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Smart locks are a safe choice for most households, and features like remote access and programmable schedules can make them safer than conventional locks. There are still concerns about safety, but they usually have more to do with the way families use smart locks than with the components themselves. 

Read on to explore smart lock safety and see why they’re a great fit for your Charlottesville home.

What Are The Safety Risks Of Smart Locks?

There are risks associated with smart locks, but they largely depend on your family’s own safety habits. These are the main concerns to keep in mind:

• Insecure codes: Easy-to-guess passcodes are the chief concern when using smart locks. As you might imagine, programming a code of ‘1234’ is asking for trouble. You should also avoid birth dates and other easy-to-guess numbers. 
  
  
• Smart home hacking: If someone hacks into your wireless home security system, they can proceed to force the lock open. Change your passwords on occasion, employ two-factor authentication, and always run manufacturer-issued software and firmware updates. 
  
  
• Code smudging: Touching the same buttons repeatedly can leave marks that point to your code. Change your passcode and clean off the buttons every so often.  

Internet outages and power failures may also affect your smart lock. Most will still work at the door as they run on independent battery power, but you might not be able to operate them from your app. Many models come with backup keyed locks, so you’ll have another way to get it in. 

Pro tip: Smart locks with backup keyed locks are usually built to resist bumping, a well-known intrusion technique used on conventional locks.

Why Smart Locks Are Better For Your Charlottesville Home Than Conventional Keyed Locks

It’s not challenging to understand the risk of keeping a house key in your mailbox, within a rock decoy, or under your door mat. Anyone who comes across it will have instant access to your house and your possessions inside. Even when you give a key to friends and family you trust, it can fall into the wrong hands and be easily copied at the closest hardware store. 

Thankfully, the days of relying on house keys are behind us. Smart door locks remove the need for keys and come with a variety of advanced features to strengthen your security. 

What Gives Smart Locks The Edge Over Standard Locks?

Smart locks are an integral part of modern security systems. They come with features that make them a much better option than standard locks. A couple of standouts include:

• Automated locking: You can create a rule for your door to lock on its own after a specified time period. No more worrying about leaving your door unlocked.
• Scheduling: You can program smart locks to close at specific times and incorporate them into automated routines. For instance, you could have your system arm, lights dim, and door lock simultaneously when you head to bed
• Remote access: You can always see your smart lock's status by accessing your home security app. It’s also possible to lock or unlock your door from anywhere.
• Activity updates: You’ll be notified through your smartphone app whenever a person engages the lock, keeping you informed of who’s entering and exiting.
  

On top of that, everyone who needs to get into your home can have their own personal code, so you’re not using the same one. You can grant and revoke access at any time. 

Open The Door To Modern Home Security With Secure24 Alarm Systems

Smart locks are a great addition to your new home security system in Charlottesville. Connect with the ADT-authorized dealers at Secure24 Alarm Systems to design your full-featured protection today. Place a call to (434) 214-6134 today and get same-day and next-day service in most locations.