Can Burglars Jam Your Wireless Security Alarms?
Wireless home security systems are a popular choice for homeowners. But as technology improves, so do the techniques used by burglars to gain access to your home.
What's A Wifi Jammer?
Jammers are signal blocking devices that transmit synchronized radio waves at the same frequency as a device like a cell phone or to blur the signal. Since most wireless alarm systems use radio frequency signals, a burglar can interrupt the radio signal using a jamming device. While jammers are typically used to protect an individual or company against hacking, they can also be used to to disarm a wireless security system.
Types of Jammers
Mobile: Mobile jammers transmit signals on the same frequency as cell-phones, which blocks cellular service and prevents the mobile device from making calls or sending text messages. If a mobile jammer is operating, your cell phone won't display a network signal.
WiFi: WiFi jammers will create noise to block a WiFi connection and prevent people with a wifi-enabled device from connecting to a 3G, 4G, GPRS, or cordless WiFi network.
GPS: A GPS jammer is used to block satellites or spy devices in the 1500-1600 MHz range. It's often used to deflect surveillance or spying.
Signal jammers are illegal unless you are an operator with the right to own a licensed jammer. This is due to the risk they pose to the public by disrupting essential communications. Despite federal law, however, it's possible for criminals to obtain these devices illegally and use for their own purposes. That's why it's important to be aware of how these transmitters can affect your security and what you can do to safeguard yourself.
How Can Jammers Be Used To Disable or Block Your Wireless Home Security System?
Can residential wireless alarms be jammed? Wireless home security systems transmit RF signals between sensors placed around the perimeter of your home to send an alert to an alarm company when suspicious activity occurs. If a potential burglar can determine the type of security system you own and the frequency in which the wireless signal is operating, then it's possible for them to use a jammer to disable or block it.
This is also true for professional monitoring systems. Live video surveillance operated through WiFi connectivity; when a jammer creates white noise to block the connection, they will be unable to see or monitor who is entering your home.
How Likely Are Burglars To Use A Wifi Jammer?
While jammers are suspected in recent break in just outside of Philadelphia, the likelihood that a criminal gains access to your home using a jammer is highly unlikely. Burglaries are rarely premeditated or carefully orchestrated. Rather, they're typically random and opportunistic crimes.
Several home security systems are also equipped with anti-jamming features, built into security panels. The panel detects when signal noise goes above the threshold – indicating possible jamming – which triggers an alarm to alert the homeowner or notifies the monitoring company. For home wireless security systems that are also set up to report over a data or telephone line, a signal can be sent to the monitoring station as soon as a cellular jamming signal is detected. Simplisafe has an algorithm capable of separating RF interference from targeted jamming attacks.
Should Homeowners With Wifi Systems Be Concerned?
Installing an active security system in your home is the best way to reduce the risk of a burglary. While every system has its vulnerabilities, always compare features when shopping and consider the types of valuables you are storing at your residence. As an added layer of security, keep your doors and windows locked when you're not at home, and use motion sensor lights to deter trespassers.
Wired vs. Wireless Home Security Systems
The Best Wireless Security Cameras Of 2020
What Are the Benefits of a Wireless Home...
How To Keep Your Outdoor Security Camera Covers... 3 min
Home Security Buying Guide 8 min
What Are the Risks of Using Wi-Fi in... 4 min
The Best Home Security Cameras of 2020 6 min