Burglar alarm/smartphone app

PunkRoquefort

I have the option of having a smart system added to my new burglar alarm system, but worry about the risk of someone being able to hack/disable it, so they have access to my house.

What are your views on adding this feature to a new alarm system?

I have already decided against a swipe keyfob gadget, to save me entering a code on my keypad. I could see myself worrying about losing it while out and about.

Thank you.

flaneurs_lobster

Rather depends on the level of control that is granted to the "smart" bit of the system.

How much of the system is already "online" before the smarts are added?

If it's just being able to monitor what some cameras are seeing then probably not too much of a risk.

If the system allows you disarm the entire system from your mobile, which has its passcode set to '1234' then that's a bigger risk.

PunkRoquefort

I will not be having cameras. I will have a sounder outside and several sensors inside. I am getting a push button keypad. The sensors are wired.

If I choose the smartphone add-on, I will be able to see the status of my alarm, plus switch it on and off. It will inform me if the alarm is triggered.

Is it safer to have the non-smart tech, so at least it cannot be hacked?

MyRealNameToo

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81921609#Comment_81921609

Depends, is it something thats physically added to the system or is the functionality already there but you can't access it unless you pay for it? Obviously with the later a theoretical vulnerability exists either way.

If its safer is a very subjective question… in theory if you go on a 3 month holiday and realise just after you get off the plane that you forgot to set the alarm you could check and do it with the app whereas if you have no app you could be worrying about what's happening at home for the whole trip.

Only you can decide how the extra security of being able to deal with mistakes and respond to alerts balances against the risk someone could gain access to the system.

Lorian

Dont put your name or address anywhere in the app and make sure you set up security on it, like biometrics.