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It seems everywhere I turn, someone in my neighborhood, is using a smart lock, one of the companies being August Smart Lock. As a curious user, I was wondering if it was possible for an August smart lock to be hacked? I did some research and this is what I found.
Can August Smart Lock be hacked? It is possible for August Smart Lock to be hacked, but it is not common. August Smart Lock is connected to the user’s Wi-Fi, and can also be paired to smart devices through Bluetooth. This makes it possible for hackers to manipulate the smart lock through other connections. This is rare, but possible.
If you are interested in learning more about August Smart Lock, how people can hack into your August Smart Lock, and much more keep reading.
What is August Smart Lock?
The August Smart Lock was first available October 14, 2015. Since then, they’ve had a lot of improvements. So many people may be wondering, what is an August Smart Lock?
The August Smart Lock is an automatic door lock that can be set apart from others with its easy DIY (Do it Yourself) setup installation in minutes. You don’t need a professional to come in and install the door lock, August sends you what you need.
The smart lock is wireless, which means it is hooked up through Wi-Fi, Z-Wave Plus and Bluetooth which allows your smartphone to now be a smart key. You can create virtual keys for guest and keep track of who comes and goes all from your smartphone.
What Comes in the August Smart Lock Kit?
The first thing it comes with is the August Smart Lock. This is the main unit of your smart lock that keeps your door secure, keyless entry to your smart home.
The next thing it comes with is the door sensors. The door sensors allow you to see via app if the door unlocks with a green circle and a red circle when it’s locked.
Next, it includes four AA standard alkaline batteries which should last around 6 months. When the batteries are close to depletion you should get an alert through the app.
Next, it includes a mounting plate which the August Smart Lock latches too.
Lastly, it includes a Lock Adapter.
Also, August Smart Lock works with:
- Amazon Alexa
- Apple HomeKit
- Google Home
- Nest
- Ring Alarm
- Airbnb
- HomeAway
- Logitech Pop
- Xfinity Home
- Wink
- Honeywell
- IFTTT
- Stringify
- Liberty Mutual
- Z-Wave Alliance
- SimpliSafe
- Alarm.com Security Systems
- SmartThings
4 Ways People Can Hack into Your August Smart Lock
The August Smart Lock was released a couple of years ago, and since then there have been no reported hacks into the August Smart Lock that I have been able to find, but Jmaxxz a software engineer, security expert, and white-hat hacker showed a demo presentation of August Smart Locks vulnerabilities of a break-in.
Smart locks are still quite new and are vulnerable to cyber and physical hackers. I found that there were several ways to hack into a smart lock such as the August Smart Lock. These ways include:
1. Signal Interception
Most smart locks are compatible with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi which the signals are wireless. Hackers can use those signals to get the password.
2. Password Cracking
Most people have weak passwords that allow hackers to tempered with and easily have control of your smart lock. I recommend LastPass to generate a strong password that will create long, randomized passwords to protect against hacking.
3. Attacks by Malware
Since smart lock are connected to the internet it is possible to be attacked by Malware.
4. Audio Transducer (Using Voice to Hack A Smart Lock)
How to Prevent Hacks into Your August Smart Lock
Unfortunately, there is always a risk that someone intelligent enough can past any form of contingency we use to protect ourselves and precious items.
There are several ways a smart lock can be hacked, so how do you prepare for them? Honestly, you really can’t but you can be more prepared.
You can make sure everything is working properly. Try unlocking the door and make sure you get a notification. You can also run weekly or monthly checks in which you can lock and unlock with your smartphone and make sure everything is working as advertised. You can also make sure batteries are working
If you notice something isn’t working properly, contact the smart lock company immediately. For simple needs, August support can walk you through what to do with troubleshooting.
For urgent needs, August Support is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Contact August at support@august.com, or call: 1 (844)-284-8781.
Contact August and ask for support. August support via email: support@august.com, or call: 1 (844)-284-8781
What to Do if You Think Your August Smart Lock is Being Hacked
If you any speculation that your August Smart Lock isn’t working or not doing what it is supposed to do there are a few measures you can take.
First, check to see if everything is working properly. You could just have a dead battery or something could’ve been installed incorrectly causing it not to work.
If you still having a problem go to August support for help. I will put the link to August troubleshooting here.
For any reason you think you are in danger, please contact your local authorities immediately. Your safety always comes first when dealing with these sorts of things.
Related Questions
What if I lose My Phone?
If your phone is lost or stolen, you can log-in to august.com/lostphone and remove access authorization for your phone. If your phone is just misspaced but you still need access to your home, you can log into your account from a friend, neighbor’s or family member phone until you can retrieve your device.
What if My Smart Phone Battery Dies?
If this happens, you can still use your original physical key or you can log into your account by using a friend or neighbor’s phone.
How will I know if My Smart Lock Batteries Need to Be Replaced?
You will be notified that your batteries are low by a red flashing light on the August Smart Lock or a notification from the August app.
Conclusion
Many people are still unsure when it comes to smart locks and their safety but like so many “Internet of Things” devices are also vulnerable to hacks. There is always a risk that a net-enabled device will get hacked.
August Smart Lock works with your existing deadbolt which means it has the same level of security as traditional locks. But if your concerns are over security, you should consider purchasing a security system, video cameras, or other security devices to protect home.
But with the being said, it’s a decision you have to decide, when it comes to a smart lock like August Smart Lock, security over convenience?
Please, don’t forget to check out our recommended gadgets for the best tech for your buck.
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It's great to see that you have come across my website. I hope you explore it thoroughly. The website caters to regular consumers who have an interest in home automation. I am based in the Tri-state area and enjoy the latest smart tech along with my wonderful wife and three energetic boys.
