Are Smart Locks Safe? A Locksmith’s Honest Breakdown for 2025

Smart Locks Are Everywhere in 2025 — But Are They Safe?

Smart locks have exploded in popularity, especially across Tampa neighborhoods like South Tampa, Seminole Heights, and Channelside. But beneath the sleek design and phone app control lies a deeper question:

Are smart locks really safer—or are they a digital trap?

As trusted mobile locksmiths in Tampa, we’ve worked with hundreds of smart lock installs, repairs, and — yes — break-ins. Here’s what every homeowner should know.

The Pros: Why Tampa Loves Smart Locks

1. Keyless Entry Convenience
   No more fumbling for keys. Enter with a PIN, fingerprint, or phone app.

2. Guest Access
   Grant temporary codes to dog walkers, Airbnb guests, or family.

3. Remote Monitoring
   Get alerts if someone opens the door—or tries to.

4. Integration with Smart Homes
   Works with Alexa, Ring, Google Home, and more.

The Cons: What Smart Lock Companies Won’t Tell You

1. Hackability Is Real

Many 2023–2024 models were vulnerable to signal jammers, Bluetooth spoofing, or brute force code cycling.

In 2024, security researchers cracked 6 out of 10 major smart locks in under 15 minutes.

2. Batteries Die

And when they do, you’re locked out. We’ve done dozens of emergency calls for “dead smart locks.”

3. Wi-Fi Dependency

If the power goes out or Wi-Fi glitches, so does your lock—unless you’ve got a backup key (which defeats the purpose).

4. Installation Mistakes = Vulnerabilities

Many DIY installs don’t align the deadbolt fully. That tiny gap? A skilled thief can exploit it.

So... Are Smart Locks Safe in 2025?

Yes — But Only the Right Ones.

Here’s our 2025 verdict, based on real Tampa cases and professional testing:

Brand/Model Safety Score Worth It?

August Wi-Fi Lock 9.5/10 ✅ Yes

Schlage Encode Plus 9/10 ✅ Yes

Eufy Security Smart Lock C210 7.5/10 ⚠️ Only if installed by pro

Wyze Lock 6/10 ❌ Too easy to jam

Gate Smart Lock 5/10 ❌ Major past vulnerabilities

Real Case: Tampa Family Locked Out at 1 AM

We recently helped a family in Hyde Park who couldn’t enter their home because their smart lock battery died while they were out of town. No physical key. No way in.

After 25 minutes of delicate maneuvering and bypassing failsafes, we got them in — without damage. But it could’ve been avoided with one backup key hidden in a lockbox.

Locksmith Tips: How to Stay Safe with Smart Locks

• Choose a reputable brand with AES encryption and two-factor authentication

• Hire a licensed locksmith for installation — not your cousin with a drill

• Always keep one physical key hidden securely

• Check your battery monthly and set app alerts

• Don’t share codes casually — use temp PINs that expire

Still Debating? Ask Us First.

Smart locks can be safe—but only with the right setup. Before you buy, call us. We’ll recommend what works best for your doors, budget, and lifestyle.

Locked out? Thinking of upgrading? Need a second opinion?
Call Pro On The Go Locksmith at (813) 534-2911 or Book in 30 Seconds

Related Posts

• The 5 Best Smart Locks for Tampa Homes (2025 Guide)

• How to Prevent Lockouts with Smart Devices

• Locked Out in Tampa? What to Do Right Now

FAQ

Q: Can smart locks be hacked in 2025?
A: Yes, especially cheaper models without encryption or with weak Bluetooth protocols.

Q: What’s safer: smart lock or traditional deadbolt?
A: A high-quality deadbolt with proper installation often beats a poorly secured smart lock.

Q: Are smart locks worth it for rentals or Airbnb?
A: Absolutely. Just make sure you reset codes between guests and monitor usage through the app.

Serving All of Tampa

From Davis Islands to Carrollwood, we’re Tampa’s #1 mobile locksmith for smart lock installs, upgrades, and emergencies.

Call Now: (813) 534-2911
proonthegolocksmith.com