Easiest Way To Break Into A Filing Cabinet

I moved into an office and inherited a filing cabinet without any keys.

Easiest way to break into a filing cabinet.

This may take a bit of experimentation. You ll feel the filing tool slide into place. Losing a key is always frustrating ndash especially when you can 039 t open a file cabinet that holds important financial information such as tax paperwork audits etc. Paperclips may be used to open a locked file cabinet.

Turn the file back and forth to determine which way to unlock it. Move the file clockwise and then counter clockwise so you can find the correct way to unlock the cabinet. Fortunately filing cabinet locks are typically low quality and can be bypassed with some simple tools and a finesse. The key for that cabinet will open yours.

Look for a filing cabinet with the same number on the lock cylinder. If you look at a lock and are able to conjure up multiple easy ways to break into it then it should be a clear sign that the particular lock is not a reliable security option. As far as security goes the file cabinet locks that most manufacturers place on their cabinets are hardware props and nothing more. You may be able to talk the equipment dealer into selling you a single key or letting you borrow his to open your cabinet or take to a locksmith to get a new key made.

Another option is to pick the lock using a pair of paper clips. The different methods of gaining access to a locked file cabinet each present benefits in certain situations. I was able to order keys from the internet using the manufacturer and the code on the face of the lock and had them in a few days for less than 10. Many filing cabinets use simple wafer locks though which can often be picked by using a paperclip or even rocking a different key up and down while attempting to turn it.