ADT Home Security Settlement
ADT home security is facing a class-action lawsuit. The plaintiffs allege that ADT failed to disclose wireless sensors’ vulnerability to evasion and jamming.
Why should you care? Although this settlement is for ADT, this is a vulnerability all wireless security systems face.
Let’s talk about wireless technology for a second. All home Wi-Fi networks are vulnerable to hacking. Companies developed several wireless protocols to protect home wireless networks (keep uninvited guests off your network, encrypt your data, etc.), but they are still hackable.
Encryption Protocols
The encryption protocols used to protect home wireless networks include WEP, WPA, and WPA2. You can do things to make it harder to hack these protocols, such as changing default Wi-Fi network names and setting complex passwords, but that still doesn’t mean they’re foolproof. Don’t believe us? Check out how easy it was in this article from TrendMicro.
Home Alarm Jammers
Another way that wireless home security systems can fail is home alarm jammers. It exists to block the radio signals that allow the sensors and keypad monitor on your home security system to communicate with one another. If the sensors can’t talk to the monitor, a burglar can open a window or door without triggering an alarm.
Monitoring Services
Finally, many wireless home security systems don’t include monitoring services in their costs. It makes the system less expensive, but it also means that your alarm will not notify the police and fire department in an emergency.
There are lots of advantages to wireless technology, don’t get us wrong. Wireless technology has made it possible for home security systems to be easier to install and use our cell phones to see who is at the front door. It’s impressive stuff, but don’t let slick commercials and ads for DIY home security lull you into a false sense of safety.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Residential vs. Business Security
What is the difference between a commercial and a residential security system? Commercial real estate is a property type that is only for business or retail purposes. Residential real estate is a property type specifically designed for living purposes, if it is four units or less– anything larger than that is considered a commercial property….
How Do Residential Fire Sprinklers Work?
Residential units are essential pieces of many commercial and mixed-use developments. Whether you’re building townhomes, low-rise apartment complexes, or single-family dwellings, fire protection requirements extend beyond nearby commercial spaces. Builders and general contractors must understand how residential fire sprinkler systems work, how they differ from commercial systems, and which codes apply to different projects. While…
How Burglars Break In and Where to Secure Your Home
When a burglar considers your home as a potential target, here are some of the things he or she is looking for. Easy Access An intruder doesn’t want to get caught and needs to have an easy escape. There’s not a more easily accessible entry point at your home than an unlocked door, and most…
Analog vs. IP Cameras: Key Differences
When you are considering different security systems and potentially implementing surveillance cameras into your home or business, a big question is whether you want IP or analog cameras. Global Market Insights estimates that the IP camera market will be worth more than 20 billion by 2025. With today’s technology both IP and analog systems can be viewed…
Why Are Fire Hydrants Different Colors?
The eye-catching colors of a fire hydrant are hard to miss, whether you’re walking through a city or driving around a neighborhood. What many don’t realize, however, is that these colors are integral in helping emergency responders identify and assess their available resources when preparing to fight a fire. Fire hydrant colors are distinct to…
Ins and Outs of Contract vs No Contract Security Systems
Many people see signing a long-term contract with a reputable alarm company as a stressful experience. In truth, contracts are in place to benefit both the alarm company and the homeowner. Developing a relationship and signing a long-term commitment to a security company allows you to get to know a team and benefit from the peace of mind that…
What are the Best Outdoor Security Cameras?
Outdoor security cameras do more than record what happens around a property—they help you see clearly, respond faster, and document events when you need answers. Whether you’re protecting your home’s front porch and driveway or monitoring your company’s parking lot, loading dock, or perimeter gate, the “best” outdoor security camera is the one that fits…
How Often Should You Check Your Smoke Detectors?
Fire Alarm Testing Whether your fire alarm is protecting your home or a commercial facility, regular testing of your fire alarm system is critical to ensure it is working correctly. This test guarantees that everyone occupying the home or office understands what to do when the fire alarm sounds, gives you a chance to check…
DIY Home Security Cameras
DIY Security Systems Are the New Fad There are many pre-configured, DIY home security system kits on the market. They are sold under various brand names including Ring, Nest, SimpliSafe, and others. The basic idea of a DIY home security system is that you pay one low fee to purchase all of the equipment and…
Advantages of Having an Alarm System
There are a lot of advantages to having an alarm system. For starters, the National Council for Home Safety and Security says that homes without an alarm system are three times as likely to get burglarized. 3 Benefits of Alarm Systems Peace of mind Protecting your home from intruders is one of the most common…