Previous Homeowners May Still Have Access to Your Smart Home — Here’s How To Check

Moving into a new property can be a scary and intimidating process. There are so many new things to learn, and the last thing a new homeowner wants to worry about is home security. And while you should absolutely change the locks after moving in, proper safety measures don’t end there.

It’s possible for previous homeowners to still have access to smart home tech they left behind. Security cameras, thermostats, and other smart devices can remain linked to the previous owner’s account without the new homeowner realizing it.

Learn which devices need resetting, and what new homeowners should do to keep their homes secure.

How to Check If Previous Homeowners Still Have Access to Smart Home Devices

Unfortunately, there’s no easy way to tell just by looking at a device.

“It is much safer to just assume the old owner can still access them,” says Kurtis Baron, an offensive security specialist at the cybersecurity company Echo Secure.

Nathan Connell, founder and editor of Future Technology, recommends trying to register each device through its manufacturer’s app. If the app says someone else already owns it, the previous account may still be linked. For example, Ring has an ownership transfer process for previously registered cameras and doorbells. Connell also recommends checking the app’s shared users list for unfamiliar accounts.

“The previous owner, or anyone they shared access with, can still unlock doors, open the garage or watch camera feeds remotely,” Connell says.

Which Smart Home Devices Should New Homeowners Reset After Moving In?

Baron recommends resetting all inherited smart devices, including cameras, alarms, locks, thermostats, and connected appliances. Some might be harder to identify than others. According to the Federal Trade Commission, “light bulbs or security systems may be difficult to detect as ‘smart’ devices.”

Homeowners should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove the previous account, factory reset each device, and register it under their own account. Google’s moving guide explains how to transfer Nest devices, some of which require the previous owner to remove them first.

“Old PIN codes on keypad locks and alarm panels often stay active too,” Connell says.

Homeowners should delete old codes, create new ones, and remove any existing guest access.

The home’s router also needs attention.

“The key to privacy in the Internet-of-Things (IoT) world is your router,” according to the FTC, since connected devices typically access the internet through it.

Baron recommends getting a new router rather than reusing the previous owner’s equipment. Homeowners should also set up their own Wi-Fi password and check for unfamiliar connected devices.

When to Replace Smart Home Devices Instead of Resetting Them

Some older smart devices may need replacing, especially if the manufacturer no longer provides security updates. Baron recommends replacing anything that can’t be fully factory reset or has become outdated.

A device linked to a previous owner’s account doesn’t always need replacing, though. Some manufacturers offer ownership transfers or can help new homeowners regain control. Until then, homeowners shouldn’t rely on an inherited smart lock or security camera for protection.

What to Ask Sellers About Smart Home Devices Before Closing

Connell recommends asking sellers for a list of every connected device included in the sale, along with manuals, hub information, and account transfer instructions.

The FTC also recommends leaving behind manuals that explain smart features, particularly those that might be difficult for new homeowners to identify. Sellers should confirm they’ve removed their accounts and revoked access for anyone previously authorized to use the devices.

Baron suggests including a requirement in the closing paperwork confirming that the seller has removed access to all smart devices included in the sale. That gives new homeowners a chance to set up their own accounts and passwords without leaving access in someone else’s hands.

Sources

Interviewed sources:

Kurtis Baron, offensive security specialist at Echo Secure, a UK cybersecurity and penetration testing company
Nathan Connell, founder and editor of Future Technology

Other primary sources:

Federal Trade Commission, “Buying or Selling a “Smart” Home? Read This”
Federal Trade Commission, “Securing Your Internet-Connected Devices at Home”
Ring, “Transfer Ownership of a Ring Device”
Google Home and Nest Help, “Moving Guide for Google Home and Nest Devices”

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