Summary of USE A DIGITAL KEY TO DETER LOCKPICKING
This article discusses a DIY digital lock project using a YubiKey hardware token and an Arduino UNO to replace physical keys. It highlights the vulnerability of standard locks to picking and proposes this advanced solution for scenarios requiring secure logging, shared access, or elimination of physical key liabilities. The creator provides open-source code and build instructions, noting that users must design their own secure enclosure for the prototype.
Parts used in the Digital Lock Project:
- YubiKey USB hardware token
- Arduino UNO
- Lockpicking kit (mentioned as the problem being solved)
Spending an hour or two around any consumer-level padlock or house deadbolt lock with a simple lockpicking kit will typically instil a good amount of panic and concern about security. While it’s true that any lock can be defeated, it’s almost comically easy to pick basic locks like this. So, if you’re looking for a level of security that can’t be defeated in two minutes with a tiny piece of metal, you might want to try something a little more advanced.
This project stemmed from an idea to use a YubiKey, a USB hardware token typically used for two-factor authentication, for physical locks instead. The prototype was built around an Arduino UNO, and all of the code and build instructions are available on the project’s site. The creator, [rprinz08], does not have one built inside of a secure enclosure so that would remain an exercise for the reader, but the proof-of-concept is interesting and certainly useful.
While digital keys like this can have their own set of problems (as all locks do), this would be a great solution for anyone needing to lock up anything where physical keys are a liability or a nuisance, where logging is important, or where many people need access to the same lock. The open source code and well-known platform make it easy for anyone to build, too.
Source: USE A DIGITAL KEY TO DETER LOCKPICKING
- Why was this project created?
To provide security against basic locks that can be picked in two minutes with a tiny piece of metal. - What hardware tokens are used for the digital key?
A YubiKey USB hardware token typically used for two-factor authentication is used. - What microcontroller powers the prototype?
The prototype is built around an Arduino UNO. - Is the code for this project available?
Yes, all code and build instructions are available on the project site. - Does the creator include a secure enclosure?
No, the creator does not have one built inside a secure enclosure. - Who should consider building this lock?
Anyone needing to lock up items where physical keys are a liability or nuisance, where logging is important, or where many people need access. - Can anyone build this lock?
Yes, the open source code and well-known platform make it easy for anyone to build.
