June 6, 2025
No Comments
10% off all Orders + Free Shipping
Big Sale Now!
Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds
- Use Coupon: BigSale2025
10% off all Orders + Free Shipping
If you need a duplicate key fob for your retail store, apartment, or office building, here are the main options:
A duplicate key fob is an exact copy of your existing radio-frequency identification credential that grants access to buildings, rooms, or parking areas. These small devices have revolutionized access control by replacing traditional keys with wireless technology that’s both convenient and manageable. Whether you need a backup for emergencies, additional access for employees, or a replacement for a lost credential, understanding your duplication options is essential for maintaining secure access without compromising your property’s security.
Key fobs operate using RFID technology, with a small microchip and antenna inside that communicates with your access control reader. When duplicating these devices, it’s important to know which type you have – low-frequency (125 kHz) fobs are easier to duplicate while high-frequency (13.56 MHz) fobs often have encryption that makes duplication more challenging.
I’m Brad Besner, founder of Security Camera King, and I’ve helped thousands of businesses implement and manage secure access control systems including duplicate key fob solutions for retail environments where employee turnover and credential management are critical security concerns.
Ever wonder what’s actually inside that little plastic fob dangling from your keychain? Despite their simple appearance, key fobs pack some pretty impressive technology that keeps our buildings secure and our lives convenient.
At their heart, key fobs use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology – a wireless conversation between your credential and the reader at the door. When you tap or wave your fob, this invisible dialogue happens in a split second, determining whether you’re allowed in or staying out in the cold!
Your key fob likely falls into one of two main categories:
Passive RFID Fobs are the workhorses of building access. These clever little devices don’t even need their own power source – they actually harvest energy from the reader itself when you hold them nearby! This makes them compact, lightweight, and budget-friendly, though it limits their read range to just a few inches from the reader.
Active RFID Fobs, on the other hand, come with their own built-in battery. This self-contained power gives them impressive read ranges – sometimes up to 300 feet! You’ll typically find these in vehicle access scenarios like parking garages, where the reader needs to detect your credential while your car is still approaching.
Not all fobs are created equal, and the frequency they operate on makes a big difference in both security and whether you can make a duplicate key fob:
Low-Frequency (LF) 125 kHz fobs are the veterans of access control, dating back to the 1980s. They’re like the friendly old security guard who knows everyone by name – simple and reliable, but perhaps a bit too trusting. These legacy credentials typically store a basic serial number without encryption, making them relatively straightforward to duplicate. Common examples include HID ProxCard and AWID formats that are still widely used in many buildings.
High-Frequency (HF) 13.56 MHz fobs represent the modern approach to access security. Think of them as the digital-age security team with advanced protocols and safeguards. These credentials incorporate various encryption methods that make unauthorized duplication significantly more challenging. Varieties like MIFARE Classic, DESFire, and iCLASS offer substantially improved protection against cloning attempts.
Near Field Communication (NFC) takes RFID to the next level. While standard RFID is a one-way street (credential talks, reader listens), NFC enables a two-way conversation between devices. This creates possibilities for more sophisticated security protocols and opens the door to turning your smartphone into your credential – no physical fob needed!
Inside each fob, you’ll find a microchip that stores your unique credential data, an antenna coil that transmits signals, and a durable plastic housing protecting these delicate components. While designs vary widely, from sleek corporate badges to colorful apartment keychains, the underlying technology remains remarkably consistent.
For business owners and property managers, understanding these technical differences isn’t just interesting – it’s essential for making smart security decisions. At Security Camera King, we offer a variety of Access Control Cards to match different security needs and budgets.
Security experts have raised concerns about how easy duplicate key fob creation has become for older systems. Industry research shows that cloning a basic 125 kHz proximity credential can cost as little as $25 at a self-service kiosk, making unauthorized duplication a genuine concern for buildings using legacy technology. This affordability of cloning technology is documented in research from Security Info Watch, highlighting why many facilities are upgrading to more secure options.
Understanding what type of fob you currently use is the first step in assessing your security vulnerability and determining whether upgrades might be necessary to protect your property.
Let’s face it – we’ve all been there. That moment of panic when you realize your key fob isn’t in your pocket, or the frustration of coordinating access for family members and employees. Creating a duplicate key fob isn’t just about convenience; it’s often a practical necessity in our modern world.
Having a spare credential can be a lifesaver when you’re locked out of your building at 11 PM on a Friday night. Many of our customers create backups specifically to avoid these stressful situations, especially for essential access points they use daily.
Families and roommates often need multiple access credentials for shared spaces. Instead of playing the “who has the fob” game, duplicating provides everyone the independence they need without compromising security. Similarly, business owners find that providing employees with their own credentials streamlines operations and eliminates bottlenecks at entry points.
Need to give the dog walker temporary access while you’re on vacation? Or perhaps contractors need limited entry to complete a project? A duplicate key fob offers a perfect solution without handing over your primary credential. Many property managers also appreciate having duplicates for gated parking facilities, ensuring residents and visitors can enter secured areas without hassle.
Before you rush off to duplicate that fob, let’s talk about the legal side of things. Generally speaking, if you own the fob or have permission to copy it, you’re on solid ground. However, the devil’s in the details:
Many building management companies have specific policies regarding duplication – some prohibit it entirely, while others require all copies to be made through official channels. Your lease agreement might also contain clauses about credential management that could affect your right to duplicate.
Local regulations vary widely, with some jurisdictions having specific laws governing access control systems, particularly for multi-unit dwellings. Always check your lease, building policies, and local regulations before proceeding with duplication to avoid potential complications.
While creating a duplicate key fob for legitimate personal use is typically legal, doing so without proper authorization or for fraudulent purposes could land you in hot water. When in doubt, a quick conversation with your property manager can save headaches down the road.
Not all fobs are created equal, and compatibility issues can throw a wrench in your duplication plans. Different buildings use different fob models, and not all duplication services can handle every type. Before attempting to duplicate, verify that your service provider can work with your specific model.
Encryption presents another hurdle – highly encrypted fobs may be impossible to duplicate without manufacturer authorization. Modern security systems often employ sophisticated encryption that resists unauthorized copying, a feature that protects building security but can complicate legitimate duplication efforts.
Some access systems regularly update their firmware, potentially rendering older duplicated fobs incompatible after updates. Additionally, many buildings program their systems to accept only fobs issued directly by management, which means your duplicate might not work even if perfectly copied.
For businesses looking to manage access control more effectively, Security Camera King offers a comprehensive range of Access Control Accessories designed to work with various credential types and security levels.
While duplicating key fobs provides undeniable convenience, it’s worth remembering that each copy potentially creates a security vulnerability. We always recommend having a conversation with your property management or security team before proceeding. After all, the goal isn’t just easy access – it’s maintaining the security that these systems were designed to provide in the first place.
Need a duplicate key fob but not sure where to start? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Whether you’re looking for a backup in case of emergencies or need an extra for a family member, there are several ways to get that extra credential in your pocket.
Have you noticed those futuristic-looking machines at your local shopping center or hardware store? These self-service kiosks have revolutionized key duplication, making it as easy as using an ATM.
For just $25-30, you can have a duplicate key fob in your hand in under 5 minutes—no appointment necessary! These kiosks are perfect if you need a copy outside regular business hours or want to avoid the hassle of visiting a specialist.
The downside? They’re primarily designed for basic, low-frequency 125 kHz fobs. If you have a high-security encrypted fob, you might be out of luck with this option.
If kiosks aren’t available in your area, mail-in services offer a convenient alternative. Simply send your original fob to the service provider, and they’ll create and ship back your duplicate key fob.
This option handles a wider range of fob types and is often more affordable than a locksmith. However, you’ll be without your original for several days, which can be problematic if it’s your only way to access your building. Success rates vary considerably—research shows only about 45% success with complex fobs like Mifare Classic 4K.
For high-security or complex fobs, a professional locksmith might be your best bet. Yes, they’re more expensive ($150-500 depending on complexity), but they offer expertise that machines simply can’t match.
Modern locksmiths have specialized equipment and can often duplicate your fob on-site, meaning you don’t have to surrender your original. Their success rates are significantly higher for complex fobs, and they can provide valuable advice about your access control system.
For the tech-savvy among us, DIY duplication can be both fun and practical. RFID copying devices range from $30 to $200 and allow you to make duplicates whenever needed.
This approach gives you complete privacy—no sharing your credentials with third parties—and immediate results. However, it does require some technical knowledge, and most consumer-grade copiers can only handle unencrypted or lightly encrypted fobs.
| Method | Cost | Turnaround | Success Rate | Encryption Capability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Service Kiosk | $25-30 | 5 minutes | High for basic fobs | Low (125 kHz only) |
| Mail-In Service | $35-100 | 3-7 days | 45-90% depending on type | Medium |
| Professional Locksmith | $150-500 | Same day | 70-95% | Medium to High |
| DIY RFID Copier | $30-200 for device | Immediate | Variable | Low to Medium |
For businesses looking for authorized replacement options, we offer the DX Series 125kHz Access Control Key Fob Black, which provides reliable credentials programmable to your system’s specifications.
Using a self-service kiosk is surprisingly simple! Here’s how to get your duplicate key fob in just a few minutes:
First, find a kiosk that specifically supports RFID duplication (brands like KeyMe or MinuteFob are common). Make sure your original fob is clean and working properly before you start.
When you’re at the kiosk, simply follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll tap your original fob on the designated scanner area, and the machine will attempt to read its data. Most kiosks require scanning your ID or credit card for security purposes—this helps prevent unauthorized duplication.
Next, you’ll select your preferred blank fob style—whether that’s a standard fob, card format, or even a key-shaped RFID device. After paying (usually by credit card), the kiosk will dispense your new duplicate key fob right there on the spot!
Before you leave, it’s always smart to test your new fob at all relevant access points. The whole process typically takes less than 5 minutes—perfect for our busy lives!
If you’re the hands-on type who enjoys a little tech project, creating your own duplicate key fob can be both satisfying and convenient.
To get started, you’ll need to purchase a compatible RFID copier that supports your fob’s frequency (typically 125 kHz for most basic building fobs). You’ll also need blank tags or fobs, which come in various formats—traditional key fobs, cards, or even adhesive stickers that can be attached to phones.
The duplication process is straightforward: power on the copier, select the “Read” function, and hold your original fob close to the device until you get confirmation (usually a beep or light). Then switch to “Write” mode, hold the blank fob near the device, and wait for confirmation that the data has been successfully copied.
Always test your newly created duplicate to ensure it functions correctly before relying on it!
DIY duplication should only be performed on fobs you legally own, and be aware that some building policies may prohibit self-duplication. Always read your device instructions carefully to avoid damaging your original fob.
Trying to decide between calling a pro or going the DIY route? Let’s break it down to help you choose.
Professional services offer peace of mind with higher success rates—typically 70-95% overall. Locksmiths have access to specialized equipment designed to handle encrypted fobs, plus they carry professional liability insurance if something goes wrong. Their knowledge of various fob types means they can often troubleshoot issues that might leave DIYers scratching their heads.
On the flip side, DIY methods give you immediate results without having to schedule appointments or wait for mail delivery. There’s also the privacy factor—some folks simply aren’t comfortable handing over their access credentials to strangers. Plus, if you’re making multiple duplicates over time, that one-time investment in equipment might save you money in the long run.
When it comes to complex fobs like the Mifare Classic 4K, even professionals have a documented success rate of only around 45%, while DIY methods typically fare even worse due to encryption challenges. It’s worth considering how critical access is to your daily routine before choosing the budget option.
At Security Camera King, we understand the importance of reliable access control. While we support legitimate duplication for backup purposes, we also believe in maintaining building security through proper credential management. If you’re unsure which approach is best for your situation, our team is always happy to offer guidance custom to your specific needs.
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – as handy as duplicate key fobs can be, they do raise some serious security questions. After all, if you can make a copy of your fob, what’s stopping someone else from doing the same?
The main security challenge is pretty straightforward: most readers can’t tell the difference between your original fob and a clone. It’s like having identical twins – even their mother might mix them up sometimes! This creates several concerning scenarios:
When someone creates an unauthorized copy, they can enter your building without leaving any trace. Unlike traditional keys that might show physical signs of being duplicated, cloned fobs are perfect digital copies that work exactly like the originals.
Even more concerning is what happens after someone returns their official credential. If they’ve made secret copies beforehand, they could still have access to your building long after you think you’ve locked them out. And let’s not forget how easy duplication makes credential sharing – that fob meant for one person could end up being used by several, completely undermining your access tracking system.
Perhaps most worrying is the “borrow and return” scenario. Someone could temporarily take your fob during lunch, make a duplicate, and return it before you even notice it was gone.
In short – not really, at least not directly. Here’s why:
Standard access systems face a fundamental challenge: a duplicated fob sends exactly the same signal as the original. To your reader, they’re completely identical. Most readers are designed simply to check if a credential is valid, not to authenticate the physical device itself.
While your system can log when and where credentials are used, it typically can’t tell if the same credential is showing suspicious usage patterns without some extra analysis. It’s like trying to figure out if someone else is using your Netflix account just by looking at viewing history.
Some cleverer systems can spot potential duplication through indirect means:
They might flag unusual patterns – like your fob being used at the main entrance and the parking garage simultaneously (unless you’ve mastered teleportation!).
Anti-passback features require credentials to follow a logical sequence – entry, then exit – before allowing reuse, making it harder to share credentials.
The gold standard is multi-factor authentication, combining your fob with something else like a PIN code or fingerprint scan to ensure the authorized person is actually present.
If you’re managing a property or worried about security, here are some practical steps to prevent unauthorized duplicate key fobs:
Upgrade to high-frequency encrypted fobs that use 13.56 MHz technology with sophisticated encryption (like MIFARE DESFire). These are significantly harder to duplicate than the older 125 kHz versions.
Don’t rely on fobs alone – implement a secondary verification method like a PIN code or biometric scan. It’s the security equivalent of wearing both a belt and suspenders!
Conduct regular credential audits to verify that all active fobs belong to authorized users. This helps catch any “ghost” credentials that might be floating around.
When fobs are reported lost or stolen, deactivate them immediately in your system. Every minute counts when security is compromised.
Consider providing RFID-blocking sleeves for fobs when not in use. These simple protective covers prevent covert scanning of credentials.
Periodically reissue credentials with updated encryption or formats. This automatically renders any unauthorized duplicates useless, like changing the locks on your doors.
Establish clear policies about credential duplication and make sure everyone understands the consequences of violations. Sometimes the best security is simply having clear rules.
The short answer is increasingly “yes” – and for good reason! The security industry is rapidly moving toward mobile credentials as a smarter alternative to physical key fobs.
Your smartphone already has advanced security features built in – think fingerprint readers, facial recognition, and PIN codes. Mobile credentials leverage these existing security layers while adding their own encryption, making them significantly harder to clone than physical fobs.
One of the biggest advantages is remote management. Need to give someone access? You can issue a mobile credential instantly without any physical handoff. Need to revoke access? It can be done with a few clicks, even if the person is on the other side of the country.
Let’s be honest – you’re much more likely to notice if your $1,000 smartphone goes missing than a small key fob. And you’re probably already in the habit of keeping your phone secure.
Mobile access typically works through one of several technologies:
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) allows for convenient hands-free access at greater distances – perfect for driving into parking garages without rolling down your window.
Near Field Communication (NFC) requires you to hold your phone near the reader, similar to using a traditional fob or making a contactless payment.
QR Codes displayed on your phone can be scanned at entry points – simple but effective for many applications.
At Security Camera King, we offer modern Access Control Readers that support both traditional credentials and mobile access solutions. This gives you flexibility to transition gradually as your needs evolve.
The latest research on frictionless biometrics shows we’re heading toward a future where you might not need to take anything out of your pocket at all – your unique biological signatures could be all you need to gain access while maintaining top-level security.
Creating a duplicate key fob can be a practical solution for many access control challenges – from giving family members building access to ensuring you have a backup for those “locked out at midnight” moments we’ve all experienced. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the technology behind these little access wizards, the various ways to duplicate them, important security considerations, and what the future holds.
Before you rush off to make copies of your fob, let’s review what we’ve learned together. First, know your technology – whether you have a low-frequency (125 kHz) or high-frequency (13.56 MHz) fob makes all the difference in which duplication methods will work. Those self-service kiosks might be convenient, but they won’t help with a sophisticated encrypted fob!
When it comes to duplication options, you’ve got choices ranging from quick-and-easy kiosks to professional locksmith services. Your budget, timeline, and technical comfort level will guide which path makes the most sense for your situation.
Always remember the legal and ethical side of things. Just because you can duplicate a fob doesn’t always mean you should. Check your lease agreement or building policies before proceeding – your property manager might have strong feelings about unauthorized copies floating around!
The security implications are real. Those legacy fobs that duplicate easily represent a vulnerability that property managers should address through upgraded technology. And speaking of upgrades, mobile credentials are increasingly replacing physical key fobs altogether, offering improved security and one less thing to forget on your way out the door.
Whether you’re managing an apartment building or just trying to keep your own access organized, these best practices will help maintain security while enjoying the convenience of duplicate credentials:
Keep track of all your duplicates – know how many copies exist and who has them. Regularly review who has access and don’t hesitate to deactivate credentials that are no longer needed. If a fob goes missing, report it immediately so it can be deactivated before it falls into the wrong hands.
If you’re still using older low-frequency systems, it might be time to consider upgrading to more secure high-frequency encrypted credentials. And remember, duplicate key fobs should be just one component of your overall security strategy – the more layers, the better.
At Security Camera King, we understand the delicate balance between security and convenience that modern access control requires. We’re not just selling products – we’re helping you solve real security challenges.
We offer high-quality access credentials like the DX Series 125kHz Access Control Key Fob Black for authorized replacements when you need them. Our advanced readers work with both traditional fobs and mobile credentials, giving you flexibility as technology evolves.
Our team in Boca Raton, FL provides friendly, knowledgeable support to help you steer the sometimes confusing world of access control. Whether you’re struggling with key fob programming, considering system upgrades, or just need advice on security best practices, we’re here to help – no security jargon or technical intimidation.
The world of access control is changing rapidly, with new technologies emerging to address the security vulnerabilities of traditional credentials. While duplicate key fobs serve an important purpose today, forward-thinking organizations are already planning their transition to more secure, flexible access solutions.
By understanding both the capabilities and limitations of key fob duplication, you can make informed decisions that balance convenience and security for your home or business. The most effective access control system isn’t necessarily the most expensive or complicated – it’s the one that’s properly managed, regularly updated, and thoughtfully implemented.
For personalized guidance on your access control needs, reach out to our security experts at Security Camera King. We’re real people who understand real security challenges, and we’re committed to helping you find the right solution for your unique situation – without the upsell or technical overwhelm you might find elsewhere.
Copyright © 2014-2025 SecurityCameraKing.com, All rights reserved
Privacy Policy | Shipping Info | Return Policy | Terms & Conditions
