Security

So-called "porch pirates" are generally looking for packages that they can grab quickly and easily – if anything presents a challenge, they'll move on to another porch. It was with this in mind that the Snare Parcel Protection system was created.

Although offshore structures such as wind turbines do need to be protected, crews of guard boats can get bored waiting around – plus, they have to be paid a salary. It was with this in mind that the Autonomous Guard Vessel was recently conceived.

It can be a hassle, removing your bike lock from its frame mount (or from your bag) every time you want to use it. The Lobster Lock is different, though, in that it stays attached to your bike at all times – even when the lock is in use.

Voice-activated smart speakers can be handy around the house, but they come with a privacy trade-off. Appropriately named start-up Paranoid has unveiled a set of devices that can make sure smart speakers are only listening when you want them to.

Bicycle locks have a tendency to be big and heavy, so they're kind of a hassle to bring along on rides. Some companies have attempted to address that situation, by designing locks that are actually a part of the bike. Here are a few of our favorites.

Even when a thief can't steal a complete bike, they'll still pilfer parts off of it – and that includes the saddle. That's where the Quick Release Seatpost comes in, as it allows riders to quickly remove and replace the saddle themselves.

If you regularly park your bike in the same place and need something to lock it up to, it can be frustrating to always be searching for a signpost or whatnot. Hiplok's new Ankr is made to help, serving as a semi-permanent locking point.

Mini computers are capable, quiet, and often inexpensive ways to bring a full-size desktop computing experience to small spaces. Purism has just announced the Librem Mini, a small PC for the home office or media server for digital entertainment.

When it comes to locking your bike securely, a U-lock is pretty much the best way to go. The things are heavy, though, plus their rigid shackles can't be bent to pass around obstacles. That's where the Litelok Flexi-U Silver is designed to come in.

We've been seeing an increasing number of "smart" bike locks lately, most of which sound an audible alarm if messed with. So, what if you like that feature, but are otherwise happy with your "dumb" lock? Well, that's where the Alarmbox comes in.

Ford seems to believe theft of fancy alloy wheels is on the rise thanks to improved security systems that make it harder to steal whole cars. So it's working on creating anti-theft wheel nuts, each individually 3D printed for the car owner.

Back in 2011, we heard about a rather quirky but apparently effective bike lock known as the TiGr. Now, its makers are back with a new version that's more compact and harder to cut through.