How to Hack-Proof Your Wireless Security System
August 22, 2019 Blog 0 CommentAs the evolution of technology progresses, security systems have made huge advancements in terms of overall safety, functionality, and security. Gone are the days of fully wired security systems that can be disabled with just a quick snip. Today, wireless security systems are the norm and it enables homeowners to provide their property with the level of protection they need, all without using any cables. These systems can alert the right authorities and trigger an alarm using wireless signals (internet connection).
While wireless security systems are beneficial for home security, there’s one major risk to look out for; getting hacked by sharp-witted burglars. Since it’s wireless, hackers can invade your security system and enter your property. But don’t be afraid as there are a couple of steps you can do to ensure that your wireless security system is hack-proof as possible.
Today we’ll be discussing how you can hack-proof your property and ensure your wireless system is working 24/7.
What is a wireless home security system
As the name implies, a wireless home security system is a means of home monitoring that doesn’t use a wired connection to operate. It’s made up of high-tech wireless sensors that communicate with each other wirelessly. These sensors notify you if there is a potential break-in or fire hazard on your property. A central control panel serves as the brainpower of these sensors where it transmits signals to the outside world.
There are plenty of benefits to using a wireless home security system. The main advantage is convenience. Wireless security systems are a breeze to install and it doesn’t require you to make any modifications to your home. It’s portable and it can be taken along with you when you decide to move house. Another benefit is having remote access to your data. You can monitor your property anywhere you go and it monitors your home 24/7.
Are wireless security systems safe?
Both wired and wireless security systems have their fair share of pros and cons. Wired security systems are much cheaper to set up and relies on a telephone line to connect to the monitoring service of your choice. It doesn’t use batteries so there’s no need for you to worry about charging them. But in the event of a power outage, you lose your home security.
Wireless security systems, on the other hand, have more advanced security features such as window sensors, motion detectors, keypad entry, and more. It integrates seamlessly with home automation, allowing you to adjust security settings remotely. Since wireless security systems rely on batteries to operate, you don’t have to worry about losing your home security if a power outage occurs.
Wireless security systems are safe as long as you conduct regular service and maintenance. This ensures that there is no interference between the wireless signals to avoid getting hacked and triggering false alarms.
How to hack-proof your wireless security system
Savvy criminals can still force entry to your home by hacking your wireless security system. But you can make their efforts futile by hack-proofing your home security. Here’s how:
Have a password that’s difficult to figure out.
Just like your password on your personal accounts, you should also protect your WiFi network to avoid getting hacked. Think of a password that’s hard for the average person to guess by using a combination of letters, symbols, and numbers. You can take it a step further by using different passwords for different home security codes. This will make it impossible for the burglar to guess your password and hack your wireless security system.
Share the passwords with trusted family members only. If you think your WiFi has been compromised, it’s a good idea to change passwords immediately.
Make sure your wireless network is encrypted.
Encryption is a cybersecurity measure that uses coding signals that only a number of authorized devices can read. When you enable encryption, you’re blocking others from stealing the bandwidth you’re paying for. Basically, encryption scrambles all the information you send on a code so others won’t have access to it. All routers are different, but with a little digging around you should have no issues finding the encryption settings on your specific router.
Fortify your home security
You can take your home security system a step further by investing in anti-jammer. Anti-jammer are designed to detect risks of signal jamming. Current versions of anti-jammers come with a downloadable app on your smartphone that alerts you when a signal failure arises. This allows you to rectify any issues immediately and ensure your wireless network remains uninterrupted.
Always update your home automation regularly to enhance its performance and add new security features. Security system companies release new updates to counter any threats to your home security and deter hackers from accessing your wireless devices.\
Check your camera logs.
If you have IP cameras installed, make it a habit to check the IP history of the system regularly. This will inform you if a stranger has attempted to access your security system from an unidentified IP address. Also, avoid purchasing used camera systems as these can carry an implanted device that can be used by criminals to hack into your wireless security system.
Don’t forget the basics.
It’s true that wireless security systems can help boost your home security, but that doesn’t mean you should rely on it as your only means of protection. It’s crucial to stick to the basics like installing adequate lighting and using strong window and door locks. A little extra care and precaution can go a long way towards ensuring that your home is safe and protected from burglars and criminals.