Keep Your Smart Home Safe With These Tips

June 19th, 2024



You don't have to be technologically knowledgeable or savvy to take advantage of smart home systems in Chico, CA. Mobile setups and other resources are being integrated into these systems, and you have a helping hand throughout each step of the installation process and even beyond.

One of the biggest fears people tend to have that make them hesitant about smart homes is the risk of falling victim to some kind of cyber attack. However, if you keep the following considerations in mind, you can effectively protect your network and keep your smart home safe and sound.

Don't Recycle Passwords and Change Things Up

First of all, never recycle your passwords. Chances are someone somewhere knows one of those passwords and that can potentially cause a vulnerability. It is also important to regularly change your passwords and pins for all of your connected devices and doing so can help keep any hackers or other cybercriminals away.

One of the most overlooked passwords is the Wi-Fi password. People don't think that it needs to be switched up and we tend to forget. However, this is one of the most commonly accessed entry points. Make sure you come up with complicated and complex passwords that are hard to figure out. Don’t follow any patterns or use common information about yourself. If you need to, password managing software is available and can help you come up with more secure password options.

Only Use Certified Products

If you have a device in your smart home that hasn't received any kind of certification or testing, then you should stop using it. You should only use products you are sure are certified. X-Wave, for example, is a wireless mesh networking protocol that offers low-power connectivity and devices from hundreds of brands that have all been tested and certified.

Consider Additional Security Options

In addition to certified devices and regularly changing passwords, you should also consider installing devices that offer additional built-in security features. Built-in security that uses the industry standard AES-128 encryption for wireless protocols is ideal. You are providing another layer of protection to an already protected device. It brings your smart home to a new level of protection and can combat many different hacker techniques.

Security Updates

It is also a good idea to make sure that all your security updates have been completed and you have the most up to date firmware that is available. Firmware has critical security improvements you need as well as new features that will help you keep your smart home more secure. You can also set regular alerts to check for new system updates, so you will never forget.

Install Current Malware Protection

Finally, all of your home devices should have malware protection from a reputable company. You can find several free malware options, but there are some that charge a fee, but you will find that the fee is worth the price for the level of protection it offers.

Like with system updates, you also want to be sure that you always have the most updated and current form of malware protection. Following these easy steps is a great way to protect your smart home and ensure it is more secure.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
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