The latest smart lock trend has been taking the internet by storm. Technology is moving at an incredible pace. Every day we hear about a new gadget or app that does this or that. Many of these innovations make consumers’ lives easier. But unfortunately, the internet of things can also make our homes more vulnerable to security threats.
A smart lock is no exception since they are set to become the next generation of home security. At MacArthur Locks & Door, clients often ask if these locks are hackable. In this article, let us look at the facts and find the answer to this question.
What Is a Smart Lock?
An electronic lock that locks and unlocks remotely using a wireless device or keypad is called a “smart lock.” Anyone with access can operate one via an app on a smartphone. Other ways of access include specific electronic key fobs, keypads with a code, and biometric access.
The latest smart lock trend has been taking the internet by storm. Technology is moving at an incredible pace. Every day we hear about a new gadget or app that does this or that. Many of these innovations make consumers’ lives easier. But unfortunately, the internet of things can also make our homes more vulnerable to security threats.
A smart lock is no exception since they are set to become the next generation of home security. At MacArthur Locks & Door, clients often ask if these locks are hackable. In this article, let us look at the facts and find the answer to this question.
What Is a Smart Lock?
An electronic lock that locks and unlocks remotely using a wireless device or keypad is called a “smart lock.” Anyone with access can operate one via an app on a smartphone. Other ways of access include specific electronic key fobs, keypads with a code, and biometric access.
Can a Smart Lock Be Hacked?
Whether used for convenience or security, smart locks have become part of the smart home revolution. Let us look at the security implications of its use. Furthermore, learn how you can ensure that your smart door lock is as secure as possible.
Spying on Bluetooth
Bluetooth connectivity is present in most smart locks for home. It is an unusual but possible security threat where a hacker may use a Bluetooth sniffer to access the lock. However, this method calls for the hacker to have extensive knowledge of programming codes. Furthermore, it uses a few complex pieces of computer hardware to “sniff” the data from your smartphone over Bluetooth. Another factor that makes this more challenging is the limited Bluetooth range. A hacker must be physically close to the lock to gain access.
Solution: Ensure that your smart lock always uses a complex Bluetooth authentication system with the highest levels of encryption.
Wi-Fi Invasion
Wi-Fi is a common approach for hackers to access your smart lock front door. A smart lock must be accessible through your account. To hack one, the intruder must hack into a weak smart hub or your Wi-Fi connection. Like Bluetooth sniffing, malicious parties must be close to your home’s network. If someone could access your home network, they still have much work to do.
Solution: To prevent Wi-Fi invasion, set up a strong password for your Wi-Fi and change it frequently. To make your Wi-Fi harder to find, you can also stop broadcasting it. Additionally, if you have a smart hub, be sure it is not a cheap one. If you use a reliable smart hub and have an updated firmware, the chances of this happening are rather low.
Update Issues in Software
Each smart lock has a corresponding smartphone app that controls it. Although this software is always meant to be updated with the most recent firmware, it occasionally is not.
Because some locks contain associated apps incompatible with more recent firmware updates, your lock may be vulnerable to hackers. That is why you must constantly update the firmware on your smart devices. Connecting to the lock’s Wi-Fi lets you check to see if you have the latest firmware version.
Solution: Install a backup lock on your door that you could use if the smart lock breaks. Do you have another entrance or exit to your property? Then you might want to use a conventional lock so you always have a backup entrance or exit.
Smart Locks for Home
Smart locks are incredibly practical and can boost your home’s security. However, it is crucial to remember that they are not infallible. Although they are superior to traditional locks, they need extra diligence and security precautions to ensure they are not in jeopardy.
Smart Lock From MacArthur Locks & Doors
Do you think you might buy a smart lock now that you know more about them? If you do, do not simply rely on a cheap smart lock front door to secure your home! Instead, trust only the best smart locks from MacArthur Locks & Doors. Our locksmith DC experts have experience in smart lock installation. Our locksmiths serve homes and businesses in the DMV area and the nearby cities, offering a wide range of commercial locksmith and emergency locksmith services to ensure your property is kept securely locked up.
To ensure that your home, workplace, or automobile is always kept safe, we only work with the best locksmiths in the industry. For more information on the best smart lock, call us at (202) 760-4589 from 6 am to 11 pm, seven days a week.
