Unveiling Vulnerabilities in Magnetic Locks: Insights from a Security Consultant and Expert Witness

In the realm of security, magnetic locks have long been a popular choice for controlling access to various premises. We celebrate these locks for their convenience, but like any security system, they are not without vulnerabilities. As a Security Consultant and Expert Witness with experience in Premise Liability, Forensic Security, Security Negligence, Security Management and technical security technology, I'd like to shed light on the vulnerabilities associated with magnetic locks—vulnerabilities I have personally exploited.

Bypassing with Magnetic Devices: Magnetic locks operate on the principle of electromagnetism. They are activated or deactivated when an electric current passes through a coil, creating a magnetic field that secures or releases the lock. However, this very mechanism can be exploited. Individuals with knowledge of electromagnetic fields could  use powerful magnets or electromagnets to manipulate the lock and gain unauthorized access. More concerning is that building codes often require magnetic locks in the path of egress to be equipped with two deactivation methods, typically pairing them with passive infrared detectors (PIR). These can be activated from the secured side of the door through various means, such as expressing Co2, smoke, or a compressed refrigerant, or with older technology, even paper. (See demonstration here).

Surreptitious Entry: An aggressor with access to the portal can achieve surreptitious entry by covering only a small portion of the magnetic lock (e.g., using a small band-aid), significantly decreasing its holding force. This reduction in force can enable a brute force attack, such as shoulder-forcing the door open.

Power Failures: Magnetic locks require a continuous supply of electricity to remain locked. During a power outage or electrical failure, these locks can automatically disengage, leaving the premises vulnerable to unauthorized entry. While backup power sources like batteries or generators can mitigate this risk, they must be regularly maintained to ensure their effectiveness. Sometimes, aggressors may wait out the typical four-hour battery runtime before attempting access. An important consideration for any organization within a geographical area that has or will have rolling brown outs.

Holding Force: Magnetic locks should have a holding force of at least 1200 pounds, and shear locks should be avoided. Prioritizing aesthetics over security can lead to liability issues. A simple question from a lawyer could be, "Why did you not use surface-mounted locks?" with an unacceptable answer being, "I wanted it to look pretty."

Manufacturer Oversights: Some manufacturers provide visual cues to support installation but cannot recognize what these cues communicate to potential aggressors. For example, in the image above, visual indicators like red or green lights can inadvertently assist unauthorized individuals in identifying which door is secured.

Door Alignment: Proper alignment of the door with the magnetic lock is crucial; otherwise, the magnet will not seat correctly with the armature plate.

Coordination: Magnetic locks need to be coordinated with mechanical systems and expected pressures. Over pressurization can prevent the magnet from bonding with the armature plate.

Installation: Magnetic locks must be correctly installed using proper anchoring brackets and mounting support. Drywall screws are not acceptable, as improper installation can make the lock susceptible to a breach. SEE EXAMPLE HERE: https://www.ahrenssecurity.com/post/what-the-installer-said-was

Recommendations:

• Whenever possible, limit the use of magnetic locks, especially on critical or high-value assets.

• Ensure battery backups provide at least eight hours of power, and replace batteries annually.

• Install surveillance cameras in locations with magnetic locks.

• Follow manufacturer standards for technology installation.

• Use magnetic locks with bond sensors to detect bonding issues.

• Use a strong door closer to ensure proper door closure and armature-magnet contact.

• Place emergency buttons away from the door.

• Integrate multiple systems, such as dual PIR sensors on opposite sides of the door, wired in series, requiring activation of both sensors to de-energize the magnetic lock. Employ newer technology immune to current methods of defeating or bypassing PIR.

• For magnetic locks, use locks with a holding force of at least 1200 pounds and avoid shear locks.

As a security expert witness, it's essential to evaluate security technology when investigating cases involving security negligence or premises liability. Ensuring that selected magnetic locks meet best practices, regularly conducting security audits, and staying vigilant against emerging threats are critical steps for mitigating these vulnerabilities. In conclusion, magnetic locks offer a convenient and efficient means of access control but are not immune to vulnerabilities. Security expert witnesses play a crucial role in identifying these vulnerabilities and supporting positive case outcomes.