10 Ways Your Home Security System Is Working Against You

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When it comes to home security, the conventional wisdom is that the more layers of protection you add, the better. And, after all, who wouldn’t want to feel safer, right? But what if your home security system, which is supposed to be your fortress, is really more trouble than safety?

These systems have become second nature and often we trust them implicitly, allowing them to watch over us as we sleep, at work, or while on vacation. But, as with most things in life, they are not perfect. So, let’s break down a few reasons why your home security system is working against you, and not helping you.

You (and Your Neighbors) Are Going Crazy Over False Alarms

Nighttime Rituals Successful CEOs Do Before Bed — Photo Credit : Pikwizard

Picture this: at 2 a.m. the security alarm starts blaring and you jump out of bed in a panic. Was it an intruder? Nope. It turns out it was the wind, a squirrel, or perhaps even your cat knocking something over. One of the most common problems with home security systems are false alarms, which not only break your peace but also annoy your neighbors. The more false alarms you get, the more likely you are to ignore them and that’s when real threats slip through the cracks.

It Overwhelms You With Complicated Controls

A home security system should make your life easier, not frustrate you by being too complicated to set up. If the control panel looks like something from a spaceship, or if the app is filled with options you don’t understand, you may have trouble just arming and disarming it. If the system is too complex to manage, you won’t use it as often as you should, creating holes in your security.

It’s a Hassle to Maintain and Update

Your security system is like any other tech device, it needs regular maintenance to work at its best. There’s always something that needs attention: replacing batteries, updating software, cleaning sensors. If you’re not keeping on top of these tasks, your system may not work when you need it most. Let’s face it, most of us don’t have time to fuss with frequent updates or maintenance routines.

When Power Goes Out, You Are Vulnerable

Regardless of how sophisticated your system is, it probably relies on electricity to function. During a storm or emergency, when you need your security system most, it could go down if a power outage hits. Some systems have backup batteries, but they don’t last forever. During a blackout, feeling exposed and unprepared without protection can be an awful feeling.

Indoor Cameras and Privacy

Smart home devices. Security camera. — Photo Credit: Jakub Zerdzicki/Pexels

Indoor cameras can be a double edged sword with many home security systems. It’s nice to keep an eye on things when you’re away, but it also means there is a camera in your living space at all times. But if you’re the type of person who worries about someone watching or recording without your consent, having cameras in your home can make you feel worse, not better.

Your Data May Make Your Home Unsafe

Many modern security systems are internet connected so you can control them remotely. But this convenience can be expensive. According to Security.org, if your system is not well protected, hackers can get access to your cameras, personal information or even disable the system. The irony is that the technology we use to protect our home may be the one that is letting cyber threats in.

Subscription Fees Add Up

Woman Counting Money and Paying Bills with Sadness — Photo Credit: Karolina Kaboompics/Pexels

Often, security systems have hidden costs. You purchase the equipment up front, but then you’re paying monthly subscription fees for monitoring services, cloud storage, or more features. And these costs can really add up, and if you’re not careful, you could be stuck in a long term contract you can’t get out of.

Your Nerves Are Worn Down by Constant Notifications

It’s nice to be in the know, but constant alerts from your security system can make you feel more anxious than secure. Your phone buzzes every time the motion sensor picks up the slightest movement. Is it a leaf blowing by or a burglar? If your system is too sensitive, you could be stuck on your phone worrying about everything. It is so mentally exhausting that at some point you will find yourself tuning out notifications all together, and that defeats the purpose of having the system in the first place.

It can Be Buggy With Other Smart Devices

While many home security systems promise easy integration with other smart home devices, the connection can be glitchy. If your security system can’t sync with your smart locks, lights or thermostats, you may find yourself stuck with bugs and technical hiccups. Instead, this can complicate managing your home more than simplifying it.

Complacency Can Be a Result of Over Reliance on Technology

A home security system can provide peace of mind, but it’s all too easy to become over reliant on it. You might be sure the system has it all covered, so you stop locking doors or checking windows. Technology isn’t foolproof, and a little human vigilance goes a long way. You don’t want to be caught off guard because you got too comfortable and your system failed or was bypassed.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.