Campus Journalist 
You installed a home security system to feel safer. But what if you’ve just made your home more vulnerable to attack?These days, just about every wireless device can be a target for hackers. Unfortunately, security systems are no exception. If you’re counting on a wireless security system to protect your nest, buyer beware: Nearly all of them have loopholes that tech-savvy criminals can exploit to take over.
Most wireless home security systems work in basically the same way: Sensors on the doors and windows send a radio signal to the control system inside the house. The signal is broken whenever the door or window is opened. If the system is armed, any break in the signal will set off the alarm. New devices that are readily and cheaply available on the Internet can jam the signal so the alarm never goes off. Thieves have also found ways to steal passwords to disarm the system.
Most wireless home security systems work in basically the same way: Sensors on the doors and windows send a radio signal to the control system inside the house. The signal is broken whenever the door or window is opened. If the system is armed, any break in the signal will set off the alarm. New devices that are readily and cheaply available on the Internet can jam the signal so the alarm never goes off.
How To Protect Yourself
Go wired. You could opt for a wired home security system. These are not vulnerable to hacking.
Buy a system with encrypted signals. Some new alarm systems have more sophisticated signals that broadcast on multiple channels, making it much more difficult to jam. Ask your salesperson if the signals are encrypted and look for that in the contract, along with wording on tamper resistance and jamming detection.
Don’t buy used security cameras. Buying used security camera equipment or webcams, for example, could allow hackers to more easily spy on you through an implantable device.
Be Crime Smart!!
Once you’re satisfied with your system’s security, don’t forget the usual precautions. If you do have a system, remember to turn it on. If you use real keys, all doors to the outside should have deadbolt locks; pushbutton locks are easy to thwart.
Article By – Harshita C. Jadhav
