Millions of Kwikset Smartkey Locks Vulnerable to Hacking, Say Researchers. Millions of Kwikset smartkey locks used to secure residences can easily be thwarted with a screwdriver or wire, despite the company's claims that special features of the lock prevent anything other than a key from being inserted in the lock.
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.
Not only can many smart locks be hacked, but they also are proven to have other vulnerabilities like the ability to be removed with a flathead screwdriver. Since smart locks often work with an existing deadbolt, this may mean they have the same level of security as traditional locks.
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. Other videos criticizing Kwikset point out that the lock can be easily compromised using a specialized bypass tool used by locksmiths.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
To open a Kwikset lock with a dead battery, unlock the smart lock with the appropriate key. As a last resort, you may also force open the deadbolt to access your home. After unlocking your door, take apart the Kwikset lock per the manufacturer's instructions, and replace the batteries.
If you're not sure about your own lock, take a close look at it and see if there's a tiny oval hole next to the keyhole. If so, then it's a SmartKey lock.
It uses five wafers that interact with a sidebar to provide protection against lockpicking and key bumping. The Smart Key was Kwikset's response to the media frenzy concerning key bumping, specifically to address the weaknesses of their traditional pin-tumbler cylinders.
While smart locks offer ease of access and they can be locked from anywhere, if you forget to lock up, they are very similar to traditional locks when it comes to security. Since most smart locks work with a traditional deadbolt, they are just as secure as traditional locks.
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.
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.
Privacy and security are at the core of what we do.
They record an access log and in some cases, a photo, when someone attempts to unlock the door. Provides keyless and easy-to-track credentials like the Latch App and Keycard, which removes the insecurity of physical keys, which can be copied and difficult to track.
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.
Google Smart Lock provides a variety of options for keeping your Android phone unlocked in preapproved, known-to-be-safe circumstances. It's an easily overlooked but incredibly useful feature that lets you create a sensible balance between security and convenience. And once you set it up, it's simple as can be to use.
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.
Kwikset®, a Black & Decker® company, has been a leader in the lockset industry for 60 years. Kwikset manufactures and markets several full lines of door hardware, including handlesets, knobs, levers, deadbolts, and pocket door accessories, for residential and light commercial markets.
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.
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.