How to Protect Your Smart Locks From Hackers

Smart locks often offer tight security for your home. For example, you can lock or unlock your door from wherever you are, provided you have your smartphone or computer. However, they're still susceptible to attack by hackers. Consequently, you should implement strict measures to protect your security details from hackers.



Discover some tips to keep your smart lock safe from hackers.

Protect Your Network

Any device that connects to the internet is a possible target for hackers. For example, your smart lock can connect to the internet via your WiFi. If you don't protect your Wi-Fi with a strong password, you expose your locks to hackers. Additionally, if you use the default password that came with your router or modem, you make it easier for hackers to guess it.

Also, hide your network from view. If you do so, your WiFi will remain hidden to potential hackers who won't bother to attack it.

Purchase the Locks From Reputable Companies

The quality of the lock you purchase impacts the safety of your home. Some manufacturers may fail to include sufficient security protocols or develop them to reduce cost. Don't settle for an inexpensive lock that compromises your home's security. On the other hand, a trusted brand ensures its locks deploy state-of-the-art security measures.

Encrypt Data

Your smart lock utilizes wireless technology like WiFi or Bluetooth. The key is sensitive to information, and anyone with wireless technology who sniffs the device can intercept the information. Ensure that the smart lock apps encrypt your key every time it broadcasts to and from the lock.

Consider 128 bit AES encryption since it is among the top encryption protocols globally. Hackers will find your encrypted keys almost impossible to hack unless they have the password or break into your encryption, which is highly unlikely.

Use Different Codes for Different Individuals

If everyone who routinely accesses your home has the same access code, your smart lock becomes more vulnerable to hackers. Modern smart locks allow you to use various codes on the same lock.

You can also create codes with an expiry date when people need to access your home for a particular period. For instance, if you have guests over on the weekend, you can set a code that will work only for that period. This way, you don't have to share your everyday code with other people.

Use the Auto Relock Feature or Set Reminders

If you always forget to lock your doors when you leave the house, you can rest easy because the auto relock feature automatically locks your door after a predefined time. Some smart locks also let you set a given time frame within which the door can open and close; thus, you can schedule auto locks. 

If the lock lacks the auto relock feature, set reminders on your phone. If anyone forgets to lock the door, you get a phone reminder after a particular time. You can then lock the door from wherever you are. 

Update the Software

Always check whether your smart lock manufacturers have released updates and patches. Updates usually protect you from newly found security loopholes or improve your smart application's functionality.

Always monitor your companion app as the auto-update feature can remain off by default. What's more, hackers can use the time frame when your software remains without updates to try and hack your lock. Therefore, update your software to address security bugs.

Smart locks are very safe and convenient, but you can make them safer if you implement extra measures to keep digital thieves and hackers out of the way. If you need to install smart locks or make inquiries about your home's safety, Dixie Safe & Lock Service is the way to go. Call us today.