Traditional alarm companies have huge advantages over DIY systems and national communications companies. We have been documenting how national companies and DIY systems have had security issues. Unauthorized people have “hacked” into systems and spoken to young children. “Security companies” allowing their employees to access audio and video files for training purposes. It seems that many of these systems that claim to keep the bad guy out, are instead a source of the break in safety and letting them in.
One of the advantages is that the equipment isn’t dependent on the service provider. DMP equipment, the burglar / fire / and access control panel manufacturer that we use, will continue to work if Guard Tronic were to go out of business…..after 60 years.
Not all companies can say the same…
Spectrum Leaves Home Security Subscribers In The Cold – CloudWedge –> https://t.co/nIGVax43ej pic.twitter.com/lTUOVpuvYq
— DivisiveForceCa (@ca_force) January 13, 2020
Gizmodo published a story over the weekend stating that Spectrum is shuddering their home security business, stating:
“On February 5, Spectrum will no longer support customers who’ve purchased its Spectrum Home Security equipment. None of the devices—the cameras, motion sensors, smart thermostats, and in-home touchscreens—can be paired with other existing services. In a few weeks, it’ll all be worthless junk.”
The full article is linked here.
Spectrum certainly isn’t the first to leave the market…and their customers high and dry.
On March 31, 2019, Iris by Lowe’s left the smart home / security market.
Much like Spectrum, many of their customers were left without services they had already paid for.
@Lowes Highly disappointed that you discontinued support for Iris smart plugs. None of my lamps work today. Support says redemption period ended March 31. Never got email. Surprised by lack of customer service.
— Kelly Rubel (@krubel) April 2, 2019
@Lowes I spent $169 on IRIS by Lowe's Security items on 1-22-19. Cancer delayed my install 'til y'day. Now I learn Lowes no longer supports the platform as of 3-31-19. I have receipt but they won't take back. Why sell items you know will be worthless 2 months later? I was scammed
— Chris Maar (@ChrisMaar1) September 12, 2019
While it isn’t unusual for traditional alarm companies to change ownership, it is highly unusual for a company to stop services and offer no alternate solutions to keep their existing systems in operative order. Guard Tronic purchased three companies in 2019.  In each instance, the customer was able to keep their existing system and experience no interruption in service caused by the ownership change.
Security from a security system.
Better service from a local provider.
Non-proprietary equipment that is made in the USA.
60 years of proven property protection.
Contact Guard Tronic
(800) 542-7866
info@guardtronic.com