Smart Home Tech and Home Security in Uncertain Times

As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to cause global havoc, many companies are hanging on for dear life. The necessity of working remotely and social distancing has left many industries and small businesses in a lurch, and profits are sinking. However, some companies are thriving, including those in the smart home and security arena.

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We are living in a new world now, and these companies are at the forefront. Let’s look at why this industry is booming and what you can do to make your home safer and more secure.

A Spike in Popularity

For the last several years, consumers have had a keen interest in smart home security and wireless voice-activated devices. However, since the rise of the coronavirus, this interest has grown to all-new levels of popularity. According to ABI Research, tech companies could see as much as a 30% increase in the number of smart devices ordered in just the next couple of months.

So why the sudden boost in consumer interest? It comes down to the many factors associated with protecting ourselves against the risk of getting sick. First, let’s focus on voice-activated technology, like speakers, televisions, and light switches.

Without the necessary voice technology, we have to operate these devices in our home with our hands. As we have learned, the coronavirus and many other diseases can be passed by touch, especially if we don’t wash our hands. When we can avoid touching surfaces altogether, we further reduce the risk.

While we are currently social distancing, we still might have other friends or family members at our house. And they might touch those same light switches. While our switches and appliances can be cleaned and disinfected, it can be easier to avoid the touch in the first place with smart technology.

Safety at the Front Door

Smart door locks can be locked by using voice control, thereby obviating the need to touch the lock surface. Image: Sebastian Scholz (Nuki) on Unsplash. — Many smart door locks can be locked by using voice control, thereby obviating the need to touch the lock surface. Image: Sebastian Scholz (Nuki) on Unsplash.

Utilizing smart technology can prevent the dangers of getting sick during the pandemic. However, there are other risks associated with uncertain times such as these. Currently, more people are working at home than ever before, and the result is a surge in online shopping.

More shopping means more packages dropped off at our doorsteps, which creates two complications. The first is that we don’t want to get too close to each other, even the mail carrier. The second, more sinister complication, is that a rise in package deliveries also means an increase in doorstep theft.

Homeowners are now limiting the risk of both of these factors by installing app security systems, including smart doorbells. Using these apps, users can tell when a delivery person is approaching. Then, they can verbally acknowledge receipt and have them leave the package so they don’t have to meet face to face. Properly placed video cameras can record any visitor or thief that comes near the door and record their actions. By catching them in the act, thieves can be thwarted or more easily apprehended by law enforcement agencies.

Securing Your Smart Tech

While smart tech has been on the rise, there is still apprehension among potential buyers who fear the devices can be hacked. However, this is not quite accurate. While most of these devices are truly secure on their own, it is up to the user to provide proper maintenance and updates.

One important barrier against hackers is a strong password. Many smart devices come with factory-created passwords, which hackers often know. To protect your devices, add a smart and complicated password that includes a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.

Many people tend to set and forget their smart devices, but failing to maintain and update them could be trouble. Hackers are constantly evolving, and manufacturers often release software updates to protect against these new threats. Stay protected by restarting your devices regularly and sign up for email updates from the manufacturer. This will help ensure you have the most updated version.

We are living in an unprecedented era right now, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be protected. By installing smart devices and taking your home security seriously, you will thrive in uncertain times.