The SimplySafe security systems Meh sold may simply not be that safe...
16So yeah, the SimplySafe devices’ accessories transmit their status to the hub on a frequency that can be easily overwhelmed/jammed by a $2 transmitter available online. This means a burglar could stop a door sensor from setting off the alarm when they open it simply by holding down a button for the time the door is open:
Advice from the security researcher since there is no effective protection from this attack:
- add a remotely accessible camera to your system and monitor it whenever you get a “Wireless Interference Detected” notification (with the caveat that the system is not always able to detect the interference)
- do not use the stickers that come with the kit that tell people your home is protected by SimplySafe - get a sticker from some other alarm/monitoring company if you think a sticker deters would-be robbers.
saw this on BoingBoing and thought anyone who bought these should know
- 6 comments, 5 replies
- Comment
OR…use the SimplySafe stickers with a different brand and watch the bad guys get caught!
Ha. I saw this yesterday on LPL’s channel but I forgot to check if it was the same brand that meh sold.
I’ve never used any stickers or signs to advertise the existence of a security system. If they try, they’ll get caught. If they’re smart enough to determine the type of system in use with no help and know how to defeat it, then nothing short of Indiana Jones or Laura Croft style hidden death traps would stop them anyway.
That being said, they could engineer a better system that uses 2 way communication with sensors, but then battery life or size becomes an issue.
KuoH
@kuoh
Like a wired system. Harder to install but better in the long run.
Anything wireless can be easily jammed. Its incredibly easy to wip one up with basic components on a breadboard and is common knowledge. But you need to know the frequency and test it. You need to know the system they have.
Getting around home “security” systems is easy in the first place if you know what they have if you want in to that particular house.
Just like door locks they are a minor detereret. Bumping locks is simple.
@lseeber “God made man; Sam Colt made men equal.”
https://www.historyandheadlines.com/march-5-1836-god-created-men-sam-colt-made-equalold-west-adage/
@lseeber
"Be not afraid of any man,
No matter what his size;
When danger threatens, call on me
And I will equalize.”
I figure the main point of a security system is to get them to rob your neighbor instead. It probably still works for that.
@sammydog01 That’s my theory as well. I figure my ADT sign (tho nonexistent alarm system) and outdoor cams (with a sign that says ‘24 hour video surveillance’) are likely enough to deter would-be robbers. Because why take the chance on my house that they’ll get caught when there countless other homes around me without “alarm systems” and (actual) cameras?! Even if they do break in, there’s nothing of real value to steal (except my new iMac, but I’m insured).
@Gypsigirl213 I have plenty of stuff worth stealing but good luck finding it under the Meh boxes.