How Does Cloud-Based Access Control Work?

A cloud-based access control system is managed in a central station. It doesn’t need an onsite server and gives total control to grant or deny access remotely. Additionally, the system allows the creation of different levels of access for users and stores information on the cloud to have better control on security protocols.

Reduce Security Costs

Reducing costs is one of the incentives to choose a cloud-based access control instead of going the traditional route. The term “cloud” refers to a remote server, which reduces the costs of equipment in the initial installation.

Other ways Cloud-Based Access Control reduces costs:

1. Automatic upgrades. Cloud-based systems are upgraded automatically. Compared to on-premise systems that can go six months to a year between upgrades through a manual process, Cloud-based systems are often upgraded. Because of this, automatic updates reduce the costs of maintenance overtime.

2. Cost-effective management. Users can manage their security system from a single centralized location, thereby reducing the need for additional resources. Additionally, this type of systems require lower upfront costs than traditional systems.

3. Effortlessly Scalable. Cloud-based access control is designed to meet the needs of properties of any size including those that have multiple locations. Furthermore, the advantage is that if you need to secure more properties in the future, you’ll be able to integrate and manage these from the same central station.

4. Protection from Loss. Cloud-based systems offer additional protection from loss since the system cannot be destroyed by severe weather, theft, or destruction.

Boost Security in Your Property

There’s no greater incentive to upgrade your system than exactly why you got the system in the first place: boosting security in your property. A cloud-based system can boost your security by making it easier to manage, integrate with other systems, and having (unlimited) data storage.

Additional ways Cloud-Based Access Control can boosts security in your property:

5. Intuitive Systems. The latest security systems are designed to be intuitive and easy to manage. It’s time-efficient for users to investigate events and alarms across multiple areas.

6. Layered security. Data stored in the cloud is considered very secure when using a reputable provider. The data is encrypted and stored in secure servers.

7. Receive Alerts. Users can receive alerts when someone is trying to gain unauthorized access.

8. Integration with security cameras. If you have security cameras and want to integrate with your access control, you can! Users will then be able to see live video feeds of cameras deployed on-site.

9. Reduce cybersecurity risks. Transfer cybersecurity threats to the cloud provider who will monitor the system and reduce risks of hacking.

Switching to a cloud based system is a cost-effective solution for multi-unit properties and businesses of all sizes. Do you have additional questions about cloud based systems? Contact our security team at (773)388-1208 or email us at info@vintechnology.com.

The post 9 Ways Cloud-Based Access Control Reduce Costs and Boosts your Security appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Earlier this month, ABC news reported the case of Danielle Cruz, a Chicago homeowner who was remodeling her vacant home when a stranger moved into the property. When she realized this was happening, she called the police.  However, when police arrived, they couldn’t do anything after the “trespasser” showed them a signed lease.

Why couldn’t the police remove the woman from Danielle’s home?

Although trespassing is a crime in Illinois, police officers have no way of knowing whether the person in question is a trespasser or a tenant. Even when it’s up to their discretion to remove the person, they often refuse. This is because they don’t want to be liable if the homeowner is simply trying to skip the eviction process.

In these cases, Police will likely handle this as a civil matter rather than criminal if no other crimes are taking place. Nonetheless, it’s still important to report the incident to the police. Officers are considered sworn witnesses and their statements are documented in official reports.

What is a Squatter?

“A squatter is someone who trespasses on a piece of property they do not own and begins living there without permission. They do not have any legal claim to the property and are not tenants, but after a period of time they may gain squatter’s rights.”

Nonetheless, the process to remove a squatter is usually lengthy.  As mentioned above, the property owner must file an action in court for civil trespassing and wait for a court date where a judge will decide on the case. This is why it’s far easier to prevent your vacant property from being occupied by trespassers in the first place than to remove a squatter.

When a trespasser becomes a Squatter

In the case of Danielle Cruz, by the time she realized that there was someone living in her home, the squatter had already changed the locks. This means that at least several days had passed since the intruder had settled in Danielle’s home. Furthermore, “this unaccounted time” makes it more difficult for police to treat this incident as trespassing.

In retrospect, the only “right timing” to prevent a squatter from settling into your home, it’s to be alerted as the incident is occurring.

Can an alarm system prevent trespassers from settling into your vacant property?

Burglar Alarm 

Burglar alarms are monitored by a local station 24/7. Whether you are at home or away, the system will alert you and the local monitoring station when someone or something ‘is in the zone’ and has activated the motion sensors. The monitoring station will then call you to verify a false alarm or to dispatch the authorities immediately if needed.

This system is best for…homes.

Benefits:

• Protect your investment from Squatters or intruders.
• Manage and monitor your alarm from your phone remotely from an app. Additional smart home devices can also be managed this way.
• Discounts on home insurance.

Video Verification Alarm

A Virtual Guard Verification Alarm uses high-tech cameras with live video monitoring to provide continuous feedback. Properties are monitored 24/7 and when the system’s camera detects motion, a signal is sent to a live operator. The operator will ask the person to leave through an onsite speaker. A local police officer or a security guard will be immediately dispatched if the intruder doesn’t leave.

This system is best for… construction sites, commercial buildings, auto dealerships, warehouses, schools, and any places with open/wide areas.

Benefits:

• No power? No phone line? No internet? A Video Verification Alarm provides security even with the ‘three no’s and under extreme weather conditions.
• Your property is protected soon after your account is activated. This process takes less than 24 hours and there isn’t training involved to operate the system.
• In addition to the camera, Virtual Guard’s sensor can also be triggered and an automated voice message will ask the trespasser to leave the area.

Removing a squatter from your property can be a lengthy process that can cost thousands of dollars for a property owner. The best plan is to get alerted as soon as a trespasser enters the property. An alarm system and support from a local monitoring company can work together to protect your investments.  Catching an intruder in time will prevent them from settling into your home.

The post How to Protect your Property from Squatters appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Are QR Codes safe to use?

Quick Response (QR) codes are relatively easy to use and have become a commodity during the pandemic. Many more people are willing to use these codes (or forced in some cases) because of the “avoid touching” culture that continues to be embedded in our minds. The thing is that many of the new ways of doing things from the past two years will probably stick around for good. Are cybercriminals taking notice? Of course, their job is to master our behavior to then use it against us.

If we’re using QR codes, then why not modify these and embed malicious sites to steal personal information or money? This is exactly what happened in the state of Texas.

Multiple cities in Texas recently reported spotting fake QR codes in parking meters. The issue was so widespread that even the FBI had to get involved in the case. People were approaching parking meters, scanning QR codes that were placed on the equipment, and then the code would lead them to a malicious website. Users were then prompted to enter their credit card information and make payment.

Did they think twice about moving forward with this process? Probably not.

It was not until later when people checked their purchases or got an alert that they realized it was all a scam. The truth is that many of us trust that official city equipment like parking meters are reliable. And since the whole transaction probably took less than a minute, there wasn’t much time to alert buyers that something could be wrong.

The good thing is that we can learn from what has already happened and prevent it from happening to us. How do we do that?

First, we learn how QR codes work, who is using them, and what makes them vulnerable.

How do QR Codes work?

QR codes work similar to barcodes. They’re a machine-scannable image that can instantly be read using a smartphone camera. You simply have to open you phone’s camera and hold it close enough for the QR code to be detected. Once your Smartphone starts reading the code, it translates that information into data that can be understood by humans.

Who is using QR codes?

QR codes are a versatile tool and therefore used in most industries. Their capacity to store large amounts of data is definitely an attractive feature. Many businesses are using QR codes for restaurant menus, packaging, and links to websites. Many companies, especially those that are environmentally-friendly, also promote the use of codes as these reduce the demand for printing.

What makes codes vulnerable?

QR codes, like other links, can contain malware or open the door to a phishing attack. Hackers can either insert malicious links on QR codes or email attachments. And although most companies have anti-viruses software for company emails, a QR code might go unnoticed. This is why it’s important to avoid opening codes from emails, especially, if you can’t confirm that they come from a trustworthy source.

Can you spot a fake QR code?

Most likely you will not be able to distinguish a fake code. The most important thing to remember is that if you’re unsure of its legitimacy, it’s best not to scan it. Additionally, you can use this rule when using QR codes: only use codes to obtain information not to give away yours.

Consider paying with cash or make payments only on official websites and apps. If a QR code asks you for any personal information, it should be a red flag and the clue to exit right away.

What to read next – 5 Ways to Protect your Remote Access App

The post Should you scan that QR code? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Because of this incident and many others, we want to discuss the importance of reducing false smoke alarms. It’s necessary to spread awareness about smoke inhalation related deaths as this is the number one cause of death related to fires.

How can you identify what is triggering your alarm?

A smoke detector needs regular health inspections to work properly. Most people know that overcooked food, low batteries, or a loose wire can cause a smoke detector to go off. Fortunately, these false alarms can often be prevented with good ventilation, changing the batteries every 5-10 years, and checking the system annually for faulty wires. Nonetheless, there are several other external reasons that can trigger a false smoke alarm. These are six of the less common triggers to look for:

1. Proximity to cold air returns

Smoke detectors are sensitive devices and temperature changes can trigger them. It’s not the first thing you should check but it might be helpful in explaining why an alarm is triggered. If your device is placed close to a door or window, cold air or dust particles from outside can trigger the sensor. This is specially true about false smoke alarms during the night.

Kidde Fire Safety explains in detail why this happens in their article: “Why do smoke alarms go off in the middle of the night?” Their post describes how a battery can develop internal resistance and trigger an alarm when the temperature around the alarm decreases.

2. Proximity to high humidity

Has your smoke detector gone off while you are in the shower? It sounds like the alarm might be too close to your bathroom. The bathroom’s humidity and steam from hot running water, might be causing this false alarm. You can try relocating the device further away from the bathroom and test if that helps reduce/eliminate this trigger.

3. Insects are crawling into your the cavities of the alarm

This is an interesting trigger because it’s unexpected. Many of us love insects only from a distance and find it difficult to believe that our homes have more than a couple of small spiders. Well, this is perfect because small insects can fit into the small cavities of the smoke detector and trigger the sensors. Luckily, this issue becomes a problem more often during the fall and it can be resolved by opening the smoke detector, checking inside, and cleaning the device.

You can read more about how to reduce this trigger in our blog: “Can spiders set your alarm off?”

4. Build up of dust or dirt

Internal and external accumulation of dust or dirt in a smoke alarm is normal. It’s easy to forget about these devices when they are not making a noise. However, dust can also trigger a false alarm. This is because smoke detectors react similarly to dust and smoke particles. The good news is that a semiannual cleaning of the device can be a solution to prevent this trigger.

Additionally, if your smoke detector is connected to your burglar alarm, this cleaning can also be done when your alarm company provides maintenance to your alarm. If you check both devices on the same dates, it’ll be easier to remember when the last inspection/testing was performed and if the batteries of your smoke detector need to be replaced.

5. Strong chemical odors are being detected by your alarm

Chemicals in cleaning products, ammonia, or paint fumes can also become triggers. Most of the time, this false alarm resumes after ventilating the area. If the problem persists, it might be helpful to reset the smoke detector.

6. Furnace/fireplace is turned on for the first time.

When turning on the fireplace or furnace for the first time during the season, dusty elements can create smoke. It might be difficult to prevent this false alarm but should be easy to eliminate by waiting for the smoke to dissipate and reseating the alarm.

When was the last time you tested your smoke detector?

It is important to test the device every six months to make sure they are working properly

In most cases, the fact that your smoke detector makes noise it’s a sign that your device is in good condition and responding to external aggressors. Unfortunately, like any other device in the house, a smoke detector can have minor glitches. The good news is that most can be prevented or resolved within minutes.

If you have already checked all these triggers and the problem persists, you should also consider upgrading your alarm. As the detector gets older, it becomes less efficient and you don’t want to risk having a system that doesn’t work well.

It’s understandable to get irritated when you can’t pinpoint the reason for the false alarm right away, but don’t give up! Remember that no one should ever live in a home without a working smoke detector or delay testing it regularly

The post 6 Less Common Reasons your Smoke Detector is Set off appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Are You Cyber Secure for 2021?

By Emily Miller

What are other ways to restrict network access?

What is 2FA?

Simple Steps with Big Results

The best thing you can do this year to secure you and your property, is taking small steps to ensure that your network and therefore all your devices are protected from hackers. With complex passwords, updated software, encrypted messages, and a multi-stream security approach, you can rest assured that your internet- and therefore your property itself- is secure for the year to come.

About the author

Emily has had a love for travel since she was a little girl. She has visited places all over the US and even to a few other countries. Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 and travel restrictions, she has been spending more time at home. Nonetheless, she now uses her experiences to write about travel, home safety, and cyber security.

The post Are You Cyber Secure for 2021? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in November 2016 and has been updated for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.

The housing market is booming.

The need to work remotely and spend more time at home has increased the demand for larger living spaces. Additionally, more Americans are buying or refinancing their homes because of the current low interest rates on mortgages.

This could also be the reason why the DIY industry is gaining momentum. The home security systems market alone ‘was valued at USD 53.6 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 78.9 billion by 2025.’

Instead of slowing down during the pandemic, it is reported that homeowners ‘have continued to spend money on home improvements’ while paying special attention to DIY alarm systems.

A DIY alarm system might seem like an attractive option. But, how can you decide if it’s a good alternative for your property?

It really depends on your security needs and how tech-savvy you are.

When you first visit a DIY company website, you might notice that they place most of their attention in the buying process. This is because they aren’t required to obtain a license for installations. In a sense, they are like many other companies that only sell you a product.

This doesn’t necessarily mean bad business. However, it does mean that the company you choose has to be transparent and have a solid foundation. Not all security companies abide by the same values and some advertising of DIY alarm systems can be misleading.

But before you jump into reading reviews and comparing products, the following tips can help you decide if a DIY system is a good fit for you and your home.

Where does a DIY Alarm System perform best?

A DIY alarm system works best for small spaces like apartments or flats. An apartment usually has less doors and windows to secure, therefore, you will likely also need less motion sensors.

A second reason is that most wireless systems have to be within a certain distance of their wireless network. This is not difficult in small spaces but becomes more complicated in a multi-level building.

The Pros of Purchasing a DIY Alarm System

Installation is economical.

A professional installation tends to cost more. This is because of the high quality of the system and the personalized service you’ll receive if you hire a full-service company. This is why one of the main appeals of a DIY alarm system is that if you install it yourself, you’ll save big bucks.

This choice will not only give you the advantage of getting your system sooner but you’ll be saving on initial costs. Nonetheless, it’s recommended to first research the DIY company of your preference to make sure it is well-established. This is important because a DIY system allows you to add other products in the future so you don’t have to buy it all at once.

For example, if you first want to buy an alarm system and a year later a video doorbell, you’ll be able to integrate both systems as long as you buy them from the same company.

It’s also important to ask about the equipment’s warranty and return policy. Since not all DIY alarm systems are good quality, a good return policy can protect you if the system doesn’t work well or it isn’t what you expected. Only because the system fits your budget, it doesn’t mean it will also fit your needs.

Take your DIY Alarm System Wherever you go

If you are tech-savvy, it will not be difficult to uninstall your DIY System. If you rent your apartment or move often, this might be a good option for you. The ability to take the system wherever you go will not only be convenient but installation costs will again not apply as you will re-install the system yourself.

You’ll be Free from Annual Contracts

Most professional security companies require that you sign a 1 or 2 year contract of alarm monitoring services. This means that as soon as your alarm is installed, it will be monitored by a central station. In case of an emergency, the monitoring station will call you to verify if they need to alert the authorities.

In contrast, with a DIY alarm, you’ll have the task of self-monitor your security system.  This means that your alarm system will not be monitored by a central station and when the alarm is activated, it’ll be up to you to alert the authorities. You’ll also be free from a monthly monitoring fee and responsible for any repairs the system will require in the future.

The Cons of Purchasing a DIY Alarm System  

DIY Installations Can Be frustrating

Some DIY companies don’t even include information about the installation process in their websites. They focus on describing the system’s features and having images of people using their systems.

Before you start adding items to your cart, it’s reasonable to want to know if a company has a support team. If questions about the installation arise, you’ll need someone to guide you through the process. You should also ask about the options you’ll have if and when the system malfunctions.

For example, Park’s Associates’ Senior analyst Dina Abdelrazik, told Security Systems News  that “From our data, on average, consumers spend 4 hours or more installing their DIY security system in the home – that is a very long time,”.

Are you willing to spend 4 hours or more installing your system? Have in mind that this time only accounts for installation. Additional hours of your time will be required to self-monitor and repair your system.

This is one of the main reasons why if you are not tech-savvy, its best to stay away from DIY alarm systems.

The post Pros and Cons of a DIY Alarm System appeared first on VinTech Systems.

1. Access your apps from a secure network

2. Identify if your app uses encryption

3. Update your App

4. Use two-factor authentication (2FA)

5. Check your phone for malware

The post 5 Ways to Protect your Remote Access App appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The beginning of fall season has its perks. There are new menus in our favorite cafes, leaves change color, evening walks in comfortable weather are possible, and we can enjoy a new show-binge on Netflix. The popular Halloween decorations include pumpkins, ghosts and spiders. What most people don’t realize is that these fake spiders and their webs are not the only ones “creeping around” their homes. The problem lies within, really. Female spiders tend to reside indoors and at this time of the year, male spiders intrude homes in search of a mate. These so called “sex-starved spiders” can be big enough to set your burglar alarm off. Needless to say, not only can this be very irritating but they can also set off false alarms. The following five points are useful measures to repel spiders from your home.

Turning off the lights.

This is not to set a romantic mood for the spiders! Insects such as flies and mosquitoes are naturally attracted to light. These outdoor lights can attract spiders seeking food and shelter. If you currently leave the lights on for security reasons, switching to motion sensor lights can be a viable option.

Do you smell citrus?

If you enjoy a fresh citrus scent, this is a great option for you.  Peppermint leaves or oil, and eucalyptus can work as repellents or you can try lemon, orange or grapefruit cleaning solutions.

Fill in the Gaps.

Just like most intruders, spiders commonly make their way into your house through windows and doors. It is essential to seal any gaps under doors and windows. Paying special attention to bathroom windows can pay off. Spiders love moist places, which is why we commonly find them in the bathroom.

Clearing spider webs

In most cases, spider webs reside in blind spots. Unless there is bright light in the house, it is difficult to spot them. These are some of the places you can start with: the ceiling, walls (especially at corners), behind boxes, under the kitchen or bathroom sink, inside the closet, behind the couch, etc. One important thing to remember is to wear gloves before moving any item that has been static for some time. Although most spiders are harmless and aid to control infestations, you probably don’t want to touch them.

Consider Cedar-wood furniture.

For unknown reasons, spiders detest cedar wood furniture. Although most people would jump at the opportunity to change their furniture, it is not always possible. Nonetheless, this is something to take into consideration next time you are looking for a sofa.

It is important to remember that if a false alarm occurs, your security company needs your most updated account information. By updating contact names and numbers, you will be able to verify if it is a false alarm or a real emergency.  If the account is not up to date or if the contacts listed do not respond, the police could be dispatched, possibly resulting in a fee charge.

The post Can spiders set your alarm off? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Remotely Access your Camera Feed.

With remote access, users can view their camera feed anytime. Additionally, they can playback recorded files to view footage. What happens when you go on vacation and don’t have anyone to check on your house? or if you want to check on your pets during the day while you are at work? Have peace of mind by accessing your cameras remotely.

Control your Alarm.

When you have alarm monitoring, if the alarm goes off, the local monitoring station will contact you to make sure everything is OK and dispatch the police if necessary. But what happens when you leave your house and later realize you forgot to arm your alarm? With remote access, you can simply arm your alarm using the App. If you go out of town for a few days, you can make sure your garage door is closed, adjust your thermostat or control your lights. Turning your lights on while you are away can create the illusion that the home is occupied and protect your home from a burglary.

Set up e-mail or text notifications to alert you of a fire or intrusion.

Sometimes burglars find a way to break into a home without setting off the alarm or simply enter the home regardless of the alert. The next five minutes are crucial. Not only will police be notified instantly but you will receive an alert and be able to playback and share video footage of the crime with them.

If you feel that you could benefit from any of these features, contact your security company for more information. They can train you to use the remote viewing App effectively.

The post 3 Top Perks of Home Security with Remote Access appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Having a successful year includes investing in security for your business. While some owners focus on the best liability policy, the key also lies in choosing the best security system. If you are reading this blog you may already be considering new security for your business. Of course, all businesses are unique and VinTech believes there isn’t a one-size fits all solution. Fortunately, there are various choices in the marketplace to fit every unique needs. Let’s discuss 5 reasons to invest in a security system this year.

Deter Crime Before It Happens.

Security solutions don’t stop crime but they decrease it. For example, camera systems not only record criminal activity but help reduce the risk of a break in. Most criminals turn away from businesses with cameras as it increases the likelihood they’ll get caught. What about a video verification alarm? This service is ideal for larger businesses like construction sites, car dealers, or warehouses. The video alarm signals are verified by a trained operator. They cancel false alarms and when an intruder is spotted, they dispatch law enforcement immediately.

Save Money on Insurance.

Your insurance can decrease up to 20% when you have a security system. It’s a win-win situation. Your businesses saves on insurance and gets a tax write-off at the end of the year. Additionally, you get peace of mind for free!

Protect your Business Against Lawsuits.

A security system protects you from lawsuits. Consider the scenario of one of our clients who owns a towing company. A man picked up his car from the towing company lot and falsely accused our client of assault, not realizing he was being recorded by camera surveillance. VinTech systems retrieved the evidence and provided it to The Chicago Police.

Easier to Alert Authorities of an Intrusion.

Intrusion alarms and camera systems are the most popular. Why?  They can be monitored remotely. You no longer need to be on site and the police can be dispatched immediately. A significantly faster police response increases arrests of burglars or vandals.

Keep Vandals out.

Keep in mind that unrestricted property is a magnet for vandalism. Nonetheless, an alarm system and good lighting can help deter criminals. Your business will be protected even when you are away.

The post 5 Reasons to Invest in Security for your Business appeared first on VinTech Systems.