A skeleton key (also known as a passkey) is a type of master

key Key or The Key may refer to: Common meanings * Key (cryptography), a piece of information that controls the operation of a cryptography algorithm * Key (lock), device used to control access to places or facilities restricted by a lock * Key (map ...

in which the serrated edge has been removed in such a way that it can open numerous

locks Lock(s) may refer to: Common meanings *Lock and key, a mechanical device used to secure items of importance *Lock (water navigation), a device for boats to transit between different levels of water, as in a canal Arts and entertainment * ''Lock ...

, most commonly the

warded lock A warded lock (also called a ward lock) is a type of lock that uses a set of obstructions, or ''wards'', to prevent the lock from opening unless the correct key is inserted. The correct key has notches or slots corresponding to the obstructions in ...

. The term derives from the fact that the key has been reduced to its essential parts. The term is also used synonymously with master key to refer to any key, keycard or other device capable of opening a variety of locks.

Master keys

A skeleton key is a key that has been filed or cut to create one that can be used to unlock a variety of

s each with a different configuration of wards. This can usually be done by removing most of the center of the key, allowing it to pass by the wards without interference, operating the lock. To counteract the illicit creation of such keys, locksmiths can put wards not just in the center but on the outside as well, making the creation of a skeleton key more difficult.

Lever lock A lever is a simple machine consisting of a beam or rigid rod pivoted at a fixed hinge, or ''fulcrum''. A lever is a rigid body capable of rotating on a point on itself. On the basis of the locations of fulcrum, load and effort, the lever is div ...

skeleton keys are used in a lock with usually three or five levers and a set of wards that come into contact with the

bit The bit is the most basic unit of information in computing and digital communications. The name is a portmanteau of binary digit. The bit represents a logical state with one of two possible values. These values are most commonly represente ...

of the key only on the sides—the top is for pushing the levers to their correct heights while the warded section of the key just has to pass uninterrupted to allow the key to rotate fully. A ''master key'' system of lever locks has the same lever heights in all locks. Each door will have different wards and can only be opened by the correctly warded key or the master key. A ''skeleton key'' has the warded section of the key removed so that it opens all the doors of a system. Some applications, such as a building with multiple entrance doors, have numerous locks that are keyed alike; one key will open every door. A keyed-alike system is different from a master key system as none of the locks have a key that can open only that lock. Skeleton keys have often been associated with attempts to defeat locks for illicit purposes, to release handcuffs for example, and standard keys have been filed down for that purpose. Legitimate skeleton or master keys are used in many modern contexts where lock operation is required and the original key has been lost or is not available. In hotels without

electronic lock An electronic lock (or electric lock) is a locking device which operates by means of electric current. Electric locks are sometimes stand-alone with an electronic control assembly mounted directly to the lock. Electric locks may be connected to ...

s, skeleton keys are used by housekeeping services to enter the rooms.

References

Locksmithing {{crime-stub

Master keys

See also

References