Understanding and Improving the Usability, Security, and Privacy of Smart Locks from the Perspective of the End User

Over the past two decades, the Internet of Things (IoT) has seen a significant expansion in both the sophistication and variety of its applications. These applications span several domains, including enhancing and automating services in healthcare, advancing smart manufacturing processes, and elevating home living standards through smart home technologies. These technologies empower individuals with greater control over their home appliances. Smart locks are smart home devices that were introduced as replacements for traditional locks. Smart locks, designed to go beyond the basic functionality of traditional locks by offering additional features, have seen a surge in market growth and competitiveness. According to the Statista Research Department, it is projected that the global market for smart locks will surpass four billion dollars by 2027.
A number of studies have examined end users' concerns, needs, and expectations regarding smart homes in general. However, little research has been conducted to examine these aspects of the smart lock in particular. To address this gap, we conducted a series of user studies that aim to elucidate how smart locks are integrated and interact within smart home environments, focusing on user interactions both with the locks themselves and when they are part of broader automation scenarios. This dissertation contributes to a deeper understanding of smart lock technology from a user-centric viewpoint. It offers insights into user motivations, concerns, and preferences regarding smart lock usage and automation. It also highlights the importance of balancing convenience and security, the pivotal role of trust, and the complexities of integrating smart locks into broader smart home systems.