Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

A home office for children has become a common request for architects, builders, and interior designers as children practice distance learning during the coronavirus. Here, a sunlit space, designed by Wadia Associates in New Canaan, features two desks and chairs, plenty of storage, bookshelves, and a gorgeous stained glass window, creating the perfect environment in which to work.

A home office for children has become a common request for architects, builders, and interior designers as children practice distance learning during the coronavirus. Here, a sunlit space, designed by

A home office for children has become a common request for architects, builders, and interior designers as children practice distance learning during the coronavirus. Here, a sunlit space, designed by Wadia Associates in New Canaan, features two desks and chairs, plenty of storage, bookshelves, and a gorgeous stained glass window, creating the perfect environment in which to work.

A home office for children has become a common request for architects, builders, and interior designers as children practice distance learning during the coronavirus. Here, a sunlit space, designed by

Theres no place like home: Design and build during the age of the coronavirus

Members of the interior design and home building industry have found it necessary to adapt to changing, evolving economies over the years. From bull markets and bear markets to recessions and post-9/11, this group of professionals has had to think creatively in order to persevere.

Now, the virulent novel coronavirus, dubbed Covid-19, has brought the entire world to a screeching halt and has radically affected the way we live, work, play, and learn, and will continue to do so for a long time to come. As various parts of the country begin to reopen, the virus is influencing the creative process. It can no longer be business as usual in this environment. Architects, interior designers, home builders, and contractors are having to think outside the box when interacting with clients, meeting with subcontractors, and presenting and installing projects.

Our vendors have offered to show their fabric lines to us virtually. They show us all the new fabrics over the computer, and then we order samples, says Jan Hiltz, an interior designer with more than 25 years experience and the owner of Westport-based Jan Hiltz Interiors. It works for me; Ive been doing this (type of work) for so long, Ive found that where theres a will, theres a way.

Were in the midst of preparing for our first Zoom presentation, adds Christine Hiltz, Jan Hiltzs daughter-in-law and an interior designer in the firm.

For some firms, virtual presentations will be the preferred procedure, at least for a few weeks or months, or longer. The virus is going to be guiding the way we do business until we get a vaccine. Things will evolve slowly, says Dinyar Wadia, principal of Wadia Associates, an award-winning architectural and interior design firm based in New Canaan. I dont think this thing is going to go away for a while. We just have to adapt.

Programs such as Zoom have been a blessing to some, like Wadia, who has noticed an unintended benefit to using the online platform: It is easier to gauge a clients or prospective clients immediate reaction to sour proposals, whereas during in-person meetings, it is rude to stare so you might miss subtle physiological responses or cues, he explains.

While some designers are choosing the practice of designing at a distance, others are bravely plunging into the fray. Wadia and Jan and Christine Hiltz are doing both, depending on the level of each clients comfort. Designers conducting in-person consultations and presentations, however, have had to arm themselves, in addition to the usual tools of color wheel, fabric swatches, and measuring tape, with masks, gloves, protective booties, and disinfectant.

Wadia notes that he is also foregoing handshakes. Although he has tested negative for Covid-19, he takes precautions to avoid exposure and prevent him from bringing the virus home to his wife, he says.

Marsha Matto, principal and head designer of Point of View Interiors in Sandy Hook, says she still conducts some in-person meetings, although they are anything but ordinary. For a recent meeting at a plumbing supply store, for example, Matto says she was required to arrive after regular business hours, wear a mask and gloves, have her temperature taken, and sign a waiver disavowing the company of any responsibility if she contracted the virus there. Business just cant happen the same way anymore, at least not for now, Matto says.

She admits, Its been difficult. And not just because some clients have put projects on hold and because of social distancing guidelines, but also because of disruptions in the supply chain. Upholsterers might still be working with a crew, albeit smaller, but theyre not able to get the cushion fillings or frames, all requisite pieces and parts that go into creating custom furniture, says Matto, who has more than 20 years of experience in high-end residential and commercial design, and who also serves as chair of the Interior Design Department at the University of Bridgeport.

The New York company she hired to pick up and deliver a furniture order in New Jersey for one of her commercial clients in Connecticut had to decline when that business was deemed nonessential, leaving Matto scrambling to arrange transport herself at a higher cost. Instead of a simple delivery and installation, it turned into a nightmare, she recalls. Frustration sets in from time to time but most people are understanding.

Robert Berger, a Westport-based architect and builder, notes that many of his clients want renovations that relate directly to the coronavirus. Homeowners are requesting that we install hands-free sinks, operated by foot pedals or a motion sensor, or a second desk or office space, ideally enclosed, as parents are working from home, and their children are distance learning, he states. Everyone is thinking about how they will be living in their homes during the age of the coronavirus, and beyond.

Washers and dryers located inside the homes point of first contact (such as in a mudroom), so residents can remove and wash their clothes as soon as they come in, are also on the wish lists of todays homeowners. Eventually, I predict well be installing exterior entry doorway panels in front of which people can wave a key and the door will open, eliminating any need to touch a doorknob, Berger explains.

Hard surfaces tend to be easier to keep clean, and design professionals are specifying materials such as stainless steel, which can be cleaned with ammonia- and alcohol-based products (brass and other metals with lacquer finishes cannot), and countertops made from quartz or other hard materials, according to Berger. Some cabinet manufacturers already carry cabinets that can be opened and closed with either wave in front of the door or a single finger push opening, he says, and I think more clients will be requesting options like these now and in the future.

Some people may think redecorating a house in the midst of a global medical pandemic is frivolous but Jan Hiltz says her work has not decreased. In fact, she has a five-month waiting list, perhaps because people are spending even more time at home than usual and who knows for how long and they want their living environments to be beautiful, and to feel safe. Now, home has become a real sanctuary, Jan Hiltz states.

She reports that her company has already received several requests for outdoor projects. Many of her clients want to install in-ground swimming pools because they dont want to go to public facilities anymore, and they also want more backyard amenities that will allow them to invite friends over while still safely socially distancing.

Life goes on, and it brings joy to people even to just consider the promise of decorating, bringing new ideas into their home, and bringing sunshine and brightness to their home, she says.

One of her clients sums it up this way: We really need this.

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There's no place like home: Design and build during the age of the coronavirus - Trumbull Times

Reality star Kameron Westcott is making moves. The Real Housewives of Dallas cast member recently put her Highland Park mansion on the market for $5,125,000.

While the price is steep, the property is massive. The 7,409-square-foot home sits on a quarter-acre of land. Designed by D Best-winning home builder George Lewis, the homes faade includes an arched front door, double balcony, and Mediterranean details, complemented by impeccably pruned landscaping.

When designing their home, the Westcotts were inspired by Kamerons Santa Barbara upbringing. [Theres a] fresh, airy, and seamless flow from indoor to outdoor living in the residence, says listing agent Kelli Macatee. Even the palm trees and cypress trees bring in a little hint of the beauty of California. Her husband Court grew up going to Santa Barbara, so they share that love and its expressed in every detail of the home.

Kamerons infamous penchant for pink is incorporated as well, though more subtly than I had expected. The kitchen is stark white, from the Carrara marble to the custom cabinetry. Her signature hue makes an appearance in the adjoining breakfast nooks abstract artwork and upholstered chairs. The dining room features neutral furniture and dark-toned still lifes, though a neon pink sign bathes the space in rosy light. The home theater has a black and red palette, but when the lights are flipped on, the room is illuminated by glittering pink sconces.

The study, on the other hand, is brazenly feminine. From the bubblegum walls to the pink zebra print chairs and gold starburst chandelier, its clear that this room is Kamerons personal retreat.

The home is full of surprises, like an elevator, a wine cellar, a game room, and a hidden room attached to the study. The backyard was made for entertaining, with multiple seating arrangements for dining al fresco, overhead fans, and an invisible screen. The pool is shaded by trees and decorated with natural stone, and the adjacent yard boasts a playhouse and slide.

Take a full tour of the Westcott home with our photo gallery below.

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Hot Property: Kameron Westcott's Glamorous Home in Highland Park - D Magazine

Nearly 100 years ago, local builder and artisan Frederick (Fritz) Ruppel tapped into his master craftsmanship to design a dream home for a very special clienthis mother, Gertrude. Nestled on a spacious, manicured lot in Pasadena, California, the 1925 Spanish Colonial Revival known today as The Ruppel House was recently put up for sale.

Frederick Ruppel was a local builder and artisan who helped restore the historic landmark Mission San Juan Capistrano. Ruppel originally built this one-level residence for his mother and later moved into the dwelling with his wife.

The 1,825-square-foot home is located close to the famous Arroyo Rose Bowl. Past trimmed hedges in the front yard, an expansive outdoor seating area offers a private corner to gather.

The 1,825-square-foot dwelling remains in pristine condition, blending original features with sensitive updates throughout the years. The heart of the home is a large living room that boasts beamed cathedral ceilings and opens to a courtyard and fountain. Arched doorways connect the interior spaces, while custom built-ins enhance the historic charm.

Upon arrival, an entryway leads into the home's main living room where a breathtaking beamed ceiling takes center stage.

In total, the house includes three bedrooms and two baths. The remodeled kitchen offers light blue cabinetry, adding a pop of color to the otherwise wood and terracotta tones. A private side patio is idyllic for a future herb garden. Scroll ahead to see more of the property, currently listed for $1,495,000.

A wood-burning fireplace anchors the living area, while French doors open to a courtyard.

Light blue cabinetry in the kitchen infuse a fresh aesthetic while providing an abundance of storage. All new appliances were also installed, including a double Viking range.

Another view of the kitchen. Additional cabinetry along the rear wall sit adjacent to a door leading outside.

Steps away from the kitchen is the formal dining room which includes original hardwood floors and beamed ceilings.

French doors in the master bedroom open to an additional private patio.

Custom cabinetry lines one of the walls in the master bath. Original tiles line the floors.

A closer look at the original tiled shower/tub in the master bath.

A peek at another one of the three bedrooms.

The other bathrooms also features original tile-work.

Thick landscaping surrounds the home, ensuring ample privacy while creating a city oasis.

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An Artist Handcrafted This Abode as a Thank You to His Mom Nearly One Hundred Years Ago - Dwell

New research indicates that infosec professionals are more concerned about their employers security than the security of their own home, with the vast majority saying recent data breaches in the business sector have increased their organizations focus on securing data.

Data security has become a nemesis for IT professionals. A patchwork approach, misconfigured services and confusion around new cloud security models has created a crisis of confidence among information security professionals. According to the Oracle and KPMG Cloud Threat Report 2020, this issue will only be fixed if businesses make security part of their culture.

Almost three quarters of organizations have or plan to hire a CISO with more cloud security skills, and over half of organizations have, in fact, added a new role called Business Information Security Officer (BISO) to collaborate with the CISO and help integrate security culture into the business.

Fear and trust issues experienced by IT professionals is echoed in a recent Bitdefender study showing half of security professionals in large organizations across the US, EMEA and APAC are literally losing sleep worrying about their organizational cybersecurity posture.

Asked if theyve ever been kept awake at night out of concern their company might get hacked, half of the respondents in our study answered sure without hesitation. Asked what causes the most stress in their role, 36% of CISOs cited a lack of cybersecurity understanding from general employees.

The KPMG report reveals these fears are not only ongoing, but that theyve mushroomed in recent months.The study found that IT professionals are more concerned about the security of their companys data than the security of their own home.

IT professionals are 3X more concerned about the security of company financials and intellectual property than their home security, the study says.

80 percent worry that the cloud service providers they deal with will become competitors in their core markets, highlighting IT professionals concerns that cloud service providers might steal their intellectual property. 75 percent of IT professionals also said they view the public cloud as more secure than their own data centers. However, 92 percent of IT professionals do not believe their organization is well prepared to secure public cloud services.

In another key finding, around 80 percent of IT professionals say that recent data breaches experienced by their competitors have increased their organizations focus on securing data.

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Infosec Professionals Are More Worried About Corporate Security than Their Own Home Security - Security Boulevard

Boca Raton-based home security provider ADTconducted a surveyof 1,001 Americans who consume true crime content.

True crime has taken over popular culture, evolving from a niche topic into one of our favorite entertainment and storytelling genres. But watching or listening to true crime stories or mysteries has entered our psyche, and as we become aware of the need to protect our families, our buying habits turn to security devices.

The survey showed that women are more likely to experience negative emotional consequences after consuming this type of content. Compared to men, women were more likely to worry about their family's safety (31.3%), their own safety (27.7%), and to feel anxious, scared, or paranoid (24.4%, 23%, and 22.2%, respectively) after reading, watching, or listening to true crime.

Yet women were almost twice as likely as men to consume true crime every day. The most popular formats included TV shows (87%), movies (75.4%), and books (43%). Less than 28% of people listened to true crime podcasts, which were more than twice as popular among millennials compared to baby boomers.

Over two out of three (69.1%) people in the US believed that the events portrayed in true crime content could happen to their own family. Over two in five (44.1%) check their locks at night, 16.4% carry pepper spray, and 15.6% go out in groups only.

The most popular home security additions chosen by respondents were surveillance cameras (which were installed by 10% more men than women), a doorbell camera, and a security system.

People enjoy being scared in situations they can control and are comforted by horror movies or TV shows -- even shows that are tense and unnerving. Knowing that these shows are not real can make horror stories entertaining and enjoyable.

Almost two out of three (57%) of people said that they preferred true crime content with actual footage or recordings, and nearly as many (56.9%) said footage or recordings made the content scarier.

Over two out of five (44.3%) reported taking a break from true crime content as they found it too overwhelming for them.

The survey showed that installing security cameras made people feel less scared about being home alone at night down from 44.5% to 23.2%. Occurrences of nightmares and hearing noises also reduced after installing security cameras.

Installing security cameras can be really simple. I installed an outdoor security camera in less than 20 minutes last week, and I am testing several more indoor cameras which have added to me feeling more secure.

If you need peace of mind, buy a low-cost security camera. Then you can watch all of the true-crime stories you want to without being overwhelmed.

I tried the Netvue 1080p Vigil security camera for external surveillance, and I was so impressed with it, I bought two more.

I tried the Netvue Orb 1080p security camera and was impressed by its indoor detection, remote control and two-way voice features.

Americans are being impacted by this fraud-filled crisis as bad actor activity escalates.

Although Americans worry about their devices being hacked, most are happy to share their passwords.

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Surveillance cameras are top home security feature installed after consuming true crime content - ZDNet

Several years ago, James Kerr frequently traveled for work and wanted his family to feel more secure in the home while he was away. So, the mechanical engineer sought security window coverings that would meet his needs.

Not impressed with much of what he saw on the market, Kerr played with the idea of creating a product himself when he came across a stainless steel screen material rated to handle hurricane weather. He developed concepts for frames that would secure the screens into the windows of stucco homes in Southern Nevada. This eventually led to him launching Las Vegas-based Boss Security Screens.

It has the look and feel of an ordinary solar screen, but once you touch it, you know theres no way to get in. We even guarantee that, he said.

Thanks to products like Kerrs, the window covering market has evolved through the years to offer better security with aesthetic appeal. The same can be said for security doors, shutters and other security coverings. Heres a look at why todays window and door coverings are considered a worthwhile upgrade for Southern Nevada homeowners.

Weighing the investment

Boss Security Screens are engineered to securely mount to the outside of all types of window frames of stucco homes. They also have an ADA-compliant hinge requiring only 5 pounds of pressure to push the screen open from the inside, if needed. The dense weave screen also reduces solar energy by 65 percent to help save on cooling bills, while also offering plenty of airflow and visible light for those perfect spring or fall days when a homeowner wants to crack open a window or the front door.

Available for sliders and French doors as well, each piece is custom-made for a clients home. Larger windows cost around $1,000 each, and sliders and French doors may cost around $2,500 or $3,000, Kerr said.

A standard bug screen may only cost around $100, but dense security mesh products are really part of an entirely different conversation. Theyre made with much higher-grade materials and are engineered to withstand someone trying to cut or smash their way through them, so you should expect to pay quite a bit more.

Melissa Roche Amos, the owner of the local interior design firm Parlor 430, said about 25 percent of her clients request window and door coverings. One of the reasons she happily suggests them is the positive effect on property values.

The one thing thats important to me is increasing the value of the home, and these are features that absolutely do that, she said.

Wrought iron or screened security entry doors are the most popular first step to adding security and enhancing value, she said.

Its something a lot of people want. They may not think oh I want that fancy front door when they visit a home, but once they see one in place, they want it, she added. The great thing is that you can get one thats beautiful, modern, inexpensive and super stylish.

Prices can range from a few hundred dollars at a big box retailer up to several thousand dollars for a custom-made installed wrought-iron security door. Regardless of the amount you spend, the designer says its important to not over-personalize it. Keep designs simple and sleek for resale value.

Other window coverings

Roche Amos said screens often leave a home a little darker. To some, however, thats a selling point because it helps a home stay cooler during hot summer months. If a client likes screens but wants a little more light, the interior designer uses a low-energy bright bulb, such as a 4000k bulb you can find at a hardware store.

She suggests rolling shutters for clients who like control over natural lighting. Many will leave the shutters closed during the day in the summertime but open them up to watch sunsets or to enjoy scenery during cooler hours of the day.

Motorized options will cost more, she said, and you can expect to pay several hundred dollars to more than $1,000 for a window rolling shutter. If you like certain screen or rolling shutter options, but they are a little too expensive, the designer offers a good compromise.

You can put them on the east- and west-facing windows, not the north and south secondary windows where youre not getting direct light, she said.

Security window film

Security window film also has grown in popularity. Richard Miller, owner of Green Valley Tint &Graphics, one of the largest installers of security film in the country, has experienced a business boom as homeowners worry about increases in home break-ins, some of which are the result of a growing opioid epidemic, he said.

In business since the mid-1980s and with installations on more than 11,000 valley homes, his company sells both 3M and Armorcoat security films that can withstand the force of stacked stone. They also are used in a number of commercial situations such as offices, schools and retail outlets prone to robberies.

People are turning to security film because they dont want people getting into their homes, he said, and it doesnt interfere with the view and doesnt make the place look like a prison.

Security film also is reasonably priced. Most films range between $8 and $12 a square foot, Miller said, while ceramic blends can cost from $16 to $24 per square foot. Some keep out more than 95 percent of a windows solar gain, too.

Miller admits his tints are just part of the solution when it comes to a homes overall security. He suggests security doors on patios and the front door, camera systems, video doorbells and other measures for clients.

He offers one cautionary note when seeking a reputable window film installer. When it comes to applying films to sliding and French doors, some companies overlook the need to adhere the film to the frame to keep the glass in place if an intruder tries to break in. Its a commonly overlooked detail that can be the difference between someone gaining access to the home or not, he said.

With these installations, its not as easy as some think. You have to know what youre doing, he added. There are a lot of guys who get into this business only to realize theres a lot they dont know and they get out. Make sure you go with a reputable vendor.

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Home security starts with windows and doors - Las Vegas Review-Journal

An employee of Boca Raton-based ADT Security Services had access to streaming security camera footage from inside homes of hundreds of the company's customers, according to a federal lawsuit filed Monday, May 18, 2020.

(Joe Cavaretta/Sun Sentinel)

At least 220 Dallas-Fort Worth families were spied on in their homes by an ADT employee who hacked home security cameras in the area, according to the security company.

Two class-action federal lawsuits were filed Monday against ADT, which is one of the largest security companies in the country. One suit was filed on behalf of ADT customers and the other represents those who were spied on in those customers homes.

In April, aDFW customer discovered an unknown person had access to their ADT security camera. After an investigation, ADT found an employee had access to hundreds of customers accounts and had been watching people in their homes for seven years, according to the lawsuits filed in the Southern District of Florida, where the company is based.

I am just horrified that a company that holds itself as the number one security option allowed this to happen, attorney Amy Carter said. They gave access to someones home when they were seeking additional security.

In a statement, ADT said the company reported to police in April that an employee gained access to 220 accounts in the Dallas area. A spokesman said the company put measures in place to prevent this from happening again, but did not expand on what those measures were. The employee has since been fired.

We deeply regret what happened to the 220 customers affected by this incident and have contacted them to help resolve their concerns, the statement said. We are supporting law enforcements investigation of the former employee and are committed to helping bring justice to those impacted by his improper actions.

In late April, ADT started to contact customers and tell them what happened. The company offered confidentially agreements to customers in exchange for monetary payments, according to the lawsuit.

One of those customers was DFW resident Shana Doty, the plaintiff in the first lawsuit.

ADT told Doty over the phone that the technician who worked on her indoor security camera system had granted himself remote access and had spied on her, her husband and her minor son an unknown amount of times, according to the lawsuit. Based on the position of the wide-angle camera, the technician would have been able to see the family members in their bedrooms in all of their private moments.

Other customers got the same call. One worked for Homeland Security and had a teenage daughter, who had also been viewed on the camera. Another was a mother who found out she and her daughter had been spied upon in the nude and their most private moments, Carter said.

Carter said they do not know where all the affected customers live, but they believe most of them are in the DFW area, south of Interstate 30. That area includes Fort Worth, Dallas and Arlington. Carter said they believe up to 400 households could have been hacked.

Flawed security system

The technician was able to give himself access to peoples cameras and homes because ADT did not set up simple security protections, Carter said.

The technician would add his email onto customers accounts in the ADT Pulse app when he installed or did work on a camera, the suit said. ADT did not have a dual security system in place to notify customers when an email was added. The technician was not only able to spy on households in real time, but he was also able to review previous footage, download clips and upload them to the internet, according to the lawsuit.

This was the system and policy they had set up nationwide, fellow attorney Matthew McCarley said. We dont feel very confident at all this hasnt happened elsewhere.

ADT serves 7.2 million residential and business customersin the U.S. and Canada, according to the companys website.

Carter said the FBI is investigating the employee, who was identified as Telesforo Aviles in the lawsuit. DeSoto police were also involved in the investigation, she said.

The lawsuit is asking for more than $5 million in compensation.

McCarley said ADT customers should verify who has access to their cameras and double check no one else has email access or permission to view footage.

We hope that based on the facts of the case that ADT will take this seriously and get this resolved as soon as possible, McCarley said. Because a lot of people have been hurt. The invasion of someones privacy you cant get that back.

2020 the Fort Worth Star-Telegram

Visit the Fort Worth Star-Telegram atwww.star-telegram.com

Distributed byTribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Former ADT employee spied on hundreds of Dallas area families for 7 years, company says - SecurityInfoWatch

The Total Home Comfort and Security Bundle is a high-end home security and automation kit from Ecobee. At $499, it's expensive -- closest to theNest Secure Alarm System in terms of style and price. But it's a solid system that makes efficient use of each device and automates settings for you based on your phone's location so you don't have to remember to set arm or disarm modes. The system works with Alexa and Siri.

Ecobee doesn't offer professional monitoring (yet) and you have to pay for the company's optional Haven subscription serviceto use the auto-arm/disarm feature called Autopilot, as well as access the camera's 14-day video clip storage in the Ecobee app.

Still, I like this system and recommend it, especially if you want -- or already have -- an Ecobee thermostat or other Ecobee devices.

Ecobee got its start making smart thermostats. Its most recent model, theSmartThermostat with voice control, is our current favorite thermostat. The SmartThermostat has a built-in Alexa speaker that also works with Google Assistant and Siri commands.

But the company has branched out in recent years to offer a smart light switch, device accessories like ambient temperature sensors -- and now home security devices.

Amazon helps fund Ecobee, whose thermostats compete with Google's Nest models.

Ecobee's $499 Total Home Comfort and Security Bundle includes one $249 SmartThermostat with voice control, one $179 SmartCamera with voice control, two SmartSensors for doors or windows (also sold in a $79 two-pack) and three temperature SmartSensors (also sold in a $79 two-pack). All of those devices sold individually would clock in closer to $600, so you're technically getting a deal with this home security and automation bundle. If you already have the thermostat (which comes with one SmartSensor), Ecobee does sell a Home Security Bundle for $279 with just the camera, two door or window sensors and two temperature sensors.

If you opt to design your own system a la carte, keep in mind that you do need either the Ecobee SmartCamera or the SmartThermostat to use the SmartSensors on doors or windows.

Like the Ecobee SmartThermostat, the SmartCamera has a built-in Alexa speaker. The system's door and window sensors can track motion (a person walking by) as well as movement (whether the door is open or closed).

Nest's $399 Secure Alarm System starter kit includes a keypad hub, two key fobs and two motion-and-movement-sensing door or window sensors. Nest's keypad hub, called the Nest Guard, has a built-in Google Assistant speaker.

Despite a different combination of devices (Ecobee's system doesn't have a keypad and Nest's doesn't have a camera or doorbell, although you could scale up by adding those Nest devices), they followed a similar pattern with door and window sensors that double as motion sensors and security devices that also offer integrated voice assistants.

Setting up the Ecobee system starts with downloading the Ecobee app and creating an account. Hit the plus sign in the top-right corner of the main screen to add each new device. Ecobee makes it easy by asking you to scan QR codes on the devices, guiding you through the process step-by-step to name your product and get it online.

The thermostat is a bit more time consuming to install. (I go into more detail on that installation in the SmartThermostat with voice control review.) In general, if you have questions about your home's electrical setup, consult a professional electrician before you get started -- or hire an expert installer to do it for you.

Follow the simple steps to connect each device.

Now playing: Watch this: Ecobee's new thermostat is part Alexa speaker

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You can't do much if you don't pay for the optional Haven service. Basically, you can view the SmartCamera's live feed -- and that's about it.

With Haven, which starts at $5 per month for one SmartCamera (or $10 per month for multiple SmartCameras), you get 14 days of saved cloud storage clips and Autopilot, a cool feature that arms and disarms the system -- and turns the camera on and off -- based on the location of your phone. If you add other family members to the account, Haven will also track their location, so the system won't arm if you leave but another family member is still at home. You also get alerts when motion is detected or a door or window is opened or closed. (Nope, that doesn't come standard with the system unless you pay for Haven, although Ecobee tells me this will change "in the next month or so.")

Haven doesn't include professional monitoring, either. It's more of a cloud storage subscription plan that also happens to include the ability to arm and disarm the system, the auto-arm/disarm Autopilot feature and alerts. I find this combination of free versus fee-based Haven services disappointing, since the basic ability to arm or disarm a system yourself manually and alerts are typically free.

For that reason, I wouldn't buy these Ecobee devices unless you plan to pay for Haven.

The devices themselves work extremely well. The motion and door and window alerts were responsive, the camera's live feed was crisp and the temperature sensors and thermostat add an additional layer of motion detection for the rest of the system. With Autopilot enabled, the system successfully armed when I left home and disarmed when I returned. If you don't like the auto-arming and disarming, you can adjust the settings in the app for manual arming and disarming.

The camera's built-in Alexa speaker doesn't help much with the security camera-Alexa integrations, since you'd need an Alexa-enabled smart display to pull up the live video feed or have a two-way talk conversation, but it can handle the same basics as any other Alexa speaker -- general questions, games, music and smart home control.

I don't have an Amazon-branded Alexa device to test out whether the Echo Spatial Perception (ESP) feature works with the SmartCamera, although Ecobee tells me it does have ESP.

It's also important to consider a company's privacy statement and security policiesbefore buying a device or service. You can check out Ecobee's privacy policy here. Ecobee requires two-factor authentication for SmartCamera customers; it's optional for everyone else.

The complete system costs $499, not including the optional Haven subscription fee, starting at $5 per month.

The Ecobee Total Home Comfort and Security Bundle works well. I like that every device performs multiple functions, from temperature tracking to motion detection and live video streaming. The camera is well-designed, and its built-in Alexa speaker gives it more functionality than a standard security camera. I like the design of the app; it's user-friendly and easy to add new devices.

That said, Ecobee doesn't offer enough free features for this system to be used as a self-installed, self-monitored system. You can't even receive alerts or arm the system without a Haven subscription. So while Haven is technically optional in that it's a month-to-month contract-free service, you really do need it. If that doesn't bother you, this system might be for you. Otherwise, I'd look elsewhere.

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Ecobee review: A Haven subscription is a must with this home security bundle - CNET

Leaving the house may increase your chances of contracting COVID-19, but working from home may make you more susceptible to another kind of virus. A computer virus. The cybersecurity firm RISKIQ predicts the coronavirus outbreak will give hackers one of their best opportunities in recent years to attack computer networks around the world.

There are many reports that hackers are busy targeting people working from home on their work computer and if you dont have someone from IT a few cubicles away youre it. Here are some things you should do the next time you fire up your computer.

One of the most important things is to keep your software updated. On just about any software you can click the help or support tab at the top of the page, and then check for updates. You might need to ask your IT person before updating. Most of these updates include security fixes to address any vulnerabilities.

If you seldom turn off your computer but just put it to sleep, get in the habit of turning it off at least once a week. When you turn it back on itll automatically search for and install updates on the operating system. This is especially true and important if you use a Windows computer. Enable 2-factor authentication. If you log out and then back on, youll have to allow the program or social media site to send you a text message to make sure youre you and not some hackers trying to access your accounts. Do this for any online account including Facebook, Google and even Netflix.

Its a hassle, I know. You can also pick up one of these security keys. This is a Yubikey. Insert it into a flash drive on your computer and anytime youre logging into certain accounts, you can just tap the key so it sees your fingerprint.

If youre on your work computer it probably has anti-virus and anti-malware programs. If youre on yours though, make sure you have something to protect yourself from viruses and malware. If youre looking for something good, free and safe, AVG guards against hacks and C-Cleaner scans your computer for problems and eliminates them. Malwarebytes focuses on malware searches for programs that could cause problems that youve accidentally downloaded from the internet.

The best thing you can do, is to be careful about any links you click, whether its on a website, social media site or in an e-mail. Dont click on anything without asking yourself, can I really trust it? But if youre working on your companys laptop or connecting to the companys network servers check with the IT department before downloading or installing anything.

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What The Tech: Working from home security - KFDX - Texomashomepage.com

Everyone would like to be in a state of fat city when it comes to their safety and security. No one wants their safety and security to be compromised in any way. People get away doing some of the heinous crimes and committing foul play under ones nose and many times police cannot do anything much. It is so because there is a lack of sound safety and security systems.

To address the alarming rate of burglary, theft, robbery cases, a large variety of home surveillance systems comes as salvation.

They act as a crutch, hold down crime rates, and are most recommended when it comes to service, pricing, and some more inbuilt security features. Multi-faceted systems with Infrared detectors, window sensors, automatic sirens, recording features, and connectivity with Google and Alexa have helped you to pull through. They substantiate for the crime to a larger extent and are a crux for solving the first-degree murders. These products have undergone ballistic testing to meet customer expectations. One such system is Kangaroo that puts home security within your reach.

In this article, we will consider the following topics:

Lets dive in to see the nuts and bolts of Kangaroo.

Kangaroo keeps your home safe and provides ultimate protection to your data. All the products are sophisticated, easy to set-up, and use. In short, they give due respect to your money. Kangaroo is one state of the art and second to none system that is affordable and provides video surveillance as well as remote management by mobile app for convenient control.

Some of the Kangaroo products are Doorbell Camera, Free Privacy Camera, Free Home Security Kit, Motion Sensor, Water Climate Sensor, Motion+ Entry Sensor, Front Door Security Kit, etc.

Some of the basic Accessories that come handy with products are Roo Tags, Siren + Keypad, etc.

Privacy Camera

Safest security camera for your home. This comes up with features like 3x zoom and night vision. PDLC Privacy Shield Lens makes you monitor your home from anywhere. With one tap in the app, the lens gets transformed into an opaque shield providing visual verification and your privacy is protected.

Key Features of Privacy Camera:

Install Kangaroo Security App that keeps your home safe from disasters or break-ins.

Key Features of Home Security Kit

Motion Sensor

Wireless motion sensor detects any household disturbances and alerts everyone on phone or contacts emergency services.

Water + Climate Sensor

It can be used in basements, high-humidity areas or can be placed under a sink. It detects water, changes in temperature and humidity, and thereby sending an alarm to your phone.

Front Door Security Kit

This includes Doorbell Camera, two Motion + Entry Sensors, Siren + Keypad.

Roo Tags

It helps you switch between Arm and Disarm with a single tap of the Siren. It is ideal for guests, tenants, children, etc. for whom you want to provide limited access.

Siren + Keypad

It uses microphones and can be used with sensors to provide an audible household alarm when it is triggered. It works with frequencies between 3000-4000 Hz. Any sound below this range cannot be picked up.

However, Kangaroo ticks off the list plus additionally it provides some other bells and whistles that are as below:

With a professionally installed security system, someone from the company will expound you about all the available plans, type, and quantity of equipment that is right up to your alley. They may skew the equipment package if required. This will save hours and days of straining when it comes to the size of your home, the complexity of the systems, and your technical abilities. However, it can also result in paying a lot of money for a long-term contract costing 100$ or more (cost an arm and a leg).

While installing a DIY System like Kangaroo, it requires an activation fee and disposal of long-term contracts. It requires you to study and vetting of a device to install it properly and for its seamless operation. They have a step by step instructions laid out and phone support to make your job cushy.

DIY Equipment has been in use in recent years but they are too complex when it comes to fulfilling your security requirements. For a small condo with a few doors and windows, DIY can be fine. However, for more specialized needs, a professional company is to be bank upon.

Concerning the increasing rate of crimes, a robust home security system like Kangaroo comes to rescue as a barebone of protection. Any system, in general, in todays time, should entail at the bare minimum:

74% of survey respondents said that the home security system makes them feel safe.

A video doorbell is another most popular security product (18%) with a professionally monitored home security system.

Home security product ownership is most popular amongst 18-34 years aged persons with 41% owning a security system.

As challenges have advanced, so have the solutions. People are in the lookout for those systems that are keeping pace with the latest technology to meet growing needs.

In general, if you have to rate any home security as the best that will entirely depend on your needs and living situations.

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The Most Reliable Home Security Solution - Global Banking And Finance Review