Holocrons may only be accessed by Force-sensitive beings, although the most basic do not require one to be a Force user. More complex devices can only be unlocked through the application of specific Force skills, and the most advanced of these further protect the valuable data by requiring the insertion of a crystal that was usually hidden or safe-guarded by the creator.
Basic holocron technology came from the Rakata people, but most information regarding the construction of these devices was lost with the fall of their ancient empire. Few, if any Force-sensitive crafters knowledgeable in holocron assembly remain. While the scarcity of holocrons makes them valuable, it is the potentially priceless information stored within that makes a holocron an invaluable artifact to acquire, even among those who may never unlock its secrets.