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Which Type of Physical Access Control Addresses the Risk of Piggybacking


Physical security relies heavily on preventing unauthorized access. One of the most difficult risks is piggybacking. This is when a stranger trails behind an authorized person in order to gain access. This is where commercial locksmith services from Sure Lock & Key come in. Our team of professionals will evaluate your facility's specific requirements and offer the finest access control solution for your location. Don't leave your security to chance. Contact Sure Lock & Key today for ultimate security!

Let’s look at the access mechanisms that keep unauthorized people out while granting a smooth and uninterrupted working process for those who do have authorized access. Read on!

Optical Turnstiles for Tailgating Prevention


Optical turnstiles solve the problem of piggybacking in physical entry control. These high-tech solutions mix appearance and technological substance to create a significant barrier to access. Unlike mechanical turnstiles, optical turnstiles employ sensors and beams to detect and monitor persons going through. They know the difference between an authorized user and a piggybacker.
The invisible detecting zone is the key component of optical turnstiles. When an authorized person approaches with their access credential, the system verifies their identification and allows them through. At the same time, it monitors the area behind the authorized individual. If a second individual attempts to follow closely without a valid credential, the system recognizes the unauthorized movement immediately.
Optical turnstiles can respond in various ways when a piggybacking attempt is detected. Some models have physical barriers that deploy quickly to block the unauthorized person.
Optical Turnstiles for Tailgating Prevention
Others trigger audible alarms, notify security personnel, or activate integrated cameras to capture evidence of the intrusion attempt. This multi-layered approach not only prevents unauthorized access but also deters.
Modern optical turnstiles can seamlessly integrate with access control systems, including card readers, biometric scanners, and centralized security management platforms. This integration makes overall security more robust by creating a data-driven approach to access control that can adapt to changing threats and business needs.
Optical Turnstiles for Tailgating Prevention

Biometric Access Control


Biometric Access Control systems are the answer to the problem of piggybacking. They use unique physical characteristics to verify who you are. Unlike key cards or PINs, which can be shared or stolen, biometric data is personal and hard to replicate, so it’s a great defense against piggybacking.
Common biometric technologies are fingerprint scanners, retinal or iris recognition, facial recognition, and vein pattern analysis. These systems capture and compare your biometric data to a pre-registered profile so only authorized people can enter. Biometric systems are beneficial in preventing piggybacking in a variety of ways:
  • One-to-One Matching: Each attempt requires a direct match to a specific person.
  • Non-Transferable Credentials: Biometric information is not transferable, unlike key cards or access codes.
  • Speed and Efficiency: Contemporary biometric systems can process and validate identities quickly, making tailgating during the entering process less likely.
  • Integration: Turnstiles and mantrap systems are additional security measures that can be paired with biometric systems.
Biometric Access Control System
Biometric access systems should also be implemented correctly and maintained regularly to prevent piggybacking effectively. Sure Lock & Key can handle all your setup and maintenance requests with a comprehensive range of commercial locksmith services available day and night.
  • Audit Trails: These systems maintain thorough logs of every access attempt to help you look into potential security breaches.
Biometric Access Control System

Summing Up


Piggybacking is a problem that most business spaces have dealt with at least once. At this point, access control systems have become an integral part of every huge company. Still, business owners face a difficult task when it comes to selecting a system, which will become a “win-win” strategy in a piggybacking fight. Sure Lock & Key knows the struggle of weighing all the pros and cons. That’s why we will be more than glad to assist you. With our help, you will acquire the best possible access control system for your business needs. You will also get an unparalleled installation service and expert checkup. Contact us now, we are available 24 hours a day, throughout the year and we will be happy to assist you regarding any Locksmithing or Security issues.

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Is biometric lock safe

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