
Reading time: 7 minutes / Lars Buchwald / July 1, 2025
Smart Locks: Opportunities and Risks for Locksmith Services
Table of Contents
→ What Smart Locks Actually Are – And What They’re Supposed to Do
→ Legal Gray Areas in Digital Access
→ From Keychain to Cloud – A Cultural Shift in Security
→ Why Locksmiths Don’t Need to Fear Smart Locks
→ The Risks of Smart Technology – From App Failures to Data Breaches
→ When Updates Lock the Door: A Real-World Example
→ Hybrid Is the New Normal – Why Analog and Digital Must Work Together
→ Multipick’s Position on Digital Locking Technology
→ Sources and Legal Notes on Using Smart Locks
A lock that doesn’t need a key? Sounds pretty great at first. Smart locks make exactly that possible: they open doors via app, keypad, fingerprint, or Bluetooth — depending on the system you choose.
What Smart Locks Really Are – And What They Promise
For private homes, there are simple plug-in solutions that can be installed with a bit of DIY skill. But for businesses or landlords, things get more complex — involving user management, time-based access, logs, and remote control. In short: those who used to count keys now count user permissions and cloud-based access codes.
From a Legal Perspective: When Door Access Goes Digital
In Germany: Anyone who opens a door should know who owns it — and whether they’re truly authorized to enter. Sounds obvious, but it gets interesting when the owner is away on a business trip and the smart lock app only shows error messages. Locksmiths must be able to prove that they’re acting on behalf of an authorized individual — and with smart locks using temporary or digital access rights, that often falls into a legal gray area.
In the EU, owning a smart lock isn’t a problem — but operating it in full legal compliance can be. The GDPR requires that access logs, location data, and user management be handled with care.
In the US? Well — the approach is often: install first, litigate later. Nationwide regulations? Not exactly.
Legal references:
• § 858 German Civil Code – Unlawful Possession
• SpringerLink: Legal Protection for Smart Lock Systems
• FTC on Security Updates for Smart Devices
From Keychain to Cloud – More Than Just a Short-Lived Trend
The good old key had two major advantages: it worked offline — and it could be duplicated if needed. Today, to access your home, you need a charged battery, Wi-Fi, and a functioning operating system.
We’re in the middle of a cultural shift. People who unlock their front door with an app now expect the lights to turn on, the coffee machine to start, and Spotify to play their “Home Sweet Home” mix. Security has become a comfort feature — and as we all know, that’s both a blessing and a curse.



Opportunities for Locksmiths – If Handled the Right Way
Anyone who thinks smart locks will make traditional locksmiths obsolete probably also believed e-books would kill the bookstore. The truth is: the business is changing, it’s adapting — but it’s not going away.
What locksmiths can offer today:
• Consulting on product selection and legal compliance
• Installation and setup of smart systems
• Emergency services for digital locks as well
• Maintenance, firmware updates, and diagnostics You could say: the door opener is becoming a door expert.
Risks: Technology Is Still Technology – No Matter How Smart It Claims to Be
Where there’s light, there’s shadow — which brings us to the second part: the risks. And there are plenty of them:
• Power outage = locked door. Not uncommon, especially in older buildings with questionable wiring.
• App crash = no access. Especially when it updates on a Monday (which seems to be a rule of nature 😉).
• Data breach = unauthorized access. Numerous cases show that security vulnerabilities don’t just happen to others. Not all smart locks are equally reliable. Cheap discount models may look sleek but often behave like digital roulette machines with a door attachment.
External sources on this topic:
• Cornell University
A Real-World Observation: When the App Says “Nope”
In a residential complex (unnamed here for data protection reasons), a situation occurred that has probably happened before — and likely won’t be the last. A new smart lock was installed on the basement entrance. Everything worked fine — until an update disabled the NFC access. Residents were literally left standing in the rain with their laundry baskets while the manufacturer's hotline said something to the effect of: “We’re working on it.” What saved the day? An old-fashioned key — luckily, the smart lock was a retrofit model with a traditional cylinder. The building manager had kept it. And the lesson? Digital is great, but sometimes… analog is simply faster.
Conclusion: The Future Is Hybrid – And That’s a Good Thing
Smart locks are changing the game — but they’re not ending it. For locksmiths around the world, this doesn’t mean less work, but new types of work. Those who engage with the technology, evolve their services, and aren’t afraid of data logs don’t need to worry about their professional future.
At Multipick, we see smart locks as a modern and exciting evolution in security technology. They open up new possibilities, introduce new demands — and raise the bar for precision and reliability. As a company that lives innovation and takes technology seriously, we welcome this progress.
And one last thought: Behind every digital display, there’s still a mechanical lock. And wherever there’s a lock cylinder, our tools are not far away. The last word? Still belongs to the one who gets it open — whether by app or by pick.
Sources
Country/Region
Source (public & independent)
Germany - Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur)
EU-wide - EDPB – European Data Protection Board
USA - FTC – Federal Trade Commission Privacy & Smart Homes
Haufe Immobilien - Technical Risks
Netzwerk-Guides.de
FAQ – Everything You Need to Know.
1. Can Locksmiths Still Make Money with Smart Locks?
Yes – more than ever. The demand is shifting from traditional emergency unlocking to consulting, installation, and system maintenance. Customers want working solutions, not DIY experiments. Those who demonstrate expertise in this field become trusted professionals.
2. Which Smart Locks Are Suitable for Professional Use?
Avoid low-end models without clear certification. For businesses, property managers, or sensitive access points, recommended systems should include:
– Certified encryption (e.g., AES-256)
– GDPR-compliant access logging
– Updates via secure server
– Mechanical emergency override
Look for well-established vendors with reliable support structures in Europe.
3. What Should Locksmiths Keep in Mind When Unlocking Smart Locks?
Documentation is essential. In digital systems, it’s not just about the owner’s consent — it’s also about: Who is currently listed as the admin? Is the app locked or abandoned? Always request written authorization — ideally with a system log or access protocol.
4. Are There Training Programs for Working with Smart Locks?
Yes. Manufacturers like Nuki, SimonsVoss, and Danalock offer technical training — often for free or as webinars. Some security academies also provide hands-on, practical courses. Tip: Combine training with a sales partnership — this strengthens your credibility with clients.
5. What About Liability in the Case of Malfunctions?
It’s a complex issue. Anyone who installs or configures a smart lock may be held liable for proven errors — especially if data protection, access rights, or safety functions are compromised. Always document the installation and handover. Use checklists to guide your service calls.
6. How Can You Tell If a Smart Lock Is Vulnerable to Tampering?
Technical vulnerabilities aren’t visible to the naked eye. Penetration tests, online databases (like CVE Details), or industry portals such as heise.de can help. A good rule of thumb: if the lock doesn’t receive regular security updates, it shouldn’t be recommended — or better yet, it should be replaced.
7. How Do Insurance Companies Respond to Smart Locks?
Many insurers require detailed documentation when smart access systems are in use. Some will only consider them equivalent to mechanical locks if they are VdS-certified. Check with your client whether their insurer has special requirements — such as combining smart locks with mechanical backup systems.
8. Can Locksmiths Sell Their Own Smart Lock Products?
Absolutely. Those who partner with one or more manufacturers can operate as certified resellers or installers. It pays off in two ways: customers get both tech and service from a single source — and you secure recurring revenue through maintenance and updates.
9. What If Customers Buy Smart Locks Online and Then Ask for Help?
No panic — see it as an opportunity. Offer a “bring-your-own-lock” service: inspect, install, and configure for a fixed fee. Many customers underestimate the effort involved and are grateful when a professional steps in. Important: be transparent about pricing and clearly define your liability when dealing with self-imported products.
10. How Can You Build Trust with Customers — Despite the Digital Tech?
Show your expertise, but stay approachable. Customers trust people, not brands. A candid conversation about security limits, real-life scenarios, and hybrid solutions builds credibility. And if you also recommend a mechanical backup cylinder — even better. Technology is great, but humans remain the key to true security.
About the Author
Lars Buchwald has been an integral part of the Multipick team since 2006, where he dedicates his passion and expertise to marketing and graphics. As a trained graphic designer and copywriter, he brings a wealth of experience and creativity to his work, which enables him to convey the messages of the ingenious tools in an appealing and convincing way. With a keen sense for the needs of the target group, he steers Multipick's marketing fortunes. His commitment is characterized by a high degree of sensitivity and the right richer at the right time.
As a native of Bonn, Lars not only has close ties to the region, but has also firmly integrated his passion for marketing spear tools into his professional work. His attachment to the city is reflected in his work and gives his marketing campaigns an authentic, Bonn touch.
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About Multipick
Multipick was established here in Bonn in 1997 and has had its headquarters and production facilities here on the Rhine ever since.
Why should we leave here? Anyone who has been here before will agree that it is a very beautiful place and that the people are ‘typically Rhineland’, open-minded and friendly. From an early stage, we began to occupy ourselves with a wide variety of entry tools. We tried out lock snappers and core extractors such as the Bell and gathered a wealth of experience with a wide variety of tools. Whether it was a lock pick set or special tools for fire brigades and locksmiths, in the end the door or window had to be opened. In line with the motto, you got the problem and we got the solution.
Many tools, irrespective of hobby or professional, are dispatched from our warehouse to destinations throughout the world.
Opening tool kits for caretakers and locksmiths, pick sets and lock picking accessories for Locksport enthusiasts and Hobbs hooks for specialists to unlock locked safes. There are thousands of different ways to deploy our specialised tools. Our TFG latch plates and key turners allow a closed door to be reopened. QA Pro 2 and our V-Pro core pulling screws can be used to open a locked door. We also offer milling burrs and drill bits for those situations where there really is no other way. Many useful aids such as MICA opening cards, wedges, door latch spatulas, door handle catches and spiral openers, which are all useful tools to help you get the job done. But even if things get a bit complicated, you are in good hands with us. Products such as the Kronos and Artemis electric picks are our top highlights. Anyone who likes to open dimple locks or disc locks will be delighted with the ARES system. For opening windows, we offer you a range of top products from Kipp-Blitz. Favoured by emergency services such as the fire brigade, THW (Federal Agency for Technical Relief) and police. Many of our tools are manufactured in-house. This gives us the liberty to manufacture quickly and in a customer-orientated manner. No lengthy supply chains and subcontractor dependencies. This has a number of advantages both for you and, of course, for our environment. One big advantage is that you get everything from a single source, enabling us to offer you consistent quality. This is also our promise to you, all from a single source, Made in Germany, Made in Bonn - promised.