Kwikset smartkey locks are certified Grade 1 security for residential use by the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association and are advertised by Kwikset as being invulnerable to being hacked with wires, screwdrivers, or anything else inserted in the keyway.
Yes. The current version of SmartKey available in the market today is very secure. All SmartKey products, since its introduction in 2008, include patented technology not found in other pin and tumbler locks that help protect against two of the more common and undetectable attack methods, lock picking and lock bumping.
The overwhelming majority of these trained professionals can't do it. Even one of Kwikset's most vocal critics, Marc Weber Tobias (more on him in just a bit), told us that the SmartKey lock is virtually impossible to pick.
Although smart locks are generally more secure than standard locks, they're still vulnerable to hacking. This doesn't mean that you need to get rid of them or trade them in for standard locks—it just means that you should implement greater security measures.
The fact is this lock branded as the Smart Key lock is one of the most easiest locks for a criminal to break into your home. Using simple tools this lock can be broke into or hacked open with in seconds by just about anyone wanting to get into your home or business.
It protects against common break-in methods
Kwikset's SmartKey Security™ is designed to protect against these type of break-ins and keep your family safe. SmartKey Security™ also allows you to re-key the lock yourself in seconds, leaving lost or unreturned keys obsolete. Pick Resistant. Bump Proof. Re-Key Technology.
Also in the non-forced entry category, there is no doubt Schlage is better. With a better, more precise manufacturing process and 2 additional security pins than the Kwikset deadbolt, Schlage locks are significantly harder to pick, bump or compromise in non-destructive ways.
At the 2016 hacker convention known as DEF CON, presenters focused on the safety of smart locks. Representatives from Merculite Security tested 16 smart locks that relied on Bluetooth technology to operate. They found 75% of these locks had vulnerabilities that made them easy to hack.
Smart locks can be hacked. With any wireless technology, hacking is a risk and smart locks are no exception. However, if they are installed correctly, their software is kept up to date and you keep your passwords safe, then they are extremely difficult to hack.
A smart lock should allow the use of long passwords that are at least 16 characters in length. Smart locks that use shorter passwords are more vulnerable to brute force attacks from hackers. A brute force attack is one of the most popular methods of cracking passwords.
A Kwikset SmartKey tool (One should've came with your lock, but if not, you can buy one on Amazon). The new (or rather, old) key that you want to use instead. This must be a Kwikset key, as Kwikset and Schlage keys are totally different from one another (and won't work in each other's locks).
SmartKey is an advanced security breakthrough which allows you to rekey the lock in seconds. To rekey your lock with an entirely new key, simply insert the functioning key, turn a quarter turn clockwise, insert the learning tool, remove the existing key, and insert a new key. That's it!
How many times can I re-key my lock? Unlimited amount of times. All you need is the Smarkey Security tool.
Kwikset SmartKey is a security feature only available in Kwikset deadbolts, keyed entry knobs and keyed entry levers. Products with Kwikset SmartKey feature BumpGuard™ which uses a patented slide-locking bar mechanism inside of the lock to prevent lock bumping and other advanced home break-in techniques.
Even a 5- or 6-digit PIN is exponentially safer than a 4-digit code – as long as it's not 123456. From then on, the Lock Screen will show you the numeric keypad when it asks for your passcode. For ultimate safety, I recommend a password that's a combination of letters, numbers and symbols.
One common question is, are smart locks worth the investment? Overall, yes, smart locks have multiple advantages that are worth your investment. Despite having a relatively higher price than traditional deadbolts, smart locks are more convenient and they provide advanced security features that can keep your home safe.
Cons: Digital locks outfitted with Advanced Encryption Standard are quite secure, and most digital locks have built-in anti-theft alarms that will go off should someone try to tamper with the mechanism. That said, it is still possible for smart locks to be hacked.
Deadbolt door locks are the most secure type of key lock and are usually used on a home's exterior door. Available in single- and double-cylinder styles, deadbolts are rated according to their strength from Grade 1 to Grade 3. A Grade 1 is the highest grade and provides the most security.
All of Yale's smart locks have a security rating of ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 (Grade 1 is highest). They aren't as strong as the Schlage Connect, a Grade 1 lock, but are ideal for use in residential settings.
In comparison to other similar locks on the market, the Kwikset Kevo is reliable but expensive if you compare it to other locks in the same category. The Yale T1L, on the other hand, is a lot more competitively priced if you look at other similar types of smart door locks on the market.
Kwikset's door products offer reasonable quality, superior lock bumping technology, and attractive style. It is one of the most common residential locks on the market. Kwikset is headquartered in Orange County, California. It is a part of the Hardware and Home Improvement division of Spectrum Brands.
Kwikset currently has manufacturing facilities in Denison, Texas; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Mexicali, Mexico. Kwikset also has a facility in China.
First, insert the functioning key and turn it ¼-turn clockwise. Then, insert and remove the SmartKey learn tool. Follow by removing the functioning key, inserting a new key, and turning it ½-turn counter-clockwise. Your lock is then successfully re-keyed.