Kensington Laptop Lock Help!
 

I recently purchased a Kensington Laptop Lock and was wondering if they are as secure as they are advertised. My main concern is the round keyhole. I have heard of how individuals can easily use a Bic pen to open the lock without its key in Kryptonite U-Locks etc. In fact, I saw a demonstration online which took less than 2 seconds where an individual uses the Bic pen to open his bike lock.

Is this the same case for the Kensington locks? They utilize the same round keyhole mechanism (at least Kryptonite use to, untill they recalled all round keyhole locks and replaced them with traditional ones). Kensington has not made a recall, but I'm kind of nervous since Kensington continues to use the round keyhole technology despite Kryptonite's recall and lawsuit.

I've always thought of them much more as a theft deterrent device than a theft prevention device.

You can find some locks that offer a guarantee against theft. I think there was a thread about that at one point.

I definitely agree with you there, but if it is as easy to circumvent through a Bic pen under a few seconds, I personally don't see much of a deterrent. I agree that any security in due time will have a hack, but I think this is definitely different.

I'll look around and search for threads, but if others know of a solid answer please let me know! Thanks!

I don't think the Kensington locks can be opened with a Bic pen... I believe the "tool" of choice is the cardboard core of a roll of toilet paper or paper towels. ;)

There used to be a video showing a guy open a lock in seconds. If I find it somewhere, I'll post a link.

Where are you looking to secure the laptop? At the office? hotel? home? I suppose the best security would be to not leave the laptop unattended anywhere. I know that is easier said than done but I'd rather carry my laptop with me than turn my back on it even for a couple seconds while I go get a refill on my coffee.

Found it.
 

Open Kensington laptop lock with toilet paper roll, tape, and pen (VIDEO)

http://www.toool.nl/kensington623.wmv

Not very reassuring! It's so simple, how does Kensington and Kryptonite use something that can be so easily circumvented! Wow! Should I return my lock? I don't know of any company that provides a Laptop lock with a traditional key. Anyone know of one? Thanks!

I don't know about traditional keys but they have ones with user-settable combination locks. If you give a thief enough time, they'll be able to find the right combination but keys could also be lost and then you'd be SOL.

Take a look here:
http://www.targus.com/us/accessories_security.asp

I have the Targus DEFCON 1 Ultra Notebook Computer Security System but never keep a battery in it so the alarm and motion sensor are never used.