Lock-hackers crack restricted keys used to secure data centres

A group of Melbourne lock-pickers have forged a creative method for popping so-called restricted locks by 3D printing keys found on freely-available designs on patent sites.

The feat demonstrated at the BSides Canberra security conference last week is a combination of opportunistic ingenuity and lock-picking mastery, and will be warmly-received by red team penetration testers and criminals alike.

Lock-picking is common within the information security industry, is a staple at hacker conventions, and is becoming an increasingly used skill as part of anything-goes attempts to access controlled areas wherein computers can be found. Restricted keys are controlled by limiting manufacture to expensive specialist locksmiths who require licences and specific machinery to produce the keys.