I was recently asked to reconsider my rating on my review of the Targus Defcon CL Notebook Computer Cable Lock as the person noted that this particular security cable locking system can be breached and the details on how to do this could be found at endgadget.com.
I reviewed the article and the accompanying video clips that detail the process required to breach the Targus Defcon CL Notebook Computer Cable Lock, and while I agree it is possible to breach this cable system, I don't honestly feel that it is a huge threat and that the rating I gave should be amended. I'm sure that there will be some folks who totally disagree with me, but before we all start to panic and spend time worrying about people with evil intent trying to steal our laptops, let me explain quickly that in order to breach the Targus Defcon CL Notebook Computer Cable Lock as demonstrated at endgadget.com it will take some time and effort. It's not simply a matter of cutting some wires and your laptop is gone.
What You Need
Anyone planning to breach the Targus Defcon CL Notebook Computer Cable Lock and steal your computer will need the following:
- Beer can,
- Lighter,
- 7" diagonal cutters,
- and/or 14" bolt cutters,
- TIME
Now most people will not normally be carrying any of the aforementioned pieces of gear on a daily basis, remember that most laptop thefts are a crime of opportunity. Another issue is that unless the person planning to steal the laptops has a job which enables them to be carrying tools, such as a maintenance worker they aren't likely to be in an area where the laptops would be secured.
Eyes on You
Sure you say, plenty of cool things can be hidden in a laptop carrying case - true but for many office buildings especially if they are connected to government organizations there will be security and laptop bags can be searched. How do you explain the presence of bolt cutters? I don't think I'd want to even be in that person's shoes.
Additional security precautions include the increased use of video surveillance in most buildings - used to prevent theft and possibly violence against other individuals. So while you may be able to breach the locking system and free that laptop - you've been caught on camera and you're not likely to get very far. So what did you gain in the long run? A "nice" record to follow you forever and that just may prevent your future employment opportunities.
Where There Is Smoke...
Before the person can even attempt to begin cutting the wires, they have to first burn off the outer plastic covering. While I haven't personally tried to burn the outer sheathing of the Targus Defcon CL Notebook Computer Cable Lock, I have burned plastic and it makes a lot of smoke. Even a small amount of burning plastic makes some pretty thick smoke. You're probably thinking and the point is? How many offices don't have sprinkler systems or smoke detectors anymore? Not too many I'd warrant. Their purpose is to prevent fires from causing great amounts of damage and I don't want to be the one to experiment and see if the smoke from the melting plastic will activate them. The smell of burning plastic is rather strong, and unless the potential thief is in an area with no venting or air circulating; it will be noticed.
Beer Anyone?
The other method to breach the security of the Targus Defconn CL Notebook Computer Cable Lock is to use a piece of flexible metal - a shim created from a beer can is the example given to force the locking mechanism open. Now I don't know about you, but I'm not going to be carrying metal shims around on my person. This method also takes some time and effort to manipulate the lock mechanism and again, what thief will want to spend that time?
So while I agree in theory that the Targus Defcon CL Notebook Computer Cable Lock can be breached; it's going to take a fair bit of time and effort and most thieves aren't going to work that hard. There are far easier targets elsewhere for them.
Common Sense Rules
Should you be concerned and get rid of your Targus Defcon CL Notebook Computer Cable Lock? I say no but I do would recommend that you never leave your laptop, even secured by any cable-locking device in an area that is open and anyone can have access to it, do not leave your laptop not connected to a cable locking system and remember that being pro-active about the security of your laptop and its contents is a top priority. If you don't feel comfortable leaving your laptop in a locked office secured by a cable - then take it with you. Don't leave yourself open to become a target or opportunity for a thief.