LAKE FOREST, CA. (March 2, 2010) – Kwikset Corp. (Kwikset), today amended a previously filed patent infringement lawsuit against Schlage Lock Company LLC (Schlage) for false advertising or “false and misleading claims” involving its proprietary SmartKey™ re-key technology. 

Kwikset, a leading provider of door hardware and locksets, is alleging that Schlage’s advertising and packaging for the Schlage SecureKey product contains false and misleading statements – principally that SecureKey products are “10 Times More Secure” than other lock products.

The suit has been filed in United States District Court for the District of Delaware. In addition to claiming false advertising, Kwikset seeks an injunction against Schlage for further acts of false advertising, as well as monetary damages.

Kwikset introduced SmartKey re-key technology in April 2007. Schlage introduced SecureKey in mid-January 2010. 

Kwikset amended a pending lawsuit filed on January 27, 2010, titled Kwikset Corp. and Newfrey LLC v. Schlage Lock Company LLC, C.A. No. 10-64 (D. Delaware). The patent infringement lawsuit alleges that Schlage SecureKey products infringe U.S. Patent No. 7,213,429 titled "Rekeyable Lock Assembly," issued on May 8, 2007 and U.S. Patent No. 7,434,431 titled "Keying System and Method," issued on October 14, 2008. 

About SmartKey
SmartKey re-key technology features a patented side-locking bar, central to the locks’ ability to be rapidly and easily re-keyed. This stainless steel side-locking bar also replaces the traditional pin and tumbler design that is particularly vulnerable to increasingly popular lock-bumping attacks. Additionally, the cylinder uses two steel balls inserted into the front of the key face to provide improved drill resistance. Delivering outstanding strength and protection, SmartKey deadbolts have passed the most stringent lock picking standard, UL 437, par. 11.6 and offer ANSI/BHMA certified Grade 1 security. Grade 1 security is the highest level of tested residential security available in the industry. 

About Kwikset
For more than 60 years, Kwikset, manufacturer of America's most trusted name in security, has provided beauty, security and peace of mind for millions of families. For more information on Kwikset products, call 1-800-327-LOCK or visit www.kwikset.com.

Black & Decker Hardware and Home Improvement (BDHHI) Group is a division of Black & Decker (NYSE:BDK), a leading global manufacturer and marketer of power tools and accessories, hardware and home improvement products, and technology-based fastening systems. Today, the BDHHI Group includes some of the most recognizable hardware and home improvement brands in the world including Kwikset®, Weiser Lock®, Baldwin®, Price Pfister® and K2™ Commercial Hardware by Black & Decker.