Is Your Home Security System at Risk of Being Hacked?

Home security systems have come a long way in the last several years. Today, you can secure your home and keep a visible watch over it even when you are away. Voice activation locks make it super convenient to manage your security even when your hands are not free. No doubt, our smart security systems far surpass old-fashioned systems. However, there are still some vulnerabilities to these systems that older systems simply did not encounter.

Smart systems are at risk of being hacked. Understanding where the vulnerabilities lie and how to safeguard against them will help you keep your home secured and safe 24/7.

Can My Home Security System Be Hacked?

Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes. Any type of smart device that is connected to the internet can in theory be hacked. However, the chances of your system actually being hacked are very slim. These chances are even further decreased if your security company has digital security best practices in place.

What Makes a Home Security System Easy to Hack?

You should understand that all systems are not equally vulnerable to hacking. There are certain factors that would make a system easier to hack than another system. Some of these factors are things you can control and some are things you cannot control. Let’s look at a few of these factors.

Missing or weak passwords. The passwords for a security system should be long and complicated. Although many people like to avoid using long, complicated passwords because they are difficult to remember, this is exactly what you want when it comes to your home’s security system. If you do not make the effort to create a secure password, you are creating a vulnerability for your system.

Missing authentication. A truly strong security system will have two-factor authentication. This means that along with a secure password, there will also be another authentication step that will further secure the system. This could be a passcode sent to connected devices or even fingerprints or facial recognition. A two-step authentication process is a good way to further secure your home.

Data breaches. A data breach at the company your system is run through could also create a vulnerability. If this happens, companies are required to inform you quickly so that you can create new authentication for your system.

Types of Hacking

There are different types of hacking that can take place. Hacking can include:

• Blocking access
• Gaining access through another device
• Collecting data

Note that not all security system hacking is directly connected to gaining access to your home. Hackers may be even more interested in accessing your personal information or payment information through the company.

How Hacking Happens

Hacking can take place through a few different methods as well.

Phishing. Phishing is a type of account in which phony emails are sent to you requesting your authentication credentials. The email will appear to be legitimate but there will be small differences that can tip you off. Any time you receive a communication asking for authentication credentials, be sure to double-check the source of the email before responding.

Programing Hacking. This requires a hacker to gain full access to the system and is much harder to accomplish. This type of hack, however, can be more devastating as it pertains to data breaches.

Categorised in: Home Security

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