When is it acceptable to change a combination?

When is it acceptable to change a combination?

• A. After a certain period
• B. On a fixed schedule
• C. When a number is forgotten
• D. When a lock is taken out of service

Answer: (D)

In access control, changes to a lock’s combination should align with the lock’s status. If a lock is being taken out of service, it’s the right time to change its combination (or retire the lock) to prevent any previously issued codes or keys from granting entry. This creates a clear security boundary: once the lock is no longer in use, old credentials won’t work, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Changing on a fixed schedule or after a certain period isn’t tied to a concrete risk, so it can cause unnecessary disruption without improving security. If someone forgets a number, the proper response is to verify identity and reissue access as needed, rather than simply changing the combination. When the lock is being retired, though, changing the combination is the sensible step to maintain security until the lock is removed.

In access control, changes to a lock’s combination should align with the lock’s status. If a lock is being taken out of service, it’s the right time to change its combination (or retire the lock) to prevent any previously issued codes or keys from granting entry. This creates a clear security boundary: once the lock is no longer in use, old credentials won’t work, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Changing on a fixed schedule or after a certain period isn’t tied to a concrete risk, so it can cause unnecessary disruption without improving security. If someone forgets a number, the proper response is to verify identity and reissue access as needed, rather than simply changing the combination. When the lock is being retired, though, changing the combination is the sensible step to maintain security until the lock is removed.