Can Smart Locks Be Trusted? What You Should Know About Smart Lock Safety
Smart locks are a secure pick for most households, and features like custom automation and remote access can make them safer than standard locks. There are still concerns about safety, but they usually have more to do with how homeowners manage smart locks than with the devices themselves.
Take a closer look at smart lock safety and see why these tools are the better option for your Decatur home.
What Are The Safety Risks Of Smart Locks?
There are risks connected to smart locks, but they primarily center on your own safety habits. Here are a couple of the top concerns:
- Weak codes: Easy-to-guess passcodes are the primary issue when it comes to smart locks. As you might imagine, setting the code to ‘1234’ is a bad idea. You also want to avoid birth dates and other easy-to-guess numbers.
- Smart home hacking: If hackers break into your wireless home security system, they can unlock your door. Change your passwords on occasion, use two-factor authentication, and always run manufacturer-issued software and firmware updates.
- Code smudging: Entering the same numbers over and over can leave smudges that hint at your code. Switch up your passcode and wipe down the buttons often.
Internet outages and power failures can also affect your smart lock. Most will still work at the door as they run on their own batteries, but you may not be able to operate them from your app. Many come with backup keyed options, so you’ll have another way inside.
Pro tip: Smart locks with keyed backups are typically built to resist bumping, a tried-and-true break-in technique used on traditional locks.
Why Smart Locks Are Better For Your Decatur Home Than Traditional Keyed Locks
It’s simple to see the problem of keeping a house key under your door mat, inside your mailbox, or within a rock decoy. Anybody who stumbles upon it will have immediate access to your house and the belongings inside. Even when giving a key to people you trust, it can find its way to the wrong people and be easily copied at the closest hardware store.
Thankfully, the days of depending on house keys are over. Smart door locks eliminate the need for keys and come with a variety of modern features to boost your security.
What Makes Smart Locks Safer Than Standard Locks?
Smart locks are a core part of today’s advanced security systems. They come with features that make them a more secure choice than traditional locks. Some standouts include:
- Auto locking: You can set your door to lock automatically after a certain amount of time. No more worrying about leaving your door unlocked.
- Scheduling: You can schedule smart locks to secure at certain times and include them in whole-home routines. For instance, you can have your system arm, lights dim, and door lock all together when going to bed
- App-based control: You can quickly check your smart lock's status in the home security app. It’s also possible to unlock or lock your door from anywhere.
- Instant updates: You’ll receive alerts on your smartphone app any time somebody engages the lock, keeping you informed of who’s coming and going.
On top of that, anyone who needs access to your home can have their own personal code, so you’re not using the same one. You can also give or take away access whenever you need to.
Open The Door To Modern Home Security With Secure24 Alarm Systems
Smart locks are a fantastic addition to your new security system in Decatur. Connect with the ADT-authorized dealers at Secure24 Alarm Systems to build your full-featured protection today. Call (256) 246-8823 today and get same-day and next-day installations in most areas.