One would have thought the telco's would have chosen decent security solutions to protect their equipment. Fair enough BT inherited most of their cab boxes with the triangular bolts from the GPO. However, BT's choice of security fastenings for their latest payphones leaves a lot to be desired, especially as they spent tens of millions of pounds updating their public payphones to increase security. The security tool used to open panels in their latest payphones can be bought by anyone for a couple of pounds. Even AT&T, New World Payphones and other recent payphone competitors use the same fastenings ;)

Cable suppliers tend to use higher security locks on their cab boxes, but these are still easy to defeat even though they use a cylindrical key.

Also, all of the telco's appear to have overlooked the determined phreaker who is prepared to open up a inspection point manhole cover to gain access ;)

A 13mm socket can be used to open any of the cab boxes with the triangular bolts. Alternatively, Eldon Boiler Supplies sell a security key that works. It's not a perfect fit, but it's near enough to be able to use.

RS Components also sell a multiple headed security tool with a triangular socket although I don't know if it is the correct size. A trip down to your local RS Trade counter might be in order to find out.

A set of security bits can be bought from Parker Tools, containing the 3mm security allen bit that is needed to open panels in public payphones. I believe Maplins are also selling these now. The security bit can be used with battery operated screwdrivers, allowing case panels to be opened in about 10 seconds flat ;)

All companies mentioned above have nationwide outlets, so look them up in your local yellow pages or BT business directory.

Decent lock picks can be bought from Bull Electrical in the UK. Some of their kits are expensive (genuine Swiss manufactured gear, lasts a lifetime) but are well worth the price. They are on the web, so do a search.

I've had a few emails regarding lock picking. Most people seem to think of it as being difficult and are put off by this. In reality, as long as you know how a lock works, and have a decent set of picks...it's quite easy to do given a bit of practice.

You can buy a padlock and a set of picks to allow you to practice your technique in the comfort of your own home. It's something worth learning. I'll eventually be posting a new section as to how locks work and how to pick them ;)