Are Keyless Entry Locks Safe?

From offices to retail to manufacturing, the traditional key has been replaced by digital pads, fingerprint scanners, smartcards, and mobile credentials. That sounds good, but are keyless entry locks actually safe?

Let's explore this pressing concern right now!

The Anatomy of Keyless Entry Systems

Before we tackle the question of safety, it's crucial to understand what we're dealing with. Keyless entry systems replace mechanical keys with digital, knowledge-based, or biometric authentication methods.

Digital Keypads: Enter a code to unlock the door.

Smart Locks: Transmits unlock requests and identifying data via smartphone apps.

Biometric Scanners: Scan fingerprints and irises for rigorous security.

RFID and NFC: Using transmitters, cards, and fobs to transmit identifying data contained on microchips for ID verification.

Are Keyless Entry Locks Safe?

All right, let's cut to the chase. Are keyless entry locks safe?

The short answer is yes but with caveats. Considering that a burglary happens once every 25.7 seconds, according to ADT, the need for robust security measures is more pressing than ever.

Keyless entry locks improve security and enhance convenience, but they aren’t foolproof.

Here's the lowdown.

Pros of Keyless Entry Systems

Remote Control: Lock or unlock doors, review live information and stored audit trails, and instantly add, revoke, or adjust access privileges.

User Tracking: Know who's coming and going with automated entry logs and easy-to-use audit trails.

Temporary Access: Grant temporary access remotely without making duplicate keys.

Easy Deactivation and Replacement: Lost mechanical keys can be a huge expense, starting with the need to post physical guards until old locks are changed. With modern access control, credentials can be instantly deactivated as soon as their loss is reported.

Cons of Keyless Entry Systems

Hacking Risks: Like any digital system, access control systems are susceptible to hacking. You can reduce cyber threats by keeping up-to-date with software updates, changing factory password settings, requiring two-factor authentication, and using trustworthy brands and knowledgeable installers.

Power Requirements: Unlike manual key systems, modern access control requires a power source to function optimally. If the property you need to secure doesn’t have a backup generator, consider systems with battery backups or acceptable workarounds for power outages.

Best Practices for Ensuring Safety

So, you've decided to go keyless. Smart decision!

But don't throw caution to the wind.

Here are some best practices for ensuring the safety of your keyless entry system:

Opt for Reputable Brands: Access control manufacturers like ICT, Avigilon, and DMP have a track record of robust and reliable access systems—and, just as importantly, valuable reputations for excellence that they must maintain.

Professional Installation: Always opt for system design and installation by access control experts.

Update Passwords: Don't stick with factory password settings. When attempting unauthorized access, any half-competent criminal will try the factory-set passwords first.

Two-Factor Authentication: Two-factor, or multifactor authentication, enhances security and frustrates bad actors by requiring more than one credential for authentication.

Regular Software Updates: Stay ahead of bad actors by keeping the system's software up-to-date.

Safe Keyless Entry Systems and Mammoth Security

So there you have it, folks! The world is moving toward a keyless future, and it's not a bad thing.

Just remember, with great power comes responsibility. Make informed choices and work with trustworthy manufacturers and installers, and you'll be just fine.

Our team at Mammoth Security not only has the expertise to install access control systems for a wide range of institutional and commercial applications, but we also work with the best brands in the industry and can help you select the right solutions for your site’s unique layout, workflows, and security requirements.

Click to contact us and fill out the form. We’d love to schedule your free consultation with a friendly and knowledgeable expert from our team.

Cheers to a safer, more convenient future!