Technology can be scary. A recent survey of Americans even found that respondents are more afraid of robots than of death. It may sound far-fetched and silly. Even Elon Musk is a little scared, and he’s a smart guy. Yet he fears that artificial intelligence will take over the world. Elon is no different than most of us. We’re all afraid of things we can’t control. It’s technology.

And what about smart locks? To be clear, the electric lock isn’t going to take over the world by locking politicians out of parliament or people out of their homes. Even if you wanted it to.

As for the other myths about smart locks, most of them seem plausible at first glance. In fact, they were widely believed until we published this list of 7 common myths about smart locks and their untruths.

1. If I lose my smartphone, my smart lock won’t work.

This is a widespread myth. If you lose your phone, you can still use a smart lock. Almost all smart locks offer multiple access options. For example, our models allow access via fingerprint, PIN code and RFID card. And if necessary, there is even a mechanical key override. So you won’t be locked out if you lose your phone. Are you forgetful and lose things? Then a smart lock is perfect for you. You don’t have to worry about your keys. And if you can’t find your phone, you can simply log in to your E-LOK account and use your smart lock again.

2. Smart locks are less durable than conventional locks

Any lock is only as durable as its parts. Whether it’s a conventional lock or a smart lock, if it’s made from garbage, its durability is worthless.

E-LOKs are not made from garbage. They are specifically designed for the New Zealand climate and made from high-quality materials. They are IP66 rated – good enough to withstand even rough seas. Not that we designed them for boat cabins, but it rains in Invercargill, and that’s why they’re like this.

3. Smart locks don’t work in power outages

Our E-LOKs are self-contained units and don’t require a power connection. They’re powered by long-lasting alkaline batteries that are easy to replace. The E-LOK app keeps you informed of battery status, and you always have a mechanical key to override the low battery warning.

4. If the internet goes down, my smart lock won’t work

We designed our locks for New Zealand and know that the internet can sometimes go down, especially in rural areas. Your fingerprint will still work, as will your RFID card, PIN and Bluetooth access. Only if you’re using your E-LOK gateway for remote access will you encounter any issues during an internet outage.

5. Smart Locks Are Hard to Use

The opposite is true. Smart locks are easier to use than key locks. Let’s be honest. How many times have you searched for the right key (and probably regretted not buying one of those color-coded key cases)? With a smart lock, there’s no fumbling: just place your fingers on the keypad and start typing. It’s that simple.

E-locks are even used in several senior housing projects. One reason for this is their ease of use.

6. Someone can guess my PIN

A four-digit code has 10,000 possible combinations. Cracking a four-digit PIN would take about 10 hours at 10 seconds per attempt. Of course, that doesn’t include bathroom breaks or a quick bite of steak and cheese pie. So we estimate it could take longer.

You can even choose a 9-digit PIN. There are 3 million possible combinations, and anyone trying to guess them would need a tent to sleep in. It would be obvious to the neighbors.

We know what you’re thinking: It’s easy to see which numbers are being pressed because they’re marked. This makes it easier. It would be even if the fingerprint pad wasn’t fingerprint-proof, which it is. So there wouldn’t be any markings.

7. Smart locks don’t fit slim aluminium locks like those in New Zealand.

That’s partly true. That wasn’t the case until the 7 Series was introduced.

The 7 Series was specifically designed for new and refurbished installations, including the aluminium frames typical of homes from the 1990s and 2000s. At just 38mm wide, it’s the slimmest smart lock in New Zealand because we believe that good security shouldn’t be intrusive or detract from the aesthetics of your home.

It’s normal to be skeptical of new technology, but the truth about smart locks is actually quite simple. They work just like traditional locks. They move a latch from door frame to door frame to lock the door. You just don’t need a key.

Think about it this way: Not so long ago, everyone used a key fob to get in and out of their car. Suddenly, there were buttons to push, and everything became easier. And that’s exactly what the best technology does: It makes everything easier.

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