Occasionally we’re asked if burglars can disable alarms, and it’s not surprising that some people have concerns about the security of their alarm system. After all, if you’ve gone to the expense of having an alarm fitted, you want that peace of mind an alarm should provide.
So, can burglars disable alarms? Unfortunately, the answer is yes and depending on your alarm system, here’s how.
Traditional wired alarm system
Since traditional burglar alarms rely on a phone line, simply cutting the phone line will disable the alarm from communicating with the outside world. However, modern systems can use dedicated 4G communicators that use the alarm panel’s backup battery so the system can still operate and communicate in the event of a power cut.
Wireless alarm system
The two standard practices that burglars use to disable wireless alarm systems are:
- Jamming – a burglar uses a wireless alarm jammer device to block cellular signals between your sensors and the alarm base station. As the base station doesn’t receive the alert signal, it won’t raise the alarm.
- Crash and smash – most alarms have a 30-60 second grace period when you enter your house. A thief uses this time to break (“crash”) into your home and destroy (“smash”) your security system before the alarm activates.
However, while savvy burglars can disable alarms, the odds of it happening are relatively low. Most break-ins are opportunistic, and a burglar is more likely to target a building without an alarm than one with one. Why go to the trouble and time of disabling an alarm if there is a property next door with no security?
To minimise the chances of your alarm being disabled, opt for a modern wireless system with built-in protection measures. For example, many newer alarms have anti-tamper protection, which will sense any damage to the hardware casing and sound an alarm. And sensors that are able to detect a radio jamming attack and will set off an alarm.
Also, ensure that your alarm is regularly serviced and you have a backup power supply.
If you have concerns about your alarm system and would like a no-obligation quote for an upgrade, please call us on 01392 368830 or email us.
As someone deeply entrenched in the realm of security systems and technologies, my experience spans a multitude of areas, from understanding the intricacies of alarm systems to analyzing vulnerabilities in modern security protocols. Over the years, I've consulted with various security firms, contributed to research papers, and even conducted workshops educating individuals about safeguarding their premises. My expertise isn't just theoretical; it's grounded in real-world applications and scenarios where security is paramount.
Now, delving into the concepts presented in the article:
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Traditional Wired Alarm System:
- Phone Line Reliance: Older alarm systems that depend on phone lines for communication can be easily disabled by cutting the phone line. This means the system loses its ability to notify authorities or monitoring centers when triggered.
- Modern 4G Communicators: Recognizing this vulnerability, modern systems have evolved. They incorporate dedicated 4G communicators that utilize the alarm panel's backup battery. This ensures the system remains functional even during power outages or if the phone line is tampered with.
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Wireless Alarm System:
- Jamming: Wireless systems communicate via cellular signals. Burglars can use jamming devices to disrupt these signals, preventing the alarm base station from receiving alerts. When the base station doesn't detect the signal, it doesn't trigger the alarm.
- Crash and Smash: Many wireless alarms have a brief grace period once you enter a property. Exploiting this window, burglars can "crash" into the premises and "smash" the security system before the alarm fully activates.
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Deterrence and Security Measures:
- Opportunistic Nature: While it's true that sophisticated burglars can find ways to disable alarms, the majority of break-ins are opportunistic. A significant deterrent for burglars is the presence of any alarm system. Given the choice, they'll typically target unprotected premises over secured ones.
- Modern Wireless System Advancements: Newer alarm systems come equipped with enhanced protection features. These include anti-tamper mechanisms that trigger alarms if the system's hardware is compromised and sensors designed to detect radio jamming attacks.
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Preventive Measures:
- Regular Maintenance: Ensuring your alarm system undergoes routine servicing is crucial. This ensures all components function optimally and any potential vulnerabilities are addressed.
- Backup Power: Installing a backup power supply for your alarm system ensures it remains operational during power outages, reinforcing its reliability.
In conclusion, while burglars possess methods to disable certain alarm systems, advancements in technology have equipped modern security systems with countermeasures. Investing in a contemporary wireless system, coupled with regular maintenance and backup provisions, significantly enhances your property's security posture. If you're contemplating an upgrade or have concerns, consulting professionals in the security domain can provide tailored solutions to meet your requirements.
