Burglars are keen on compromising garage security to gain access to homes. You might not think of someone stealing a garage door remote. But it does happen. When someone has access to your remote control, they can open the garage at any time. This leaves your home vulnerable to break-ins, which is never a happy thought, especially during the current coronavirus outbreak.
Stealing garage door opener remotes is an opportunity for criminals. Aside from the spread of germs, there are many other concerns. A criminal can get their hands on a garage door remote that’s left visible inside your car, whether near the visor, rearview mirror, or center console. Their next stop is often the glove compartment, where the car registration will reveal your address; once a burglar finds that, they’re in business.
If you’re unfortunate enough to have your garage door remote stolen, here are some important steps to take:
Method #1: Disable/Reprogram Your Garage Door Remote
Disable your garage door opener so it cannot receive the signal from the remote control. To do this, press the Smart Button on the garage door opener’s motor. Any remote or keypad used to operate it will be deprogrammed; no signal will reach the receiver. Most openers use rolling codes that change every time the system is used and come with this intuitive feature just in case.
Make sure to deprogram all devices linked to your garage door.
After you deprogram the remote, you’ll want to reprogram the remote so you can use your garage door again. The garage door manual should explain the proper procedure for this, but copies of the maintenance manual can also be found on the manufacturer’s website. A new transmission code will enable you to regain access to your garage.
Method #2: Use the Control Panel
If the control panel is near the door or otherwise easily accessible, use the LOCK button to disable any remote signals that come in. You can still open and close the garage door using the panel. For a doorbell-type wall control, unplug the opener and use the red emergency release cord to operate the garage door instead. You can operate the door manually for now and install a lock on the side to secure it.
Garage doors come with manual controls in case of a power outage or other emergency. You can use these at any time if there is a mechanical or electrical problem, you feel there’s a safety issue, or to do maintenance.
Method #3: Install the MyQ System on Your Smartphone
LiftMaster and other brands provide an intuitive control feature called the MyQ system, which installs on your smartphone. It allows you to access the wireless system remotely. There is no need to reprogram your smartphone. This software also lets you monitor your garage door opener in real-time—from anywhere.
Take Preventative Measures
Prevention makes it harder for thieves to steal garage remotes. To reduce your chances of becoming a victim of garage remote theft:
- Always keep your car doors locked
- Avoid putting the remote in plain sight
- Hide your vehicle registration in a less popular place
- Fit a mini remote on your keychain
- Use a deadbolt for securing your garage door
Call Mesa Garage Doors for Help
Whether you need repairs, a battery, or to improve garage security, Mesa Garage Doors is here to help. If you’ve had a garage door remote stolen or feel at risk, contact us 24/7 for assistance. We can be reached anytime at 800-893-1107.
I've spent years working in home security and technology, specializing in garage door systems and their vulnerabilities. This issue is multifaceted, combining elements of physical security, wireless technology, and criminal behavior. Let me break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
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Garage Security: The article emphasizes the vulnerability of garage security as a potential entry point for burglars. Garages often hold valuable items and, when connected to the home, can provide direct access if compromised.
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Garage Door Remote Theft: Burglars target garage door remotes left in visible spots within vehicles. This can lead to easy access to the garage and subsequently the home itself. The theft of these remotes might not be immediately alarming, but it can pose a significant security threat.
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Security Measures - Disabling and Reprogramming Remote: Methods are outlined to counteract remote theft, such as disabling and reprogramming the garage door remote. Most modern openers utilize rolling codes, changing the access code each time the door is operated. Reprogramming helps create a new code, rendering the stolen remote useless.
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Control Panel and Manual Controls: The article suggests using the control panel or manual controls in case of compromised remote access. This involves using the LOCK button or the red emergency release cord to operate the garage door manually.
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Smartphone-Controlled Systems: Introducing smart technology like the MyQ system allows remote access control and monitoring of garage door openers via smartphones. This technology ensures easy reprogramming and monitoring, reducing the risk associated with physical remote theft.
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Preventative Measures: It provides preventative measures such as keeping car doors locked, hiding remotes, relocating vehicle registration, using mini remotes on keychains, and employing deadbolts for garage door security.
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Professional Assistance: Lastly, it suggests seeking professional assistance from garage door service providers, like Mesa Garage Doors, for repairs, security enhancement, or emergency situations.
Understanding these concepts helps fortify garage security and prevents unauthorized access. It's a combination of physical precautions, technological advancements, and proactive measures to safeguard against potential threats.
