SECTOR INSIGHT
THE DIGITAL KEYWAY: SBD’ S NEW APP ACCREDITATION
» THE TRADITIONAL LOCKSMITH’ S world of pins, tumblers, and physical keys is rapidly merging with the digital realm. As‘ Smart’ becomes the standard for residential and commercial security, the mobile app has become the primary interface for the modern lock. Recognising this, the official police security initiative Secured by Design( SBD) has expanded its Secure Connected Device( SCD) framework to include standalone mobile app certification.
What is the SCD App Accreditation Scheme?
Developed in collaboration with the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office( FCDO) and the National Centre for Violence Against Women & Girls( NCVPP), this is a police-endorsed security standard.
This isn’ t just about software- it’ s about ensuring the digital handle on the door is as tamper-proof as the physical cylinder. Apps with SCD accreditation have undergone third-party testing to prove they have the necessary controls to prevent unauthorised access, safeguarding users from common cyber threats and data breaches.
The Evolution of the Smart Service Call
Smart home devices- including locks, alarms, and security cameras- are typically controlled via mobile apps. However, industry data shows that 95 % of leading mobile apps fail to meet baseline security standards.
An insecure app is a major liability:
• The vulnerable key: Insecure apps are targets for digital lock-picking, via malware, trojans, and spyware, used to gain unauthorised access to homes and businesses
• Facilitated crime: Poorly secured apps can be exploited for stalking or harassment, particularly affecting vulnerable users
• Burglary: As traditional crimes are increasingly facilitated by digital gaps, a lock is only as strong as the app that opens it
Bridging Physical and Digital Security
The SCD accreditation acts as the critical bridge between hardware and software. It ensures that as a lock evolves into an IoT device, its digital defences are as robust as its physical components.
Just as you would look for the SBD logo on a physical door or window, the SCD logo on an app confirms the digital key meets rigorous police-endorsed standards.
www. securedbydesign. com
WINKHAUS UK CELEBRATES 10 NOMINATIONS AT THE 2026 NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS
» WINKHAUS UK IS THRILLED TO BE named finalists in 10 category finalists at the 2026 National Fenestration Awards, recognising the company’ s people, products, innovation, customer service, and marketing activity across the fenestration sector.
The nominations span a wide range of categories, reflecting Winkhaus UKs continued focus on technical excellence, product development, service, and industry support.
Winkhaus UK has been nominated for:
• Hardware Company of the Year
• New Product of the Year – Crafted Synergy- Polaris
• Door Component of the Year – Crafted Synergy- Polaris
• Window Component of the Year – aluPilot
• Fire Door Safety Product of the Year – Winkhaus fire doorset systems
• Digital Campaign of the Year – AV4 campaign
• Best Use of Video – Winkhaus overview video
• Managing Director of the Year – Justin Harris
• Customer Service Person of the Year – Sophie Baker
• Young Person of the Year – Sophie Baker
The shortlist recognises several key areas of focus for Winkhaus UK, including the continued development of aluPilot, the company’ s modular aluminium window hardware platform, and Crafted Synergy with Polaris, its smart, compliant security ecosystem designed to bring locking systems, cylinders, protective hardware, and smart control together as one tested solution.
It also highlights the role of Winkhaus UK’ s fire doorset systems, customer support teams, digital activity and leadership, alongside individual recognition for Sophie Baker and Managing Director Justin Harris.
Justin Harris, Managing Director of Winkhaus UK, said:
“ We are extremely proud to have received 10 nominations at this year’ s National Fenestration Awards. The breadth of the categories reflects the commitment, expertise, and hard work of people across our whole business, from product development and technical support through to customer service, marketing, and leadership.”
Winkhaus UK is also continuing its support of the National Fenestration Awards as a Main Sponsor for 2026, marking the third consecutive year the company has supported the industry-led awards programme.
Voting for the 2026 National Fenestration Awards opens on Monday 27 April at 9am and closes on Friday 18 September at 5pm.
www. winkhaus. com
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MAY 2026
locksmithjournal. co. uk Issue Takeover