microlock is discontinued. The inventor has partnered with Lock Focus to produce the Rosslinear Battery Powered Electric Strike.

We are the exclusive agents in the USA for this fabulous product. We have installed these to communal secure access doors for schools, condominium complexes and automobile dealers.

Many pizza delivery drivers doors use these exclusively because of their ease of installation and low cost.

ASIS Report Discusses Business Security Protection

ASIS International, the respected international preeminent security professionals organization, founded in 1955, is dedicated to increasing the effectiveness and productivity of security professionals by developing educational programs and materials that address broad security interests.

The CRISP Report (Connecting Research In Security to Practise) recently released a new discussion paper related to business security protection systems.

While the report suggests that burglary rates are on the decline internationally, the crime continues to victimize businesses disproportionately despite simple and cost effective methods to protect shops, offices and facilities.

"Research shows that large reductions can be achieved in burglary incidents and losses through interventions that are often simple and costeffective," writes the report's author Tim Prenzler, Ph.D., chief investigator at the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Policing and Security. "Nonetheless, a large proportion of the owners and managers of facilities are reluctant to invest in security."

And this doesn't make sense, considering thieves target businesses disproportionately over homes. Businesses struck by burglars also tend to get hit again and again, a phenomenon known as repeat victimization. One U.K. study quoted in the report found that 3.4 percent of non-residential premises were victimized twice or more compared to 0.2 percent of homes.

Typically, most burglars enter by forcing a window or a door open, regardless of the target. Business owners and managers naturally have more to deal with than just their sense of violation when burglaries occur. The average cost of a burglary came to $5,209 in 2008, according to the U.S. National Retail Security Survey. Yet sometimes a burglary can deliver a knock-out blow to a small business if important tools or records are stolen.

The report explains that burglary became a bigger problem in the United States because of the post-World War II economic boom and its social and cultural impact.

Rapid industrialization put an increasing number of light-weight, high-value goods into stores and homes and these became prime targets for thieves. Access to cars increased offender mobility and the ability to transport larger stolen items. The increase in suitable targets was accompanied by large declines in guardianship. As couples had fewer children, women entered the workforce in greater numbers, and elderly people settled in retirement homes, there were more homes unguarded for longer periods. There was also a shift in residential patterns away from co-location with factories and retail outlets. Empty suburbs during the day, and empty commercial and industrial districts at night, presented a smorgasbord of burglary opportunities.

Young males predominately commit burglaries with approximately 80 percent being fellows between the ages of 15 and 25. The major motivations seem to be "drugs, alcohol, and conspicuous consumption." The bright side: their age and their reasons for committing such crimes makes most burglars easy to deter, the report states.

While the report notes social prevention programs—like methadone programs—and police initiatives—like crime prevention partnerships—can decrease burglary rates, place managers can do a lot more to prevent burglary.

Master Key Systems America has been providing St Louis businesses and residents with premium quality security products and services for over 3 years. Having learned and practised security products and services internationally for over 25 years, our experience in determining your most effective and cost effective physical security solutions are unparalleled.

For your obligation free assessment, call us on (314)266-1533 now or email us sales@locks210.com