Notice Board
Pick. Hack. Protect.
The Aussie Chef Turned Lockpicker Who Took Security to the Next Level
» WE HAD THE GREAT PLEASURE OF interviewing James Gillet from Ballarat, Victoria, Australia- a former chef who swapped his kitchen knives for lockpicks, and later, hacking tools …
James is the founder of Dark Arts Lock Picking( DALP), a company hired by organisations across Australia to legally test security systems. By breaking into buildings and networks with permission, he identifies vulnerabilities before criminals can exploit them. His work highlights the importance of bridging the gap between physical and digital security through hands-on training and education.
Time for a Change
James Gillet’ s journey into the world of security began with personal loss. While working 12 – 14-hour shifts as a chef in one of Ballarat’ s top restaurants, the passing of his nan marked a profound turning point.
“ Cooking just didn’ t feel the same anymore,” he reflects. It was during this period of transition that a YouTube video caught his attention, one that would change everything.
The Chef Who Broke into Cybersecurity
What began as a lockpicking hobby quickly evolved into a mission. James and his team are now trusted professionals who perform legal break-ins and run workshops and presentations on physical entry methods and cybersecurity. As a self-proclaimed“ legal criminal,” James helps organisations stay one step ahead of real-world threats, proving that modern security requires a blend of old-school technique and digital know-how.
From Lock to Laptop: The DALP Origin Story
The video featured renowned lockpicker Bosnian Bill skilfully bypassing a lock, and James was instantly hooked. He ordered a cheap set of picks off eBay and began practicing obsessively.
“ I remember that moment like it was yesterday,” he says.“ I clicked the pin, and the lock opened, it was like magic. I couldn’ t stop after that.”
What started as a hobby quickly grew into an obsession. In 2017, James launched Dark Arts Lock Picking( DALP), initially just a YouTube channel sharing techniques and
reviews. With the support of his colleague Darryl, who brought advanced digital expertise to the table, DALP evolved into a business built on protecting both physical and digital systems.
Today, it’ s one of Australia’ s largest nondestructive entry and cybersecurity platforms, offering tools, training, and guidance to professionals across the country.
“ I’ m proud to help people understand just how connected physical and digital security really are,” James says.“ Education and knowledge are power for security.”
James’ Motto:“ Keep It Bloody Legal”
James emphasises the importance of legality in his work. His motto and hashtag,“# KeepItBloodyLegal,” defines his approach: everything is done by the book, with contracts in place, and only those who hire him and his team know when he’ s testing a system. Whether it’ s lockpicking or bypassing high-tech security systems, James’ s work always adheres to ethical standards.“ I know I’ m a‘ legal criminal’ in some eyes, but to me, it’ s all about helping people stay safe without crossing any lines,” he says.
8
AUGUST 2025
locksmithjournal. co. uk Issue Takeover