These instructions will allow you to craft a proof-of-concept device to defeat the security measures on most models of Scott toilet paper dispensers. The same concept can be adapted to most paper product dispensers in use throughout most of the world. I do not condone the wholesale theft of toilet paper, but sometimes it gets jammed up in there, and the little flap that supposedly switches between rolls doesn't work. And anyway, you have to ask yourself, is it really possible to steal toilet paper as long as you plan on using it to wipe with?

Method of Operation of Scott Toilet Tissue Dispenser Security Mechanism

The Scott Paper Product Dispenser is a wall-mounted, clamshell-opening, dual-roll toilet tissue dispenser. The hinged half (the smoked polycarbonate "front" panel) is secured by a spring-tensioned "peg and claw" type fastener. The prescribed method of opening is direct mechanical actuation with a key. The "claw" is a two-piece, horizontally symmetrical, hook-tipped tension claw, and is contained within the lock housing on the wall-mounted (opaque grey PVC) half, The peg is integrally molded onto the hinged panel.

When the hinged front panel is closed, the integral peg engages the spring-tensioned claw and is locked into place. The hooked ends prevent the peg from moving outwards and there is insufficient lateral "give" of the hinge to wiggle the peg loose. The hook tips and spring tension on the claws prevent simple tugging or wiggling from disengaging the mechanism.

A "T" shaped skeleton key is inserted into the irregular lozenge-shaped keyhole in the wall-mounted half. When the key is rotated, the arms of the key spread the claws to disengage the peg and allow the hinged half to swing free.

Methods of Defeat

Most Scott dispensers are dual-roll and have a small "flap" that is movable by the user to select the opposite roll if the first has run out. On some models, it is possible to access the locking mechanism with no tools in the event that one of the rolls is either missing or small enough through depletion to fit one's hand and lower arm up through the opening. To do this, toggle the flap to access the appropriate side and reach up into the dispenser. If the center divider does not prevent you from reaching the tips of the claws on the locking device, pull gently with your free hand on the front panel while spreading the claws slowly and gently from the inside. The easiest way is to use one finger on each claw, usually the index and middle finger. Be careful to perform this operation slowly, since it is very possible to pinch your fingers or arm between the panels while opening, or attempting to open it.

If the dispenser in question has a taller center divider, two full rolls, or is of a different make entirely, a serviceable key can be fashioned from readily available materials. Anything may be used, but I usually use a plastic card from my wallet that I don't need or don't use, such as a supermarket rewards card. Cards can even be kept functional in some cases, such as a plastic insurance or towing club card without a magnetic strip. The simple "T" key can be cut into the card with very little effort. I used a supermarket card and a pocket knife while sitting in the stall. The measurements for a key that fits most Scott dispensers are as follows:

            \   SIDE | LENGTH (CM)
      __    /      A | 1.6
     |  |_C_\      B | 0.8
  A  |   ___/      C | ~1.5
     |__|   \
      B     /

These measurements are for reference only. They may need to be eyeballed for the particular model in question. This concept is used with slight variation for a large number of tissue dispensers in common use. Many do not require a "T", and can be opened with a coin. Several brands of paper towel dispensers use single-tab, post shaped keys that greatly resemble, and in some cases are identical to, Smith & Wesson type handcuff keys. Be aware of laws in your area that may prohibit carrying handcuff keys or shims.