Security Devices
The rules for security devices (and bypassing them) in Shadowrun Fifth Edition Core Rulebook (p. 358), specifically the section on Doors, Windows, & Locks and the tools used in conjunction with them don't make a huge amount of sense.
Key Locks & Transponder-Embedded Keys
Change the basic test from Locksmith + AGI Test to Locksmith + LOG Test. Nimble fingers help, but really, it's a brain game.
In line with the changes to Active Skills, use an Electronics + LOG Test instead.
Maglocks
Cracking a maglock's case to access the electronics requires a Locksmith + Agility [Physical] (Maglock Rating × 2, 1 Combat Turn) Extended Test. Reassembling the case afterwards requires the same test.
Whether or not physical violence (treat it as attempting to destroy a Barrier with Structure and Armor equal to the Maglock's Rating) is beneficial to bypassing a maglock depends on the site's security design. If the lock is designed to fail-safe, smashing it will in fact open whatever it is securing, but will also inform the security system of the breach. If the system is instead designed to fail-secure, destroying the lock will not open whatever it is securing... and it will still inform the security system of the breach.
As described in the book, a maglock can have one (or more) authentication methods — keypads, card readers, print scanners, voice recognition, DNA scanner, or facial recognition. The first error is stating that the first step requires accessing the maglock's electronics. This step is only required if the goal is to bypass the authentication method completely.
In the case of Keypads, either the character has the code or they don't. If they don't have they code, they do have to access the innards as described.
The quickest and simplest method of bypassing a maglock is using a Maglock Passkey[1] — you swipe the passkey and cross your fingers. It does not require
- ↑ Shadowrun Fifth Edition Core Rulebook (p. 448)