The EPO published patent application EP4138337A1 for BKS GmbH on March 25, 2026. The invention relates to cryptographic methods for securing access rights in locking systems that utilize electronic access media. Key technical areas include H04L 9/40 (network security), G07C 9/27 (electronic access control), and H04L 9/08/14 (cryptographic key management). The designated states cover the full EU territory plus Switzerland, Norway, Turkey, and other European countries.

Patent publications are informational notices conferring property rights rather than imposing compliance obligations. Entities developing or deploying electronic access control systems in locking applications should assess whether this patent affects their freedom to operate, particularly if implementing cryptographic access media. The patent does not authorize any party to engage in specific conduct; it restricts others from practicing the claimed invention without license.