Computer scientists from UCSD have come up with a method which allows keys to be duplicated from a long-distance photograph of the keys. Using software called Sneakey, the scientists were able to accurately measure the key cuts and use this information to create a duplicate key.
Having worked with locks and keys before, I can say that while this development makes for an interesting computer problem to solve, it isn’t all that practical from a criminal’s point of view. There are far, far easier ways of gaining entry to a home or building: keys can be borrowed and pressed into a wax mold, the lock could be picked, or the door could be bypassed all together by breaking a window. And who leaves their keys in plain view where they can be photographed by outsiders?
The software likely can’t handle commercial keys like those for Medeco locks. Each cut of a Medeco key has an angled groove. If that groove doesn’t line up with the ridge in its corresponding pin the lock does not open. Thus, there are three dimensions which would need to be captured in order to correctly measure such a key. Its unlikely a photographer could get into a position in which she could accurately photograph these grooves.
Interesting problem to solve, but not exactly practical.