Everything Wrong With Smart Locks and How to Fix ThemEverything Wrong With Smart Locks and How to Fix Them
Making your home “smart” is all the rage right now, and for good reason – who doesn’t want to be able to control their environment with the touch of a button? But we spoke to professionals at Serrurier Locksmith Montreal. We found out one of the most popular “smart” devices on the market today has some major security flaws- smart locks.
While it’s efficient to use your own voice, open your eyes to be scanned, or open it from your smartphone, smart locks are not always a good option. The idea of not having to fumble for my keys in bad weather is incredibly appealing, but are smart locks really all they’re cracked up to be? Let’s talk about the blunders smart locks often possess and how to fix them.
What If Your Smart Lock Gets Hacked?
First, let’s talk about the highly-debated topic of the cons of smart locks – being hacked. If a hacker gets into your devices in your home, they could conceivably get into your house through the smart lock. This is especially true for older models that don’t have the best security features.
While it’s possible to hack any device connected to the internet, it’s still something to be aware of. Fortunately, many smart locks manufacturers are aware of this issue and are working to fix it in future models. In the meantime, make sure your router is password-protected and up-to-date.
What If Your Smartphone Was Lost or Stolen?
If your smart lock is set up to be opened by a simple touch on your smartphone, what happens if you lose your phone or it gets stolen? A thief could potentially walk right into your home without ever having to break a window or pick a lock. This is why it’s crucial to have a backup plan for your smart lock. Many models let you set up a temporary password that can be used in case of an emergency, or you can keep a physical key hidden somewhere on your property.
What If the Power Goes Out?
While this isn’t unique to smart locks, it’s still something to be aware of. If the power goes out and your smart lock is battery-operated, you could be stuck outside in the cold (or heat). Not only that, but if the power is out for an extended time, your smart lock’s battery could die, leaving you without any way to get into your home. So be sure to monitor your smart lock’s battery and keep a spare one on hand, just in case.
What If the WiFi or Internet Connection Is Out?
Another common problem with smart devices is that they rely on a strong internet connection to function properly. If your WiFi or the power goes out (as discussed above), your smart lock may not work. This issue may not be as common, but it’s still something to consider before switching to a smart lock. Hence, you might want a backup plan in place for getting into …