Experts warned: a copy of a key can be made from a photo in 15 minutes

A harmless-looking photo of a set of keys posted on social media can turn into a serious security threat. Cybersecurity specialists warn that modern technology is already enough to make a duplicate key from a regular photo in 10–15 minutes.

Ethical hacker Evan Ottinger drew attention to the issue. He showed that creating a copy does not require expensive equipment or secret technologies. A clear photo of the key, open templates for determining its geometry, and software that can build an accurate 3D model for later printing are enough.

According to the expert, if the profile and cuts of the key are clearly visible in the image, that may be enough to reconstruct its shape. After that, the model can be printed on a 3D printer or used as a template for making a metal duplicate.

Experts note that such methods have been known to physical security specialists for a long time, but with the development of technology they have become much more accessible. If previously an attacker had to get the key in hand, even if only for a short time, now in some cases a high-quality photograph is enough.

Posts where users boast about buying an apartment, a new car, or simply upload selfies holding keys pose a particular danger. Combined with open information about a place of residence, such images can provide attackers with far more data than it may seem at first glance.

At the same time, specialists emphasize that not every key can be reproduced from a photo. Modern cylinder systems with copy protection, magnetic elements, or complex internal mechanisms significantly complicate or completely rule out the production of a working duplicate from a single image. However, ordinary mechanical keys remain the most vulnerable.

Experts recommend not publishing photos in which keys are clearly visible. If this cannot be avoided, it is better to hide or blur their profile and cuts. Such a simple precaution will help reduce the risk of unauthorized duplication and improve the security of a home or car.