In today’s modern world, security is still a big concern. In fact, it’s bigger than ever before, as the internet has opened up a whole new world of security threats. Thankfully technology has evolved to meet the challenge, and there are dozens of new ways to protect your office, your home and your belongings. One of those solutions is biometric (or fingerprint) locks, which offer a convenient and secure alternative to traditional locks.
But are biometric locks really all that secure? Sadly, there isn’t a yes or no answer for that -you need to weigh up the pros and cons for yourself – with a little help from us!
How Do Fingerprint Locks Work?
Fingerprint door locks use special technology to grant access to a space or unlock a door. They are equipped with a small scanner pad, which reads the unique pattern of your fingerprint when you press it against the pad. Computers then compare those patterns to a stored template, and if they match, the lock will open. It sounds very futuristic, but it really is as simple as that!
The Pros And Cons Of Fingerprint Looks
Like any lock, or any technology, there are pros and cons to biometric locks.
Advantages of Biometric Locks
One of the biggest advantages they have over traditional lacks is your convenient they are. Once it’s set up, you don’t need to carry around keys or access cards, or even remember a passcode. The key is, quite literally, at your fingertips. It’s also helpful if you need to allow multiple people access to your home, since you can program biometric locks to recognize multiple fingerprints.
Disadvantages of Biometric Locks
Of course, without the physical assurance of a key and lock, there are some concerns and risks associated with biometric locks. The biggest concern is the possibility that the scanner or computer hardware is hacked, allowing unauthorised access. After all, fingerprint readers are just like any other type of technology, and just as susceptible to hacking attempts. If a hacker is able to access the lock’s biometric data, they could easily create fake fingerprints to use for access, or even duplicate existing fingerprints to use for their own devices.
Keeping Fingerprint Locks Safe
While there are some risks to using a biometric or fingerprint lock, the good news is there are also ways you can protect them, keeping your locks as secure as possible.
Do Your Research: Before you go and buy your new lock, take some time to research the companies. You want to choose a brand with a reputation for security and a track record of excellent customer service. If you’re not sure, you can always ask your security professional or locksmith.
Add An Extra Layer of Security: Don’t let your fingerprint lock do all of the work by itself. You could pair it with other security measures to make sure your home is extra safe. Cameras or alarm systems can provide an extra layer of security and deter people from trying to break in.
Keep Your Software Up To Date: Just like your computer, your fingerprint locks will need software updates to keep them working properly. Make sure you’re installing any security patches or updates as soon as you can so there are no gaps in your security.
Be Careful With Your Data: Your fingerprints are a form of biometric data, and are completely unique to you. You should treat it as the sensitive data it is. Don’t share it with other people, and make sure it’s stored in a secure location. And if you’re using biometric data in your business, remember that if that data is accessed, leaked or stolen, it constitutes a breach of GDPR.
As locksmiths, people often expect us to be anti-fingerprint locks but that’s not the case! In fact, we think they can make a fantastic addition to any home or business security system, if used and installed correctly. We’re also happy to advise on fingerprint locks for domestic and commercial purposes, and even install them. To find out more, just get in touch with the team today.