Worried About Smart Lock Hacks? Here’s How to Keep Your Home Safe

My life is busy, with the girls, filming two shows, and a husband working similar hours to me – I’ve always got something on the go. So, I love the convenience of having a smart home, including smart locks installed on my doors. However, many homeowners still ask “Are smart locks safe?”

A lot of people have concerns over the security compared to traditional key locks. As with everything these days, the market is flooded with different models and brands – but how do you know what brand to trust? What should you look for? 

For me, safety is a big concern. My two little girls are growing up so fast and becoming more and more independent every day. I’m always concerned about their safety, especially now since they both know how to open a door!

 

 

But to answer your concerns, I spoke to a smart lock expert from Schlage on what to consider when buying a smart lock and what steps you should be taking to keep your lock secure.

 

How Safe Are Smart Locks For Your Home?

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Safety is always a concern, especially as our lives become more automated. It’s a bit frightening how automated our lives are becoming and homeowners need to trust the products they use. Our friends at Schlage take security very seriously and have taken the necessary steps to ensure their products are some of the safest on the market.

 

 

Are Smart Locks More Secure Than Regular Locks?

When it comes to home security, smart locks are paving the way for a safer future. Smart locks are just as secure as traditional locks but offer added features that enhance your home’s protection. 

With features like remote access, temporary digital keys, and activity logs, you can keep track of who enters your home from anywhere in the world. Did you forget to lock the door? No problem, simply lock it with your smartphone.

On top of that, with easy installation and minimal upkeep, smart locks bring convenience and peace of mind right to your doorstep. Brands like Schlage are leading the charge with their top-notch customer service and reliable electronic deadbolts. It’s why we’ve been installing them on all our projects for years.

By integrating a smart lock system into your home, you’re not just upgrading your security—you’re embracing a smarter, more secure way of living.

 

 

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Your Safe Smart Home: Protecting Yourself from Hacks

 

How Easy Are Smart Locks To Hack?

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Schlage smart locks have the highest level of security available on the market. The level of security comes down to the level of encryption. 

Schlage Locks is a premium brand that adheres to the highest standard of safety and security in all their locks using 128-bit AES encryption and data privacy. AES or Advanced Encryption Standard means that when your smartphone is interacting with the smart lock it is being encrypted at the highest level – keeping you and your data safe. 

 

DID YOU KNOW? The Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association for security, durability and finish gives Schlage a triple A grading so you know you can trust the products behind the Schlage brand.

 

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Schlage Locks Come With A Dedicated App For Added Security and Convenience

The Schlage Home App provides convenience, peace of mind, and remote entry management. Users can keep track of who has codes and for how long using the Activity Log in the Schlage Home App. The App allows for the creation of up to 100 unique access codes. I know I haven’t assigned that many codes so clearly, I need to find more friends!

 

 

There’s also a temporary code feature which I love. This feature enables the code to be “active” for a period of time and then “deactivated”, once the task or service has been completed. Again, this adds an extra layer of control and security around who enters and exits your home or property. Ideal, for dog walkers, babysitters, or a service call when you are not able to be home.

However, users need to be diligent when it comes to code management. Adhere to a regular maintenance schedule and consider the following tips to avoid hackers or security breaches.

 

Will A Smart Lock Work Without WIFI?

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Smart locks, like the Schlage Encode and Encode Plus, are built with both Bluetooth and WIFI connectivity so they work even when you don’t have internet, plus they have a battery backup, so you are always covered.

 

 

What Happens When The Power Is Off? Will I Be Locked Outside Or Can The Smart Lock Be Hacked?

One common question we hear a lot about smart locks is how well they work in the event of a power outage. The good news is that Schlage smart locks run on batteries, so even when the power goes off, they will still function. Just because the lights go out, you won’t have to worry about becoming locked out or risking the safety of your house.

Moreover, a common misconception is that smart locks are hackable. To prevent hacking attempts, Schlage smart locks are built with cutting-edge encryption and security measures. With the added advantages of modern-day technology, these locks provide security measures that are on the same level as or even better than those of traditional locks. 

With a Schlage smart lock, you can be sure that your house is safe and secure whether the electricity is on or off.

 

What Happens When The Battery Dies On a Smart Lock —How Do You Open The Door?

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Are you worried about what happens if the battery in your smart lock dies? Most smart locks are designed with a backup plan in place. Typically, these locks come equipped with a traditional key option, ensuring you can always access your home, even if the battery runs out. Moreover, many smart locks offer multiple battery life notifications, so encountering a dead battery situation is extremely rare.

When it comes to Schlage smart locks, they take this a step further. You’ll receive advance notice of low battery life via a blinking light on the lock. Plus, if your lock is connected to the Schlage Home app, you can monitor battery life directly from your smartphone. 

Schlage recommends using a premium alkaline battery for all their electronic locks to ensure optimal performance. With these thoughtful features, Schlage ensures that your home’s security is never compromised, keeping you informed and prepared.

 

Additional Tips To Help Keep Your Smart Lock Secure Against Hackers

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1. Ensure you set a unique password that meets the recommended “difficulty” level when setting up your account in the app. 
2. Don’t share your code with anyone, create temporary codes or unique access codes to monitor who is coming and going
3. Update your password regularly
4. Change the batteries to ensure you don’t lose power to the lock
5. Keep your smartphone locked so your smart lock’s mobile app cannot be accessed by unauthorized users.
6. Use scheduling to limit access for guests, tradespeople, dog walkers, etc. 
7. Keep up with software and firmware updates for your smart lock and your mobile app

 

 

How Do You Pick The Right Smart Lock For Your Home?

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When it comes to picking the right smart lock for your home, there are a few things to consider.

• Advanced Security Features: Look for anti-tamper sensors, built-in alarms, and reinforced strike plates to deter intruders.
• Integration with Home Security Systems: Choose a smart lock that seamlessly integrates with your existing home security setup for centralized control and monitoring.
• Remote Access and Monitoring: Opt for locks with remote access capabilities via smartphone apps for added convenience and security.
• Backup Power Source: Ensure the lock has a backup power source to maintain security during power outages.
• Ease of Installation and Compatibility: Consider compatibility with your door and existing hardware, as well as the ease of installation.
• User Authentication Methods: Evaluate the authentication options offered by the lock, such as PIN codes, biometrics, or keycards, to ensure flexibility and security.
• Customer Reviews and Reputation: We always say do your research. Look at customer reviews and the manufacturer’s reputation to get an idea of their reliability and performance.

 

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Schlage Smart Locks Have Added Safety Features To Protect Against Hackers

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When it comes to our projects, home security is always a top priority. That’s why we’re picky about the smart locks we choose – they must be reliable and tough enough to keep our clients’ homes safe.

 

 

Here are some additional features we love about Schlage and also why we’ve been installing them for years:

 

High-Quality Keypad

Schlage smart locks are known for their awesome keypads – they’re built tough and super easy to use. What’s great is that they are made from top-quality materials, so they can handle whatever you throw at them, whether it’s daily use or occasional taps. 

Plus, they’re designed with simplicity in mind, so punching in your code and getting into your home is a piece of cake. 

 

Auto-Lock Feature

The auto-lock feature is key for me. I always seem to be in a rush with the kids, work etc. and this feature is indispensable for me. Instead of running back to the house to check the door, all I have to do is remember to look at the App on my phone and I can confirm that my exterior doors are indeed locked! 

 

Tamper-Resistant Built-In Alarm

The tamper-resistant built-in alarm is another great feature as you will be notified right away that someone or something is wrong and you can take the appropriate action to further investigate even if you are not home at the time. I love the added protection.

Schlage locks are manufactured using high-quality and durable materials and fingerprint-resistant keypads for added security. Plus, they are resistant to humidity and can operate in extreme temperatures.

 

 

I love smart locks and with regular software maintenance and updated passcodes, your home will be safe and secure for years to come. Not to mention the added convenience.

 

*Disclaimer: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links. 

 

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