DC831
Physical Security Workshops & Research • Monterey Bay
Join Us on Meetup — Coming SoonDon't use Meetup? Email hello@dc831.io for event updates.
2026-2027 Events
Hands-on workshops, February through February
Lock Picking Fundamentals
Learn lock picking basics in a hands-on workshop.
No experience needed. All equipment provided.
We'll have progressive training locks and Sparrows pick sets available for use during the event.
Full Event Series
Lock Picking Fundamentals
Basic pin tumbler locks, progressive locks, first pick success
Security Pins Workshop
Spool pins, serrated pins, understanding feedback
Raking & Wafer Locks
Speed techniques and non-pin-tumbler locks
A Locksmith's Perspective
Guest SpeakerGuest speaker, real-world experience, Q&A
DEF CON 34 (Las Vegas)
ConferenceMembers encouraged to attend • Register at defcon.org
Lock Bypassing Workshop
Shimming, design flaws, non-picking entry methods
Lock Picking Championship
Speed competition with prizes, year-end celebration
One-Year Anniversary
Research showcase, community celebration, Year 2 launch
New to lock picking? Join us anytime! Arrive 30 minutes early to your first event for a quick introduction.
About DC831
Physical Security Focus
DC831 is Monterey Bay's physical security group.
We focus on locks, doors, badges, and access control systems - the physical layer that protects everything else.
Year 1: Lock Picking Research
We're starting with lock picking because it's hands-on, accessible, and teaches security thinking. Over 12 months, we're studying how people learn lock picking, measuring skill retention and security awareness impact.
Year 2+: Community-Driven Physical Security
After Year 1, members vote on our research direction:
- RFID & badge cloning
- Smart lock vulnerabilities
- Water utility security
- Access control bypass
- Door hardware weaknesses
- Critical infrastructure protection
Guest Speakers
Throughout the year, we host guest speakers on physical security and broader security topics that interest our community - from locksmiths and red team operators to IoT security and social engineering.
Common Questions
Why lock picking?
Physical security IS security. Lock picking teaches security thinking: find weaknesses, exploit responsibly.
Need experience?
No! We provide all equipment and teach from basics. Arrive 30 min early for help.
What equipment do you provide?
We have progressive training locks and quality pick sets for use during events. You don't need to bring anything. Want your own kit? We can recommend starter sets.
Is this legal?
Yes. We only pick locks we own, for educational purposes. We teach responsible disclosure and ethical research.
Will you teach me to break in?
No. We teach how security works so people can BUILD better security, not break it.
Want to be a guest speaker?
We're always looking for speakers on physical security, IoT, social engineering, and related topics. Reach out at hello@dc831.io