But if those keys can be duplicated at the nearby hardware store, then a false sense of security exists.  

There are many situations where security can be compromised: let's take a look at a few:

'Joe' is given a key to lock up at nite. He's a little forgetful, sometimes misplaces the key, and figures if he had another copy made, and hides it, he could have a backup. If he terminates employment for any reason, he turns in one key and keeps the other, so he can come back at a vulnerable time and you'll have less inventory.

'Mary' has a key and her boyfriend has been eyeing the building. He 'borrows' her car, which has the company key on the ring, gets another key made at the local mall kiosk, and has free reign over your building.

One good way to protect your building and control your keys is with a patented protected keying system that prevents unauthorized duplication without your permission. Copies of your key can only be obtained through authorized dealers, and then only with proper identification and an authorization card. Every duplication is recorded, providing an audit trail and virtually eliminating the possibility of new or additional keys getting into the wrong hands. These systems also provide good pick resistance. That's becoming more important now that the internet has sites teaching anyone how to pick locks.

To find out about good key control systems, call your local locksmith. Make sure the locksmith is a member of a state or national organization, as membership lets you know that the locksmith is keeping up with the latest trends in the security industry. The security of your building, of your home is important to you. Your local locksmith can provide that peace of mind that you deserve.