[795] TSA Master Keys - Why You Should NEVER Use Travel Locks (Except on Luggage)

[@ShinobiDiabolik]

lockpicking lawyer gives us another valuable lesson. for those of you who ask why you show thieves how to steal, he does not. theves know how to steal without this video. What lockpicking lawyer is doing is show us what we are vulnerable to, and how they attack us, so we know how to defend ourself and so we know what to protect ourselfs from.

[@prohunter717]

Well said mate. There's tons of guides online and there will always be determined people everywhere on the questionable side of morale. At least LWP shows us what is good and what is bad and how to protect ourselves from thieves and very craft lock pickers. There are can be lock pickers out in the world who are probably more skilled than LWP but they are obviously not gonna oust themselves from the shadows. With LWP, He gives us a valuable life lesson and in a fun informative way. With him by our side, we know which locks to avoid and how to choose a more better suited lock.

[@WheelchairGunfighter]

Criminals know these things without online access. Human creativity is amazing when you start with the presupposition that there are no rules to solving a problem. We say the same thing with violence. Violence breaks all the rules of civil discourse, but it solves problems all but universally. This is also a lesson to the rest of us that problems can be approached nonlinearly in general. If you can be creative in trying to break your own stuff, you can fix it before someone else breaks it.

[@danpowell806]

The only thing bad about the master key being readily available here is that it’s easier to look innocent using a key versus a pair of pliers.

[@prohunter717]

@@danpowell806 , as TLP pointed out, they were never meant to be used as actual locks. Even without the keys, they offer little resistance to forceful entry. They are only used for luggage in the care of the TSA so that it does not open unexpectedly but the TSA can unlock them if they need to check the contents of the luggage or else apparently they just take a pair of bolt cutters to your really expensive lock.

[@Jay-hu6ne]

Valuable lesson? Wrong, this could create a beginner thief and could show him how to identify these locks and take away that deterrent

[@apriljones1013]

I used a non tsa approved lock on my suitcase once, and the TSA broke my lock for a “random inspection.” They also folded all my clothes lol

[@MelanieOh]

I'm never folding my clothes anymore, I'm just gonna stuff everything in my case and l use a non-TSA lock lol

[@itz_lexiii_]

shit i guess ill just go to the airport to do my laundry

[@dewai]

@Joe Casson I've used them flying international out of SEA

[@ckm-mkc]

@Joe Casson Use a zip tie - that is accepted and TSA will replace it.

[@johnfrancisdoe1563]

ck m Try something with a personal signature or a unique serial number, so you can tell if it was opened and replaced.

[@charanth182]

Illustration as to why "backdoor" access is a bad thing for digital locks. It only takes one small leak and security is gone.

[@ciarangale4738]

doesnt even really need a leak, as it only takes 1 hacker who is happy to leak their findings, ignoring the damage one hacker could do with that sort of access

[@daanwilmer]

@@ciarangale4738 One hacker that leaks their findings is still a leak, even though it's not from a government source.

[@deidyomega]

If its based on a security key or token, that security key should be rotatable. Now will every company in the world remember to rotate their keys when they should.. no. But theory is sound. Not saying its a good idea of course.

[@RyanTosh]

In general I'm fine with some level of government "spying" (enough to hopefully do its job), but anyone who suggests giving ANY organization control over ANY private or authenticated piece of technology fails to understand how powerful anyone with access to that information would become, and how bad it would be for everyone if there was a leak.

[@aldproductions2301]

oh no, it's bad for digital locks too. While i support having a physical key kept in a relatively high security environment, any sort of digital backdoor can be distributed to everyone in virtually no time.

[@zacmac7047]

This reminds me of a fun thing with the TSA: if you're travelling on an interior flight in the USA and are carrying very valuable luggage, pack it alongside a firearm, even unloaded this means you need it in a bag secured with a non-tsa lock and have to be present for any inspections - useful if you're carrying your super-expensive bespoke cosplay gear that you'd rather keep an eye on

[@wirebrushproductions1001]

Also note that a cheap plastic flare gun counts as a firearm for TSA purposes.

[@shura0107]

Also, a stripped lower receiver from an AR-15 counts. A stripped lower is simply a chunk of metal without any working parts, but is considered the firearm, as it is serial numbered. Stripped lowers can be had for

[@wirebrushproductions1001]

@@shura0107 Flare guns are even cheaper, and there is less chance of something really bad happening if it is stolen. Plus, it's a lot smaller.

[@Sldejo]

When I want a pat down and a visit with TSA, I just carry a full size tube of toothpaste.

[@Enemji]

Even an AirSoft BB gun counts as a firearm.

[@chickensmack]

When we moved to a new housing development in the early '70s, the real estate agent gave my mom a master key to every house in the neighborhood, on one of our visits. My mom made a copy of the key, so we had a key to all of our neighbors' houses. She let our neighbors know about this, once we moved in. This meant that every time someone got locked out, we got a call and I'd get sent over on my bicycle to let them in.

[@thewikid8815]

And I thought this was going in a different direction

[@GrandmaSezSo]

Making a personal key to homes you do not own is not really an upstanding thing to do for an agent or anyone, for that matter.

[@RachelWrenches]

Very cool, but that was back in the day when people were not nuts. Today they would have accused you every time they lost ANYTHING lol.

[@chickensmack]

@@GrandmaSezSo I don't disagree.

[@Usmodlover]

@@RachelWrenchesjust as many (if not more) people were nuts “back in the day”, just you didn’t know as many and you didn’t hear as much about them

[@wazz35]

I bought a cheap 4 pack of travel locks that DIDN'T have the sticker on them, tried to pick one, when I turned the tension wrench it opened the lock

[@FancifulBrian]

Have come across this too...

[@tnpsheepdog3289]

I’ve shoved my pocket knife into a brinks that did have the sticker and it opened with a smooth turn. As if I had the key...

[@wkdravenna]

Lol you scared it open. It saw the tension bar and folded.

[@MrOpenGL]

I've had luggage locks open by slightly pulling sideways on the shackle. They are made so poorly that all it takes is a few microns of movement to release it...

[@randomhomosapien-bi8ix]

Wazzuuup GD lol

[@TheBasedShark]

I actually purchased some travel locks in the US, I believe from Target. It actually included the tsa master key in the package. Didn't just look like one, it was an exact copy.

[@mothlastname2413]

That would be the key to that lock only not the master

[@saints360row]

@@mothlastname2413, I suppose you missed them saying "Didn't just look like one, it was an exact copy"?

[@Jdbye]

Must have been made in China. Only they could be that sloppy.

[@VRJacky]

I swear that happened to us once too, we have this 1 key that unlocks all our luggage whilst the other keys don't unlock other luggage locks of ours, we don't remember where or when we got it just that we have it

[@lugoorstar]

@@VRJacky same, my sister brought luggage locks for my aunt and grandma, because they where going to the USA for 8 months, one of every 2 keys in *every* lock was a master key.

[@Fulmynato]

The whole idea of the TSA master key is flawed by design, and is a good example of why any sort of "government backdoor" some would like to introduce on IT systems is a terrible idea.

[@orlandomorris-johnson6867]

My government just passed laws mandating those exact kinds of IT "secure" Backdoors.. Im ripping my hair out cause i know i could probably use those backdoors as well. Oh, and these are mandatory for any service that uses encryption, yes, that includes banking ......

[@wmmt]

That Bill is Shorten of amendments... 🤦‍♂️ pardon the puns.

[@volundrfrey896]

The problem is that the law makers doesn't know shit about the things they make laws about. A government backdoor makes sense to people who doesn't understand it.

[@aycc-nbh7289]

Orlando Morris-Johnson You could probably do your banking and get your IT software from some other country, no?

[@viscountalpha]

@@orlandomorris-johnson6867 i hope the backdoor direcly affects them.

[@mouaxiong8618]

*"Master lock, Which of course obviously opens"* Seems about right on every master lock

[@artbrann]

at this point, I am half expecting a master lock to open itself when he puts it on camera

[@Theogenerang]

The fact there are only seven TSA master keys reminds of a story I was told by an aviation mechanic how there were only a dozen or less master keys for a certain brand of aircraft. He could move any of them around the airport at a moments notice with one key ring.

[@kobold90]

Really? I rather expected that they don't have any locks at all. Simply because you don't enter the tarmac without getting registered.

[@jeepien]

@@kobold90 :: Yeah most planes do not have keys at all. Fishy story.

[@superslimanoniem4712]

@@kobold90 probably smaller (non-commercial) planes, think cessna's and the like

[@cogenerate]

I'll give you another reason to avoid them: I have a Pelican case with TSA locks built into the hasps. I didn't purchase the case for this feature, it simply came with it. Not ever wanting to have my luggage delayed due to some agent not being able to get into my luggage, I threw away the keys to the case so I'd never be tempted to lock it. On one trip, I arrived at the job site to find some TSA prick had locked my case and I had to take it to a locksmith to get it open. This seems like the end of the story but it gets more interesting... He didn't have a TSA master key so he filed-down a handcuff key (which for some reason he did have) and it worked. He sold me the key and I carry it with me in a different case that doesn't have built-in locks in the event this ever happens again. I mostly travel domestically these days (and TSA has never found the handcuff key) but sometimes I take a trip abroad. On a trip to Edmonton I was taken to secondary and had to explain to a very upset Canadian customs officer why I was carrying a handcuff key in one of my bags (and the guy had absolutely no sense of humor).

[@cogenerate]

@Vic Denton It happened. Get over yourself.

[@cogenerate]

@Vic Denton I hate to tell you this but it's absolutely the truth. Canada is overly critical of people travelling there on work visas, but with the reaction of the customs official that day, I feel like my work status had nothing to do with it. If anything I was down-playing the whole experience. Even as I tried to explain to him why the key was in there he was quite rude and apprehensive (I know, strange for a Canadian, right?) acting more like an American traffic cop with a chip on his shoulder than a customs official. But it's not strange when you take into account the rules Canada has for foreign workers entering their country. ANY previous arrests or criminal convictions can bar you from entering on a work visa (even a DUI). I have a co-worker who was turned away at the border because someone used his social security number fraudulently. They repeatedly pose the question "What special qualifications do you have the prevents a Canadian from doing the work you are here to perform?". But honestly Canada is not the worst of the countries I've been to when it comes to strict customs officers. Something as trivial as a misspelled name on prescription medication can get you in serious trouble in most Arab countries. I got pulled into secondary while travelling to Dubai for a pair of nail clippers (the kind that look like a tiny pair of scissors 3-inches long). But yes. What I said did in fact happen, exactly the way I said it did. The guy acted like I was trying to get away with the Hope diamond. Though the next time I traveled to Edmonton I had an entirely different experience. A female customs official was standing to the side as I was waiting for my bags. It was apparent she was watching me, but after my previous experience I tried to pretend I didn't notice. As soon as my bags came off the carousel she approached me and I thought "here it comes". She asked if I would mind her using my baggage as a test for their K-9. She wanted to put some sort of thing in my tool box that would cause the dog to make a positive reaction to it. Still suspicious I said "Sure, but I need to use the restroom". When I came back she thanked me and said since I helped her she would help me by taking me to the head of the line. I was still suspicious of what her real intentions might be but she checked me through and I went on my way without further incident, feeling more puzzled than anything else.

[@JonatasAdoM]

You should keep it safe in case someone handcuffs you

[@dreamthefirst1345]

Oh nice, I live in Edmonton

[@HariSeldon913]

I'm no fan of the TSA, but it's very possible there was no malice in locking the case. It's much more likely it was opened by one person and closed by another who didn't know it was unlocked already.

[@stormbornapostle5188]

Masterlock still offers more protection than the TSA itself does.

[@theepicpeguin]

You're not perfect.

[@stephenmanuel9860]

Truth.

[@stephenmanuel9860]

@@theepicpeguin Neither are you. Point being...?

[@theepicpeguin]

@@stephenmanuel9860 haha. Guess you haven't watched courage the cowardly dog. In a scene, courage has a nightmare with that blue monster the guy has a profile pic saying, " you're not perfect." Courage frantically wakes up after that... (P.S. I know I'm not perfect, it's not achievable in this earth). :)

[@AmateurContendr]

@@stephenmanuel9860 woooosh

[@htomerif]

I had a knee-jerk reaction to the title of this and thought "no one would ever use one of these things outside of protecting luggage from the most casual of theft" but of course they would. If there was one video of yours that I'd like to see get several million views, it would be this one. Not because its particularly unique among your videos but because companies seem to be using "TSA compliant" to imply that these locks are somehow even better than regular locks when they're actually much, much worse. Everyone needs to watch at least one lock picking video to have this illusion of invulnerability shattered.

[@MarcosElMalo2]

I have an interesting “solution” for luggage. Use a zip tie. Pack a couple of zip ties of different colors where they’ll be easily seen, along with a note to whomever is searching your luggage: please reseal with provided zip ties. I suggest using different colors and avoiding black, white, or clear. Place some subtle pen marks on the tie near its tightening mechanism. Document all of this with photos. You’ve established whether or not your luggage was opened while in TSA or Airline custody*. You’re protecting your luggage from accidental opening. There is no guarantee that the TSA official searching your luggage will reseal your bags as you requested, but you’ll at least know that, too.

[@sootcoot8712]

Or someone working in construction or manufacturing will easily open your zip ties and since you have provided a pen mark on them the thief may know how far he need to lock it without bringing initial suspition. Opening a zip tie (without damagin it) is about as easy as lockpicking for LPL.

[@chrisbaier6252]

I use a wire twist tie. That way I know if the luggage has been opened and doesn’t draw attention like a lock would. I wrap one end on the zipper and then loop it through the lock holes on the zipper. So if they undo it from the lock holes it doesn’t fall away and get lost.

[@The-Secret-Dragon]

how does that deter people when you can simply cut the ziptie?

[@corvididaecorax2991]

​@@The-Secret-Dragon It provides similar levels of protection to any of the locks shown, which could also easily be broken open with a common tool such as a pair of pliers. Zip ties are cheaper though, and have some possibility of showing if tampering has occurred.

[@yankeesforlife24]

Idk about all luggage but when they opened a box I had transported they resealed it with TSA tape and left a few flyers stating it was opened for random inspection and resealed.

[@ymeynot0405]

TSA locks are also great for bondage gear. Because the are so easy to open without the correct key, incase anything goes wrong.

[@daven1719]

And your safe word is TSA_007

[@sebrofc]

@@daven1719 🤣

[@UndercoverDog]

Hahahahaha

[@Not_interestEd-]

Aye, whatever rocks your boat. Some of us don't judge.

[@bourbonwarrior1618]

I'm going to save this video and show it to people that think "master keys" are a good idea for encryption.

[@AmateurContendr]

Not all encryption needs to be military grade.

[@ignat340]

@@AmateurContendr I disagree

[@no1DdC]

@@AmateurContendr Nonsense. You either have the best possible encryption or none at all.

[@Warhamer116]

@@AmateurContendr spoken like true TSA worker.

[@SebastianHaban]

Master keys are not a good idea but this video is bad at proofing that point for encryptions since locks and encryption are not that comparable. The lockpicking lawyer can pick almost any lock in few minutes while a 128 or 256 bit encryption takes longer to decrypt without the right key than humanity exists till today with current hardware. So while a lock is pretty unsafe with or without a master key (the provided example with the locker room only works because a thive might get busted while picking the lock by people walking in, something that is not the case when trying to decrypt some encrypted messages or data) the security of encryption wouldn't be much lower when a second key (the master key) existed (in a theoretical case where the authority obtaining the master key would NOT leak it). Though the damage would be way bigger if an encryption master key would leak to the public since a lock only secures minor valuable items (bikes, luggage etc.) all the encrypted information worldwide (all the businesses secrets, all banking stuff, etc) has a much higher value. So is there ANYONE out there you'd trust with such responsibility? I guess not

[@zeendaniels5809]

I think your picking was faster than using the key 😂

[@YourSavant]

It usually is.

[@mauled2death]

Nah he was just fumbling a bit, LPL got so used to lock picking that he forgot how to use keys

[@Jaymac720]

He probably forgot how to use a key because he picks so much more

[@crono6664]

I’m wondering if he owns any sets of keys, since the lock pick kit is probably faster for him

[@k1llsh0t_87]

@@crono6664 I mean on one hand I feel like he prob has some really secure locks for his house but on the other hand I can see him instantly picking it anyways lol

[@skulpturlamm294]

I prefer zip ties on my luggage. They are pretty much as secure, but I see if my luggage was opened the moment I take it of the carousel. This way I can check if anything is missing or was added before I leave the terminal / go through customs.

[@two_tier_gary_rumain]

The only problem with that is that the zip ties could get ripped off on the conveyors or while being handled. I learnt that the hard way with external padlocks on my first suitcase. First few times was OK but, on one trip, one of the padlocks got ripped off as well as the zipper handles it was attached to. I thought someone broke in until I realised what has happened. My second attempt was a hard shell suitcase with a hard rim. Looked OK and worked OK - until it got knocked about. Then found, because the rims got dented, that I couldn't close it properly any more. My third attempt was a hard shell case with a zippered rim. But the zipper handles get locked into a latch near the handle. This prevents them moving around and you don't need a little padlock because the latch is also a lock. This suitcase held up the best. The hard shells protected it but the zipper rims added some flexibility to it. And the fact that the zipper handles could be locked away meant that someone couldn't break into it and reclose it.

[@konzetsu6068]

Gary Rumain I have such a case as well, trouble is... I always forget the combination and have to decode the lock (which is ridiculously easy on most tsa locks)... hence I only trust that lock to keep my zipper closed and greasy fingers at bay. Give a person two minutes with the bag and he’s in. Ballpoint pen or not.

[@Parafaragaramus1]

@Fei Xiang you could put an odd colored zip tie on. If it comes back with a different zip tie then you know

[@flyingd2]

I still think you are all short sided on the fact that luggage locks accomplish nothing. Don't believe me? Secure your luggage with a lock. With the zipper at the farthest end of the bag and poke the sealed zipper in the middle with a pointed object (screw driver, pen, etc). The bag can now be opened. Take what you need and pull the closed lock back over the zipper. Tada! Sealed. The only thing a lock has ever accomplished was to remove the pulls on the zipper. Quit wasting your money and effort.

[@ckm-mkc]

Bonus is that in most cases, if they open your luggage, they will replace the zip tie - happened to me, only once 'tho and that was years ago.

[@sarahschiller28]

Just wanted to say thank you! I'm a long-time watcher and I've always had a passing interest in lockpicking, but I never tried it myself. A friend is visiting from out of town and forgot her luggage key at home, and videos like this one inspired me to give it a go. In a pinch, a key that fit in the keyhole was able to rake it open after about a minute. Not something I'd expect to work on most locks but on one of these...? Anyway, it felt good to be able to help her access her own belongings without having to break the lock.

[@marshallhill7447]

(How to pick the TSA002 without key below) Great video! I will say though, I was hoping to learn how to pick my tsa002 cable lock which I forgot the combination to (the orange 'travel more' one). I'm not skilled with a paper clip, nor do I have lock picking tools or the lock picking key shown in this video. I decided that I'd just fool with the lock to see if I could feel anything pop if I messed with the wire shackle or button, and surely enough if you press relatively hard on the button, and turn each of the wheels from the top down, when you get the right one you will feel the button bump down a just a little bit, but very distinctly. After you get all three (takes less than a minute) the lock pops right open.

[@noremorse6898]

I used to use TSA locks on my work tool kit when I traveled, but my luggage kept arriving with the lock missing, so I gave up and just put a spring-loaded steel snap link through the hasp on the toolkit to help keep it from popping open. One time I tried a key-retaining TSA lock. When I retrieved my toolkit at my destination, I found the remains of the lock inside the case, tied up in a rubber glove. TSA moron apparently thought his key was trapped in the lock and busted it apart.

[@extrafriedBob]

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[@theotaku7]

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[@kadenfurr9699]

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[@hii-people2245]

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[@aspiezio]

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[@Slightlylyons1]

Before TSA we locked luggage to keep the security people from stealing from you now they have the key.

[@si2foo]

yeah and the security people still steal your shit

[@HariSeldon913]

I ran out of them, but I used to grab security tags from a place I once worked and put them on the luggage. It wasn't meant to keep a person out, but rather to make it evident that the bag had been opened.

[@dbill7486]

Not just to keep security people out, but baggage handlers and airline staff and discourage someone from just grabbing your bag off the baggage claim belt.

[@zachfila]

Derrick C get real

[@DinnerForkTongue]

@Derrick C Ok junkie

[@LatitudeSky]

This is good, but also keep in mind, luggage, gym bags, suitcases, backpacks, etc, with plastic-track zippers can all be opened with nothing more than a ballpoint pen, or some other somewhat sharp object. Perhaps even a door key. The thief can take what they want. Or leave items. And shuffle the zipper pull over the open track and heal it back to sealed status and leave no evidence behind. They also don't need to carry any items that look like lock picks or entry tools, as many common objects will work fine. Basically, there is no security. It's all theater. Even the metal detector lines are theater.

[@si2foo]

yeah but the ball point method is well a bit to obvious

[@KG-th3cr]

@@si2foo No it's not. You just pass the zippers over the teeth again and they go back together.

[@si2foo]

@@KG-th3cr no thats how you close it again i mean it is fucking obvious to open it with the pen in lets say a airport

[@MonkeyJedi99]

The last time I traveled by air was about5 years before the TSA existed. I used a military duffel bag with a normal padlock through the closing hasp. If I had to travel by air now, I thing I would do as others have recommended and just have a carry on, and buy clothes at my destination, then donate them to a charity or mail them to my house before I left to go home.

[@MonkeyJedi99]

@@si2foo It's the theft when it is out of your/public view that the locks and clamshell suitcases are meant to protect against. The TSA back-door locks just throw that all away. You might as well pack your stuff in a canvas bag closed with a twist tie.

[@Flurinamsler]

To quote Tim Cook, CEO of Apple: “You can’t have a backdoor that’s only for the good guys“ For me this TSA locks are dead on arrival. Even before 3D printers became common, there were some pictures of all TSA keys available on the internet. And the locking mechanism of these locks can be picked pretty easy. I think the TSA master lock make these locks even weaker because you can choose the weaker of the both entries. @Lockpickinglawyer: you’re making people safer. One (picked) lock at a time. Keep up your great work! 👍

[@Enemji]

It actually sounds wierd hearing about backdoors from Tim Cook

[@UndercoverDog]

Ironic that Tim Cook says that 😂

[@davidfrischknecht8261]

I have a set of luggage combination locks with the TravelSentry logo on them. According to the documentation that came with the locks, the TravelSentry logos will pop out if the master key is used to unlock them and can't be pushed back in until the combination is used to unlock them.

[@DaHaiZhu]

More security theater

[@adamrasmussen3521]

How so? They serve the purpose of keeping your luggage shut during transport. Have you never seen a pile of clothes and an open bag drop down on the conveyor belt after a flight? My backpack definitely needs them when i check it in. Some use string but that's a hassle and if tsa breaks them to get into the bag they won't bother to tie it shut again. Elegant solution!

[@tomwebb3081]

@@adamrasmussen3521 I think the OP was referring to the TSA as "security theatre" - but these locks probably count anyway, given they only look secure to an untrained eye. And yes, locks may stop your pants from falling out your suitcase but that only works if TSA re-locks them again after inspection. My last flight from Dulles to LHR, TSA didn't re-lock and the contents of one suitcase were spilling all over the baggage reclaim...

[@MrOpenGL]

@@tomwebb3081You should probably get the few locks that retain the key when they are open :)

[@BobBobson]

Not at all. They're intended to keep your bag closed, nothing more. Unless you have hard shell luggage without a zipper if someone wants to steal anything out of your bag all they have to do is shove a pen in the zipper to pop it open, take whatever they like, then move the locked zippers back and forth and it'll re-engage the zipper, making it look like the bag was never opened.

[@thomasneal9291]

"You should probably get the few locks that retain the key when they are open :)" that's not a lock, that's a latch.

[@ShaunDreclin]

A great visual demonstration of why encryption backdoors are a terrible idea

[@mhappy4520]

Master locks generally cry out for this kind of treatment... Well said!

[@miksal26]

On several journeys we have taken to the US ,we have discovered that the TSA operators find that a pair of pliers used to rip off the lock is far more effective than using their master key. Cheers from Downunder👍🇦🇺

[@rcsontag]

I used these locks on a recent journey. They are supposed to be able to be opened by the TSA. However, in two pieces of luggage, a TSA inspection notice was found and the lock shackles were cut. So much for playing by the rules.

[@tomwebb3081]

You don't need a key, nor even picks. I've got a combination TSA lock built in to a suitcase (it prevents the "pen" opening trick). TSA opened my bag, and didn't re lock the TSA lock, which meant no combination was required to open the lock - it opened regardless of the code inputted. To resecure the lock I used a floss pick - jammed the pointed end into the keyway and turned - it locked the bag and it meant only my combination opened it. Unless, of course, someone else had the super difficult to get hold of floss pick... 🙄

[@sebastiannielsen]

Propably the lock is designed so no key is required to lock it, only a screwdriver or similiar. Ergo, the wafers are formed like ramps so locking is allowed without key but not unlocking.

[@ckm-mkc]

I use zip ties on my luggage - TSA will replace them if they open them. I keep a nail trimmer in my carryon to open my bags at destination.

[@johnfrancisdoe1563]

ck m Why not a box cutter? Weren't those approved for carry-on back in the day :-(

[@donwald3436]

Aren't nail clippers considered lethal weapons?

[@kiddhkane]

@@donwald3436 They are. Not allowed as carry on.

[@StarNumbers]

I use a colored ribbon or a hankie to secure the zipper and id my bag

[@StarNumbers]

@@buckeye25osu Allowed. Terrorists use zip ties for handcuffs and ... you'll be ready.

[@Hiphop15142]

Ohh as soon as i saw those locks i knew this was gonna be a brutally honest & savage video 🤔🤔😂

[@redrock425]

This is why in some world airports you can "cling film" your case. Still not secure but makes it a lot more hassle to open 👍

[@paul_the_merciful]

I learn something every time I watch your videos. Things I've always suspected but was afraid to ask 🙁

[@Macintosh007]

Another trick to open luggage is to simply shove a pen anywhere between the zip teeth and it splits open. You can close it back up by moving the zip over the open area without a trace.

[@hiltonian_1260]

I used a TSA lock on my luggage once. Instead of using a master key they clipped the cable and left the lock inside my bag. As if the inept security theater wasn’t aggravating enough.

[@EvilTurkeySlices]

The TSA needs to be disbanded, they do literally nothing but make life harder.

[@kevinanderson9904]

If it was a combination lock it's possible there was an issue with the lock itself. I work in baggage for the TSA and occasionally will have to cut a combination lock open because the lock won't open with the correct key no matter how much I try. In those cases the lock is at fault

[@tobiasreaper3650]

@@kevinanderson9904 no one cares FYI: Been there done that

[@chinastar1177]

Maybe it was not TSA but a baggage handler trying to rummage through your stuff to see what they can steal

[@eatlightning1]

@@kevinanderson9904 Some people think that if you can't get inside, you'll just let it go. So give you the wrong combo.

[@electronicsNmore]

You produce very good videos.

[@johnqpublic7191]

I agree, I’m in possession of way more stuff now.

[@jackiesharp018]

I've learned how to lockpick so well that my classmates come to me for locked lockers instead of teachers

[@chriszuidema]

It would be awesome if you can do a video about how a master key works. Especially because it looked so different from the original keys.

[@panda4247]

basically you have two positions on each bit, that it accepts. e.g. in pin tumbler lock, the pin has two shear lines, so the key can have two different heights at that position to open it. The same for every pin. For disc detainer, I suppose the discs have multiple true gates, etc. The downside (that not many people talk about) is that it accepts any key that matches the bitting of any of those two keys Let's say you have two keys (random numbers representing 5 bits of different heights): Normal: 13654 Master: 36543 The lock would accept any key that matches either of those positions. e.g. 33554, etc. So, if you live in an apartment building/hotel, etc and the landlord has a masterkey for all doors, and you have your key, you can simply make your own masterkey by changing your key bit by bit (as I understand it, the heights of the pins are relatively standard, so you can file it down one step at a time) If you know your key 13654 woks, you can try 63654, 53654, 43654, 33654, 23654 and one of those will work and voila, you've discovered first bit of the master key. Basically, if you have 5 pins and 6 possible heights, normally it would take up to 6^5=7776 tries to guess the correct key. But if you have one key, guessing the master from it takes only up to 5*6=30 tries.

[@deadmanbg]

I have one of these, it opened the moment I inserted my pick in it. And you don't even need a pick, the gaps on the combination cylinders are so wide you can see the gates.

[@leesaudan]

I have a TSA lock, too. I could pick it open with just an unbent paperclip! No tension wrench needed. I have little practical lock picking skills. kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6LXfJqkZ7tjitU

[@tomwebb3081]

@@leesaudan I've used a floss pick before to open a TSA lock...

[@CarsSimplified]

Wow, there's not much to them!

[@cpt_nordbart]

I once saw a TSA lock in a "escape the room" house. We still had to use the code though...

[@jaypaans3471]

Using a master key to open a Master lock doesn't sound weird.

[@oysteroyster2508]

Using anything to open a Master lock wouldn't be surprising. The issue is that master keys (skeleton keys that can open up any locks of a specific type) are so readily available

[@UndercoverDog]

​@@oysteroyster2508The lockpicking lawyer scale says: Most secure: "The Tool bosnian Bill and i made" Least secure: Any peace of trash on his desk

[@RachelWrenches]

Good to know! The reason I am getting non TSA locks is to keep the agents at the TSA gate out of my carry on bags. I have heard and seen stories of them rummaging through check bags. The zip tie idea is even better!

[@laureng2110]

Sorry man, they have bolt cutters as well as master keys.

[@joekahno]

Every piece of federal legislation consistently accomplishes the exact opposite of it's stated purpose. The TSA has a federal mandate to prevent you from taking any useful steps to ensure your security while traveling.

[@daddylopz3100]

This is it, the most ignorant comment.

[@greenranger1983]

I just bought two TSA locks at Target but since I only need them to secure my snake terrariums I think I'll be ok.

[@greenranger1983]

You're right they're absolute rubbish I picked one of them in about three seconds with an ordinary hair pin I was just mucking about and I popped right open. Before I started I thought "I'm just gonna try this for kicks and giggles," but it actually worked.

[@OktoberSunset]

@@greenranger1983 I dunno. If TSA agents can open them then I wouldn't put it past a snake. Even with no limbs and no frontal cortex I think they average snake has greater intelligence and dexterity than the average TSA agent.

[@ThexDynastxQueen]

I'm guessing your snake slithered near the lock and was able to escape.

[@LuizAlexPhoenix]

Billy hasn't responded, the snakes are loose. I REPEAT, THE SNAKES ARE LOOSE! Run for your lives!

[@Enemji]

mF Snakes 🐍 on A Plane 😀

[@vass935]

I mean, with people like you around who's basically a living master key, nothing is safe...

[@computerguts8166]

well, i think he did mention a few locks he can't pick.the one I remember is the abus lock in video 471.

[@josuelservin2409]

The wrong part in the equation is to think that a simple lock is going to be enough to protect something valuable. A lock should be only a piece in a security scheme, and we have to thank people like him for destroying not only those locks but the flawed conceptions.

[@user-cu1uj6bl3r]

Most malicious lock pickers don't put guides out there on how to break into a lock. You want people to think locks work just fine, and in fact someone to look out for would encourage people to use locks they could easily break into. Making these locks appear insecure doesn't make the problem worse, it just sheds light on how most locks are simply suggestions, rather than protection. Whats stopping someone from just cutting a bag open, or smashing a window? Nothing. Actually nothing. Maybe laws, but not the laws of physics. Criminals are already breaking the law, what's a broken window or a cut bag to them? They're already stealing.

[@rexluminus9867]

Some thieves cut these locks open and study them. Soon they realise the patterns. Than can easily make the MASTER 🔑KEY*** Now you can understand it. They don't need some one else's tips. 😂Hahaha.

[@AmateurContendr]

"Living master key" sounds like the coolest nickname.

[@jigles4330]

When I was younger my mom used one of these to lock up stuff she took when I was grounded, little did she know I could open it with literally anything that could turn the lock lmao

[@d1zzy_75]

My dad has like 20 of these and I can pick all of them with a fork

[@MrMarttivainaa]

Lol you gave me the idea to try and sure enough, stick a fork in there, press the pins down and twist. And I've only ever picked my nose before, what a joke!

[@randallthomas5207]

I zip tie the zipper pulls on my luggage, with a tag which says, “There is a bag of zip ties inside. If you need to open for inspection, replace the one you cut”

[@FrostEesOP]

I do the same. I put a green zip tie on the luggage and a red one inside with the note. If there is a red zip tie (or no zip tie) when I collect my luggage, I know the check the contenst immediately to make sure everything is there (in case it was opened by someone other than an inspector).

[@thedoeweb]

Great video, have a question for all. What is the best way to secure valuables when staying abroad or in AirBNBs? Given the understanding that most valued type locks are easily picked. I have thought of getting the PacSafe TraveSafe bag with a higher end security lock. Ultimately if someone wants something and have some tools or knowledge they are going to get it as I understand.

[@DoctorX17]

I'd love if you could do a video explaining how the mechanism works with two totally different keys

[@bdf2718]

To quote from the book _Alice in Security Theatre Land_ - "pick me."

[@KiIlabeez]

I found my suitcase locks just a bit ago and had the thought I wonder if LPL has a video about these. I was not surprised and I enjoyed it! Well done

[@PatrickPierceBateman]

Watching you open those locks was satisfying. I enjoyed it very much.

[@PapaWheelie1]

Series suggestion - many bridges in large cities have bridges covered with locks right next to signs that say it is illegal to place locks on bridge. You could pick and remove as many as you could as a public service. I just went over the Brooklyn bridge and saw some higher end ones along with tons of cheap ones.

[@dumpsterstu4474]

Sonds fun! I'd watch that.

[@beavisbutt-headson3223]

I was thinking the same thing after seeing that on a bridge or two in town here. As far as I know they periodically get bolt-cuttered off anyway. Also, I think the habit of locking a padlock to a public bridge as a symbol of love is stupid so it'd be a good way to express my grouchiness

[@Icekid419]

Not sure the actual legality of this as he doesn’t own the locks and doesn’t have permission from their owners to pick them

[@trashbin4717]

@icekid419 actually there are volunteer groups that go around removing the locks as a public service because the weight of all the locks causes damage to the structure of the bridge, compromising safety and costing tax dollars to repair, hence the illegality of putting them there in the first place. there shouldn’t be a legal issue with picking the locks off at all.

[@Izumabakumatsu]

@@Icekid419 Dunno about your place, but where I am, if the place says it's illegal to put something there, then there is no problem for a good samaritan to help dispose of it. If you got permission from the local council, you even got permission to dispose them. The 'owner' of the illegal stuff (in this case the locks that are locked on the bridges) does'nt have any rights to say no to the disposal it since what they did was illegal in the first place.

[@insus100]

I once forgot the code of one of those , and I opened putting a flat headed screwdriver into the key hole

[@SpunkMouthwash]

Oh dear I remember one of bosnianbill's vids how it was easy to get in a suitcase and zip it back up without touching the lock 🤐

[@jonathanbott87]

I used a double loop TSA cable lock more as a snatch & grab deterrent while traveling - either locking my suitcase to something on the train, or locking my backpack zippers while walking. I generally had an eye on my items, so the extra time to open the lock was enough.

[@rickjan5468]

What the hell. I just started traveling and was planning to use one of these locks for both my luggage as well as in hostels. Good to know I should get a better one, thanks!

[@giantdad1661]

It's actually illegal to use these to secure firearms. I've heard of TSA cutting your good locks off, and making your case unsecured.

[@tobiasreaper3650]

That is correct. These locks are designed to prevent theft, but not access. Due to the master key system, they do not want people securing firearms in that manner.

[@crscott9908]

@@tobiasreaper3650 That regulation has since been changed. For some incredibly stupid reason, it has been decided that TSA locks can be used to secure firearms. That may be due to how checked firearms are handled today than a few years ago. TSA and the airlines seem to be keeping a tighter rein on 'special' bags.

[@tobiasreaper3650]

@@crscott9908 it was the same for me a month ago. I'll look to see if anything has changed. If you have a handgun properly packaged inside of your regular checked luggage, they probably don't care if your only lock is a TSA lock on the external piece of luggage without anything on the handgun case on the inside. However full size gun cases need to be locked with normal padlocks (as far as I'm concerned). If there was a change, I'm guessing it's due to the absurd number of guns found in checkpoints, as well as improperly packaged, over the last year and a half.

[@crscott9908]

@@tobiasreaper3650 That hard side case inside the checked bag must be locked as well.

[@lukasperuzovic1429]

@@crscott9908 I though for firearms only the owner of the gun/luggage is to have the key, and TSA isn't allowed access

[@wyaldkingdom]

I stopped using luggage locks once I saw the video of how to open the zippers with a bic pen. And then they just zip it back up no problem. You would never know they opened it. Lol

[@joits]

same. and anything of great importance stays with me... if someone wants to open my luggage and steal my clothes from Target... well, they can have it!

[@innac_makes_things]

I remember when I flew back from my grandma's house, my grandma gave me a tsa lock to put on my luggage. I still have faint memories as a 7 year old of me picking open these locks with a paperclip.

[@nixand_brennt]

One of my coworkers uses a TSA lock on their locker, but this is _inside_ our secure (I hope lol) workplace and within sight of several people's desks, including the building supervisor. Probably not the best lock choice, but every time I see it I think about how important context is to security.

[@Steve_in_NJ]

I have a 4-lock set that I use JUST for my luggage! Never had an issue but I can see why you wouldn't want to use these locks at the gym!

[@steecheeful]

If this is your first lock picking lawyer video, he said “raked” not “raped”

[@flugenegu7777]

It's not my first video, but I wasn't paying full attention at that point and had to think for a second..

[@disklamer]

We all know what he meant.

[@darkfur18]

Should have titled this video the "TSA PSA"

[@hodoupmer]

so what i gather from binging a bunch of your videos is that *NO VALUABLES OUTSIDE OF MY SIGHT ARE EVER SLIGHTLY SAFE*

[@user-qd6jt9sd3h]

If someone takes your luggage there's really no lock that can keep them out

[@anthonymaster6160]

G’day. Is there any locks that you cannot open? Your knowledge, skills and intelligence are very impressive. Love every of your videos. Thank you.

[@DW94576]

I had one of these stuck to one of my bags, forgot the combo and lost the key. A simple rake and twist with a bobby pin and it popped right open! As simple as it was I was really proud of myself.

[@MarkMyWords531]

I haven’t flown for a few years. The last time we did I secured my luggage, as suggested, to keep it from falling open. We used TSA locks. Somebody, at TSA, was a butt munch and cut all of the TSA locks off of our luggage and toss them inside with a note saying locks were not allowed. Somebody must’ve been having a bad day and the only way they could feel better was to be a jerk.

[@HydroMaester]

Every-time I use TSA locks on my luggage they get cut off, and put back inside the luggage with a "We searched your luggage" note.

[@NomadUniverse]

Thanks for the heads up. I've been locking up my Ferarri with one.

[@lodevanballaer3303]

After watching this video I noticed that I have bought one of those locks. I did not know at the time what the keyway was for, I just thought it looked handy to lock up my bike to go for a drink during a bike ride. I also noticed you don't need a master key to open it. A flat screwdriver will also do the trick. You can even close it back up and it will still work.. I will be throwing this lock away and get myself a better one..

[@scottcol23]

Extremely Valuable PSA there. I have seen them used at my gym. My father worked TSA 20years ago and that sentry logo is super obvious to me. Because I remember him telling me why we needed TSA locks... Im going to slip a note with a link to this video into their lockers. I think ppl go to Walmart and see a pack of 4 locks that say Master on it for $5 and are like cool. I can get 4 master locks that's handy.

It'll work. I poked one guy at the gym who puts his expensive phone and watch into a gym locker with a combination lock. I told him those could be picked. Later I showed him how and showed him the video. He now comes in without a watch and puts a proper lock on the locker.

[@rootbeer666]

Heard so many stories of TSA cutting and breaking TSA locks...

[@Ratchetpower2]

TSA did that to my locks. Made me wonder why have locks at all.

[@1994CPK]

Those TSA guys are in a rush, they probably didn't look hard enough

[@jonahkulick6337]

I mean, if you’re stuck with one and didn’t feel like throwing it out, couldn’t you just super glue the keyhole shut? (For the number locks, obviously)

[@steele_heart77]

Me after getting all seven TSA master keys: *"I THINK I'M 'BOUT TO STEAL!!!"*

[@mewmew8932]

They had it comin'.

[@Star_II3S]

You have all the infini keys snap to remove all TSA locks

[@Mark-pl2qo]

I use a plastic cable tie when checking in bags. That keeps out honest people and lets me know if it was tampered with.

[@LITTLEDROK]

I have one of these locks on my back pack. It does the job as a deterrent but I am able to decode it with ease and I also found that just jamming a paper clip in it worked to open it very quickly. It is secure enough for my use case as all the people who've tried to open it have no clue how to do it so it can stop people from stealing pencils and stuff.

[@katfmb8362]

This channel has taught me that security is just an illusion

[@MrStatik2083]

As an IT professional, I always loved a friend’s remark that “locks are for honest people”. If someone really wants in, be it a locked door or cyber security - they will find a way. The trick is to maintain the illusion that there’s nothing worth taking (I.e. by not advertising what could easily be accessed) or to increase the difficulty as to dissuade most people who would try. Let’s take LPL’s example of TSA lock at a gym. Say 20% of the people there are the type who’d go through unlocked lockers and pick up anything interesting... 10% of those people will probably be thwarted by any method of locking the door, because either they lack skill, drive or confidence in bypassing the lock... they aren’t even going to attempt it. Another 5% might be bolder using master keys where they’d look like the legit owner using their key to open “their” security. Another 4% are confident (or don’t care) and would openly pick the lock as long as they could get at it. That last 1%. - those are the people who don’t care - they’ll destroy the lock to get to the locker and don’t care who knows about it before, during or after. Yet, just having a closed door works on 80% of the people... because they assume it’s either locked or there’s nothing behind the door that’s of concern to them. The problem being is those percentages get worse the more people are involved. It’s not so bad when you only worry about say 5% of the population of a gym. But when you’re online and dealing with the entire world? Yeah... there’s a lot of people in that last 5%

[@محمدالامريكي-ج9م]

Its like anything else, you're just making it harder not impossible.

[@danardalin]

So if the master key is so different from the profile of the actual keys... how do they work? And how do master keys in general work?

[@frag2k12]

So going by a standard pin and tumbler lock these types usually have a number of pins that determine the general security level, each of these pins is made up of two segments with one of these in each pin sitting half in the tumbler (sheer line) to prevent turning. Typically a lock which is made for master keys (such as apartment complexes) will have several of these pins with 3 sections, when the single lock key is used it might push these 'master pins' to a certain place (such as above the sheer line while the master key will instead have them below the sheer line. This allows the lock to be opened even if the key looks vastly different.

[@ciarangale4738]

my understanding is they make it in a manner that accepts both keys, likely having unnecessary parts to the non master key

[@panda4247]

and it also accepts any other key that has the same bitting as either of those keys. Let's say you have two keys: Normal: 136542 Master: 365436 The lock would accept any key that matches either of those positions. e.g. 335546, etc.

[@noodled6145]

PSA: Don't bother with a lock on your luggage, all suitcases can be opened with a pen or anything really.

[@anoan7964]

ye! how fix solution? any suicases with any locks, can opened with pen

[@daddylopz3100]

Lmao this is the most accurate comment in this entire section

[@idriveanagerar]

That’s why I pack anything of significant value in my pelican cases with locks. And it comes with me. If anyone wants to inspect my case I’m happy to unlock and open it for them to review in front of me. Otherwise clothing and other basics are the only checked luggage that goes out of sight for me. Anything important of valuable you always want within arms reach on board with you.

[@Migs3]

Excellent video. Thanks for taking the time to film and edit it and of course for positing it for our benefit. Keep up the good work! -Migs

[@ruanfernando]

I use those plastic clamps + wrapping the bag in plastic.If security needs they can easily open it and I'll be informed about it, and airport thieves won't cut through the plastic because it takes too long/leaves evidence. When landing in Brazil from the US, many luggage workers open and steal things from the bag.

[@jezzermeii]

May I ask why these 'TSA' locks exist? I am from the United Kingdom, so I haven't come across these before. Thanks to anyone who can help! :)

[@petermichaelgreen]

When you travel by air various authorities (security, customs etc) have the power to open your checked luggage (destructively if needed) to inspect it. The idea of the TSA locks is to keep thieves out while allowing the authorities (initially the US TSA but AIUI many other agencies in various countries have the keys now) to open the bag non-destructively for inspection. In practice it's all to easy to get the master keys and the locks are generally shitty little locks anyway, so only the most unprepared and/or time pressured of thieves will be stopped.

[@jezzermeii]

@@petermichaelgreen Thank you for explaining this for me, many thanks! :)

[@sockatume]

Watch out for that “TSA” logo on locks sold in the U.K. though, unless travelling to the USA. Loads of companies sell TSA-approved locks without making it clear what it means.

[@doomse150]

@@petermichaelgreen Their purpose isn't to protect your luggage against thieves, because it is in a protected area anyway, their main purpose is preventing the luggage open up on accident while it gets transported

[@AiMR]

So TSA agents can more easily steal your shit.

[@toydotgame]

The TSA007 keyway is pretty insecure. I frequently open TSA locks with just a bit of scrap metal.

[@jessicahearts2009]

This is why whenever I fly and am using a non tsa approved lock I always put weird shit in my suitcase like several furbies and a Nicholas Cage throw pillow. If they’re gonna break my lock they may as well get weirded out lol

[@echo_soldier]

I have to ask... did you get the Nicholas Cage throw pillow specifically for the suitcase, or did you just happen to have one?

[@neverforged]

When I was learning to pick locks, I picked up a 3 pack on my way to work one day just for practice (wanted to use paper clips). I made a torsion wrench, made a rake, inserted the torsion wrench, and the lock popped open before I even inserted the rake. TSA Locks are just fancy fasteners ;)

[@paige1925]

I use one of these at the gym but it's really just the appearance and so everyone knows the locker is taken. All my valuables are actually put somewhere safe

[@heyyou5189]

Any plastic luggage zipper can be breached with a pen. Bill did a video on this.

[@two_tier_gary_rumain]

@Rainbow Hyphen Not quite. You want hard shell luggage with zippers where the zipper handles are secured into a lock. This seems to be the best compromise. Even if the zippers get broken into, they can't be reclosed because the zipper handles are locked away. So they'd need a key or know the combination or know who to pick the lock to release the zipper handles.

[@spis_dritt]

These locks are so bad Walmart is giving them away for free. I just received three Master Lock TSA Combination locks in with my package today. Did not order them or pay for them.

[@JoeGarofaloII]

"...Right? Well, WRONG!" 🤣

[@radius50]

Most gym lockers can be opened with the luggage lock still on them. The shackles of the lock is so small that if you lift up the latch it will often travel far enough to open the locker before it hits the shackle

[@craigw1911]

I have a 4-digit combination lock with key code for TSA002 on it. I have a pair of flat tip tweezers that I can inset into the keyway and jiggle it to open it and lower the TSA entry which drops down the sleeve the shackle pushes into for locking. I can likewise re-lock it with the tweezers. Then I can repeat this all day to show that it was not a fluke.

[@Vaporded]

I’m a guitar player and I see the same red logo on my locking guitar cases, I assume those locks are about the same

[@revenevan11]

Yep, they are definitely at least vulnerable to the TSA masterkeys!

[@pilotbaxter007]

Put a tamper seal tag on the luggage too, so opening is evident regardless of your lock

[@tnpsheepdog3289]

Actually, there’s a tsa trick that allows you to get in through the zipper with a ballpoint pen.

[@sunshaker01]

@@tnpsheepdog3289 I wouldn't say that is a TSA trick I'd call that a thief trick.

[@pilotbaxter007]

Put a tell of some sort on the inside for when lid is opened

[@babablacksheep3950]

@@sunshaker01 is there any difference?

[@tnpsheepdog3289]

Baba Blacksheep Darn, beat me to it!

[@ryanurukalo4347]

Tsa doesn’t care if you have an approved 007 lock. I have personally bought 5 of them (approved tsa locks). Every single time I would travel with one, tsa was (I would suppose) too lazy to go and get the key, so they just break it. I have just stopped bothering and I just leave them unlocked

[@ThatWolfWithShades]

I've been using Non-TSA locks and they haven't ever bothered breaking the lock. Not once.

[@kiddhkane]

If TSA wasn't a terrorist (aka government) agency itself, they should pay you for the locks they broke.

[@digitig]

The bigger trouble with the whole system is that one's luggage isn't always in trusted hands when travelling. Theft by airport staff is rife in some parts of the world. The first time I went to India (35 years ago, pre-TSA-locks) my baggage went missing. It turned up a couple of days later, with the lock broken and stuff stolen from it, but customs would only release it to me if I signed a declaration that it *hadn't* been interfered with and that *nothing* had been stolen (so goodbye insurance claim). I've been back to India since, and they seem to have cleaned up their act, but those TSA locks must make it trivial for baggage thieves.

[@Ajbarili]

This was a very satisfying video to watch. I need a compilation that is just locks being opened.