How to Prevent Unauthorized Key Duplication in Your Business

Even the best locks can’t protect your business if someone has an unauthorized copy of your key. Many Phoenix business owners don’t realize that standard keys can be duplicated at almost any hardware store—no questions asked.

At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm, we help businesses take full control of their keys and stop unauthorized copies before they happen.

Need a secure key system? View our Phoenix commercial locksmith services

Why Key Duplication Is a Problem

Without restrictions, anyone with access to a standard key—even temporarily—can have a duplicate made. That includes
Disgruntled employees
Contractors
Cleaning staff
Vendors or temp workers
This leaves your building vulnerable long after they’re gone.

Locksmith-Recommended Ways to Prevent Key Duplication

1. Use Restricted or Patented Key Systems

Restricted keys use unique cuts and keyways that
Cannot be copied without your authorization
Are only duplicated by a specific locksmith (like us)
Require signature verification or written permission
We track every key made and assigned to your business.

2. Avoid “Do Not Duplicate” Keys

Keys stamped with “Do Not Duplicate” offer little protection. Most hardware stores still copy them. The only way to truly prevent copies is with a restricted key system backed by a licensed locksmith.

3. Log and Track Every Key Issued

Maintain a written or digital key log showing
Who has each key
When it was issued
What areas it unlocks
When it should be returned
Accountability discourages employees from making unauthorized copies.

4. Rekey When Keys Are Lost or Unreturned

If an employee leaves and doesn’t return their key—or it goes missing—rekey the affected locks immediately. We can reset the lock to a new key without replacing the hardware.

5. Control Access to Key Storage

Keep master keys, spares, and backup keys in
Locked key cabinets
Audit-controlled lockboxes
Secure areas with limited access

Best for These Businesses

Office buildings
Retail stores
Medical clinics
Property management companies
Restaurants and cafes
Industrial or warehouse facilities
HOAs and multi-tenant properties

Bonus: Add Smart Locks or Access Control

For businesses that want total control, consider upgrading to
Keypad locks with unique PINs
Fob- or card-based access control systems
Mobile app access with remote management
These systems remove physical keys altogether.

Phoenix Areas We Help Secure

We install restricted key systems across
Ahwatukee
Arcadia
Maryvale
Downtown Phoenix
Biltmore
Camelback East
South and North Phoenix
And all Maricopa County cities

Take Back Control of Your Keys

Unauthorized key duplication is an invisible threat—but one you can stop with the right system. We’ll help you protect your property, people, and peace of mind with locksmith-grade access control.

Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
(602) 854-2766
affordablesecurityphoenix.com

Related Service Page

Worried about key control in your business?
Let our Phoenix commercial locksmiths install a duplication-proof key system