DuressKeyboard is an open-source Android application designed to trigger a factory reset upon entering a specific password, though testing reveals it lacks the reliability of native OS-level features.

Key Points

• DuressKeyboard 7.0 allows users to set a "wipe password" that initiates a factory reset when entered on the lock screen.
• The app requires Device Administrator privileges and must be set as the default keyboard to monitor login attempts.
• Additional triggers include USB connections, screen-off states, and a "dead hand" mode for lost mobile signal.
• Testing on a Samsung Note 20 running ArtisanROM showed the app could trigger a reboot, but failed to successfully wipe the device's data.
• Unlike GrapheneOS, which destroys encryption keys at the system level, DuressKeyboard relies on the Android Device Policy Manager to request a reset from recovery.

Why it Matters

Relying on third-party apps for emergency data destruction can provide a false sense of security, as performance varies significantly based on the device's specific recovery environment. Furthermore, users should be aware that intentionally destroying data to prevent government seizure can lead to federal criminal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 2232(a).