- Joined
- May 29, 2001
I just copied this from the boating BB I frequent, thought it would be of interest here:
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Apparently, the Kryptonite lock - popular security products for everything from bikes to tools...to even boats (!) is able to be unlocked with a standard 10¢ BIC pen.
All you need to do to compromise the security of the lock is to is pop off the end of the pen and wedge it into the lock cylinder. A few twists of the pen, and the lock will open.
This includes ANY lock with the standard seven-pin tubular tumbler mechanism was heretofore marketed as unpickable.
I have a few of these locks and use a cable lock version run through the wheel of the boat trailer and around the frame for extra security.
I gather many other BABCer's use these types of locks as well to secure their belongings...
Watch the Video of the Lock being opened!
It's kind of ironic in a way that the lock that will stand up to bolt cutters, hammers, chisels, hacksaws, etc. can be "hacked" with a cheap plastic pen that you probably carry in your pocket!
In any case, Kryptonite is offering free upgrades to their locks. You register online with them and they will send a UPS call tag to collect your locks and they will replace the cylinder and return it to you. It takes about a month to get this service done...so plan ahead!
I didn't believe this until I went to the Kryptonite Web Site to confirm this story...
There is a notice on Kryptonite's home page regarding the situation.
Kryptonite Lock
-------------------------------
Apparently, the Kryptonite lock - popular security products for everything from bikes to tools...to even boats (!) is able to be unlocked with a standard 10¢ BIC pen.
All you need to do to compromise the security of the lock is to is pop off the end of the pen and wedge it into the lock cylinder. A few twists of the pen, and the lock will open.
This includes ANY lock with the standard seven-pin tubular tumbler mechanism was heretofore marketed as unpickable.
I have a few of these locks and use a cable lock version run through the wheel of the boat trailer and around the frame for extra security.
I gather many other BABCer's use these types of locks as well to secure their belongings...
Watch the Video of the Lock being opened!
It's kind of ironic in a way that the lock that will stand up to bolt cutters, hammers, chisels, hacksaws, etc. can be "hacked" with a cheap plastic pen that you probably carry in your pocket!
In any case, Kryptonite is offering free upgrades to their locks. You register online with them and they will send a UPS call tag to collect your locks and they will replace the cylinder and return it to you. It takes about a month to get this service done...so plan ahead!
I didn't believe this until I went to the Kryptonite Web Site to confirm this story...
There is a notice on Kryptonite's home page regarding the situation.
Kryptonite Lock