Smart lock security, unlocked

Smart locks are quickly becoming commonplace in homes. From rental properties to traditional, country-style homes, smart locks are one of the most in-demand security products in today’s connected world.

But, although the popularity of smart locks continues to grow, security concerns still pose a worry to security-conscious homeowners.

At Yale, we believe that smart locks pose many significant benefits to homeowners. From convenience, by monitoring your smart lock using just a smartphone, to control and even peace of mind, by being able to check in on your home with the touch of a button, the credentials of a smart lock are hugely beneficial to the modern-day homeowner.

But to reassure those dubious homeowners who are concerned over the security of smart locks, our experts have shared this detailed information on how we achieve heightened security with our range. Read on to find out more about our dedication to smart security technology, and how you can ensure your smart lock is up to scratch.

Are smart locks secure?

Although smart locks appear to be popping up around homes across the world, the nature of such technology still poses some concerns for homeowners. Although many move towards smart locks for convenience, they should, first and foremost, also provide significant security for homes.

Smart security technology, by nature, has different elements to its security credentials to their traditional mechanical counterparts. Of course, mechanical security is threatened by physical attacks carried out by an individual or group, but smart security does have the additional risk of sophisticated cyber-attacks too.

But, when opting for a smart lock from a reputable, trusted brand in the security space, these security credentials will be of the utmost importance. Of course, style and design are key factors in the creation of smart locks, but for brands that pride themselves on their home protection, smart locks require the same, if not more, focus on security than the door locks of the past.

From the perspective of Yale, with over 180 years of experience in the home security sector, we utilise this knowledge to tackle any issues posed by smart technology. This requires ongoing and in-depth testing, undertaken by a trusted, independent body, to ensure the products stand up to the mark in terms of industry standards.

Each country across the world will have their own security standards which must be adhered to. But by opting for a smart lock from a trusted brand name in the security industry, you will be able to rest assured that these will have been rigorously tested to ensure heightened security.

For example, our range of smart locks require each user to follow a strict set of security processes to ensure the protection of their product is at its highest level. Each user of the lock will be required to provide two-factor authentication to verify their identity via a ‘bank-grade’ level of security. This authentication is necessary, as it plays an integral part of protecting a front door from hackers.

With this strong foundation put in place by our Yale experts, it helps put homeowners in a protected position, but there are also things that you can do to ensure your smart lock is at its highest level of security.

Routine audits

Completing regular checks and audits of your smart lock will ensure that its security is up to scratch. Firstly, any passwords used to operate the lock should be routinely updated and recorded in a secure location, as these regular updates will make it much more difficult for hackers to potentially gain access to your lock.

Staying up to date

Alongside checks of your smart lock, for homeowners with mobile connected smart locks, they will need to ensure that their device is updated to the latest software version available, as this can occasionally impact the functionality of the lock. This could, in turn, impact the useability of the lock, which may hinder the functions or even security of the product. Opting for the best app for your particular smart lock is also paramount.

Fitting your smart lock

Although most high quality smart locks are designed for easy installation, if you’re a competent DIYer fitting their own smart lock, it’s important to ensure this is done so correctly.

An incorrectly installed smart lock not only will negatively impact its performance, but it could also tamper with the security of the product.

We understand that some homeowners will struggle to fit their own smart lock, so if you’re considering investing in a smart lock, it’s worthwhile to opt for professional installation by a trusted tradesperson. Some of these tradespeople may be experts in smart security technology and will quickly and easily be able to correctly install your new smart lock, removing any security concerns.

Research, research, research

If you still have certain reservations over a smart lock, but are considering taking the plunge soon, the best thing you can do is undertake you own independent research online.

There is a wide variety of smart locks on the market right now. Which is why it’s important to explore which brands will work best for your home, the products that are certified and exceed any security credentials, and which match with your interior design scheme.

With research, you can rest assured that you have clarified the security of the chosen product you are looking at investing in and provide you with the peace of mind that your home, family and belongings will be secure.

How do I install a smart lock?

As mentioned, making sure your smart lock is installed correctly is an essential process to ensure heightened security with your new smart setup.

With there being such an array of smart locks on the market today, there are different installation options which allow homeowners to opt for the most sufficient product for their needs.

For example, some smart locks require you to remove your current door lock setup to fully replace it, whereas some designs can be retrofitted to your current lock or nightlatch. The type of smart lock you will need will often be impacted by your door type. For example, homeowners with a wooden door will require a nightlatch, so could opt for a smart lock that is retrofitted for easy, secure installation.

Alternatively, for uPVC or composite doors, a smart lock designed to be the full system, including the lock, will most likely be the best option.

This is again where we re-emphasise the importance of research when you’ve decided to invest in a smart lock. With different lock design options for different door types, it may be that a certain lock has great benefits, and is more suitable to your home’s style, making it a preferrable option.

How do I choose the right smart lock for me?

Although door type will have a major impact on the most appropriate smart lock for your home, there are other factors in choosing the right smart lock for you and your family. These include:

• your security needs
• your style preferences
• and your budget

Within this framework, there are also different smart lock options available that offer different entry methods to the home including through PIN codes, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.

PIN codes entry methods are handy for homes that require access using different credentials. Most PIN code-operated smart locks offer entry through a key tag, card, fob and PIN codes, which make it great if your home has plenty of trusted visitors, for example, if you require a carer who regularly needs access to your property.

Bluetooth is another handy entry mechanism that allows users to control their smart lock when in close enough proximity.

Many smart locks today utilise Bluetooth technology to allow for seamless entry into the home, whereby a smartphone is detected from a certain distance, unlocking the door without the need for a key. This has been a great help for busy families who always have their hands full, or for those who just want a slick entry into their property, with no keys or buttons in sight.

Wi-Fi connected smart locks offer the next step in smart security technology, whereby they often allow for remote control of a smart lock from afar.

Whether that’s checking your door is locked from you sun lounger on your summer break, to seeing a clear audit trail of activity around your property when you’re at work, Wi-Fi connected smart locks offer convenience and control over a front door.

With smart locks set to be the smart gadget of choice in the years to come, now is a great time to catch up on all the latest developments in the smart lock market to prepare for the future of front door locks.

With plenty of designs and products available, from leading brands such as Yale, you can rest assured that you can find a smart lock that suits your requirements, style and security needs that is tailored to you.