Shift Bypass Key (Access 2000)

Topic

New Reply

If I turn the shift bypass key off through code, then how as the administrator do I leave myself a back door in an automated database?

Reply | Quote

Replies

I easiest and simpliest way is not to add the code to the app. Instead use a remote database designed specifically for this pupose. You keep a copy of this application on your development machine and you set and unset the shift key property “at will’. The app is small enough to fit on a diskette so you can set the property by using the diskette if you are away from your machine. If you would like a copy of this .. let me know and I will email you a copy. I assume you want the Access 2000/2002 version. I have an Access 97 version and Access 2000/20002 version.

HTH
RDH

Reply | Quote

Let me just attach it to the post and save us all the trouble of emails.

I need to add code to the app to detect if the database you want to set the “ShiftKey” property has a password. Currently it will not set the property if it is password protected. I just can’t seem to find the time to alter the app. I built this application for my personal use, but you are welcome to use it and alter it in any way you see fit.

The version I attached will open in Access 2000 or 2002 but will set the property for Access 97 also.

RDH

Reply | Quote

There are some simple methods. One is to put a small transparent button on your main menu form in a location you can remember but others aren’t likely to stumble upon. Behind that button, you put the code to unhide the database window. I use this a lot in apps that don’t have to be terribly secure but do have to keep curious users from shooting themselves in the foot.

Another method is to use Access security and have code that tests the user and either allows or disallows the bypass key based on the current user.

Still another method is to use a command line argument when you open Access as the administrator. In the startup code for your application, you use the Command() function to retrieve the value of any command line arguments and test that value against something you’ve decided on, say “DEV_MODE ON”. If that argument was passed, you enable the bypass key or unhide the database window or whatever you need to do.

Reply | Quote

Thanks guys. You’ve all given me some great ideas.

Reply | Quote

Stephen,
Here is another example for you to look at.
It disables the bypass startup, F11, and closing Access unless you use the exit button on the form.
This is in Access97 but converts to 2K without any problems.
HTH,
Scott

Reply | Quote