Depending on what’s installed, part of your setup might be built into the rental property. In that case, you may have to leave your smart locks, lights and fridge behind. But if those devices aren’t properly reset, the new renters may have access to sensitive information stored within them.
Smart lights alone can log data about when you’re home and areas of the house you spend time in — not to mention things like your password and credit card information, to name a few. As you would clear your files from an old laptop before giving it away, you need to purge all the data in your home automation devices before handing over the keys to your house.
These four tips will help you ensure each device is properly reset so you save yourself — and the new renters — any headaches (and potential information security breaches).
1. Take inventory of your smart system
This not only includes the devices but the instruction manuals, vendor websites, customer support contacts and any other item pertinent to your setup. Taking inventory helps ensure all devices are accounted for and that you have all the necessary items to disconnect everything properly. The new owners will also need this information in order to set everything up to their liking.
2. Disconnect your system and wipe it clean
The moment you know your move-out date, start disabling administrative and user access so your information is protected. Complete a factory reset for all devices, too. This allows the new renters to “teach” the devices without old data getting in the way — because while you may have a preference for bright ambiance in the living room, the new renters may prefer a scheme of shadows and dimness. To each their own.
The process of disconnecting and re-setting your devices depends on the device itself. Some may have a “Factory Reset” option either on the device itself or in the settings menu. On others, you may need to hold and release the power button until the device indicates that it’s been reset. Check your owner’s manual or vendor website for specific instructions on resetting a particular device.
3. Call the manufacturer
Even if you reset your devices to factory settings and disable administrative access, you could still get notifications from your former smart home hub. Such was the case for Charles Henderson, Global Head of IBM X-Force Red. He traded in his connected convertible after doing a factory reset and disabling remote access — but discovered later that he could still lock and unlock the doors from his smartphone.
There have also been cases where the old owner tries adjusting the settings on a new thermostat but unwittingly adjusts the old one — much to the new owner’s chagrin. To be sure you’ve revoked access to your old smart hub, call the manufacturer. That way, there’ll be no confusion if you decide to sync up to a new device at your new home.
4. Check that your new system has been reset
Does your new place already have a home automation system? As you did with your old configuration, make sure the previous tenants disabled access and contact the manufacturer. It may be impossible to tell on your end whether the previous owners still have access to the account. If issues arise during the move, it’s best to reach out to a professional, just like you would a plumber or electrician.
It’s important to note, too, that many smart home devices (smart as they are) have security frailties. Home automation devices are relatively new, and embedded security features aren’t always up to snuff. As with computers, hackers have been able to infiltrate home automation devices while the user’s none the wiser.
That said, be sure you have a strong password. Consider using a generator to come up with more varied sequences (“1234” and “password” are obviously out of the question). Additionally, select the most secure type of encryption used by your Wi-Fi router, such as Advanced Encryption Standard. This can help curb hackers from decoding intercepted signals.
The convenience afforded by home automation devices come with certain risks, but doing a little homework (as you are now) can give you much-needed peace of mind.
Arun Ganesan serves as Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Esurance, where he’s responsible for data management, cyber security, business intelligence, infrastructure and operations. He writes on a variety of topics, including smart home technology, home insurance and the intersection of the two. Learn more about Esurance’s home and auto insurance policies here.
