
Can Smart Locks Be Trusted? What You Should Know About Smart Lock Safety
Smart locks are a secure pick for most homes, and features like remote access and automated schedules can make them more secure than traditional locks. There are still concerns about safety, but they generally have more to do with the way homeowners use smart locks than with the actual devices.
Dig deeper into smart lock safety and learn why they’re a great fit for your Grand Rapids home.
What Are The Security Risks Of Smart Locks?
There are risks with smart locks, but they largely depend on your family’s own safety habits. Here are some of the chief concerns:
- Predictable codes: Overly simple passcodes are the primary security risk when using smart locks. As you can imagine, programming a code of ‘1234’ is asking for trouble. You should also avoid birthdays or anniversaries and other easy-to-guess numbers.
- Cyberattacks: If someone hacks into your wireless network, they can proceed to unlock the door. Update your passcodes, employ two-factor authentication, and be sure to install manufacturer-issued firmware and software updates.
- Code smudging: Touching the same buttons again and again can leave smears that point to your code. Switch up your passcode and wipe down the keypad regularly.
Internet outages and power failures can also affect your smart lock. Most will continue to work locally as they run on their own batteries, but you might not be able to operate them from your app. Many come with backup keyed locks, which gives you another way in.
Pro tip: Smart locks with keyed backups are usually built to resist bumping, a well-known break-in method used on conventional locks.
Why Smart Locks Are Better For Your Grand Rapids Home Than Conventional Keyed Entries
It’s easy to see the risk of keeping a house key beneath your door mat, inside your mailbox, or within a rock decoy. Whoever finds it will have easy access to your house and everything inside. Even when giving a key to people you trust, it can end up with the wrong person and be easily copied at the nearest hardware store.
Luckily, the days of depending on house keys are over. Smart door locks let you go keyless and come with a range of modern features to boost your security.
What Gives Smart Locks The Edge Over Traditional Locks?
Smart locks are a core part of today’s advanced security systems. They include features that make them a stronger choice than standard locks. Some standouts include:
- Automatic locking: You can program your door to lock automatically after a certain amount of time. You no longer have to worry about forgetting to lock your door.
- Scheduling: You can set smart locks to secure at specific times and include them in automated routines. To illustrate, you can have lights dim, your lock engage, and your system arm all together when you go to bed
- Remote management: You can always see your smart lock's status in the home security app. It’s also possible to unlock or lock your door remotely.
- Notifications: You’ll receive alerts on your smartphone app any time someone engages the lock, letting you know who’s entering and exiting.
Plus, everyone who needs access to your home can get their own personal code, so you’re not using the same one. You can also give or take away access at any time.
Open The Door To Modern Home Security With Secure24 Alarm Systems
Smart locks are a fantastic addition to your new home security system in Grand Rapids. Contact the ADT-authorized dealers at Secure24 Alarm Systems to design your home’s protection today. Place a call to (616) 207-3771 today and take advantage of our same-day and next-day installation in most locations.
