Key control, or more accurately the lack of key control is one of the biggest risks that businesses face.

What is the risk?

Imagine, you have fired a trusted employee, unknown to you that person had a spare key to your business, they come back after hours and steal business secrets, account lists, equipment or anything else of value. Would this scenario hurt your business?

Even if the person turned in all of the keys they had been given, can you be sure they did not have a duplicate made?

Even worse, a current trusted employee could be stealing from you.

Your first line of defense ? A Key Control or High Security Lock & Key System

Not having a patent controlled key system leads to unauthorized key duplication, which leads to employee theft.

Even keys that are stamped "Do Not Duplicate" are of little assurance. If all keys were duplicated by only trusted, ethical businesses this might be enough, however almost any department store, home center, lumberyard, even drug stores duplicate keys. Should you really expect the minimum wage clerk in some of these places to watch out for your security?

Most key control systems utilize patented keys and or cylinders, because they are patented, the duplication of keys can only be done by factory authorized professional locksmiths.

The key blanks and lock cylinders are made available only to those same factory authorized professional locksmiths.

The key duplication and/or control can be at the locksmith dealer level, at the distributor level, or at the manufacturer level.

All high security key control systems require specific permission to have keys originated or duplicated. These procedures means there is a record of who had keys made and when, and who authorized it, which in turn assures that the owner will always know who has keys and how many. If an employee leaves and you get the keys back, you can be reasonably assured that no copies of your keys are floating around.

Your Security Professional, can help you select the system most suited to your needs. For more information, explore the links below.

Please visit http://www.SecureYourStuff.com for links to manufacturers sites and crime prevention sites, many of which have additional security tips.

Jimmie Newell a Security Professional and Consultant for over 35 years, operates a wed site who's mission is to bring you information about security systems , security devices and security hardware. To help you to make informed and educated decisions about securing your personal property, your home and your business property. Visit http://www.secureYourStuff.com for more info.