Smart locks and digital door locks have long become commonplace, yet some prejudices persist. Some stem from the early days of the technology, others from poorly designed budget products. It's time to examine the most common myths and debunk them with facts.
Myth 1: Smart locks are insecure because they can be hacked
The classic. The idea: If something is digital, it can also be digitally cracked. Sounds logical, but it's generally wrong.
The reality: Modern smart locks use the same encryption standards as online banking, such as AES-256. A forced entry of the door is still the much more common method for burglaries in practice. A mechanical cylinder can be picked in seconds with the right tools, leaving no traces. A high-quality digital cylinder like the ELCON EL2 or ELCON EL20 is significantly better protected against such attacks.
The ELCON EL50 goes one step further: It is mounted completely on the inside of your door and is not visible from the outside at all. Anyone standing in front of it sees a completely normal door with a classic keyhole. So, for potential burglars, there is no indication that a smart lock is in use here.
It is important to pay attention to two things: solid encryption and a provider that consistently provides security updates. At ELCON, all communication is encrypted, and data is stored exclusively in the EU in compliance with GDPR.
Myth 2: The smart lock doesn't work without internet
Many believe that a smart lock needs a permanent Wi-Fi connection, otherwise it will fail. This is true for some providers, but it is not a law of nature.
The reality: ELCON digital cylinders work completely offline via Bluetooth. This means that even if your internet goes down, your router fails, or the provider's server is unreachable, you can still open your door normally via app, PIN, or transponder.
Remote access via the ELCON Bridge is optional, not a prerequisite. So, anyone who wants to control locally can do so at any time. Anyone who wants to open the door from vacation can simply add the Bridge later.
Myth 3: Smart locks incur ongoing costs through subscriptions
Unfortunately, for some providers, this is part of their business model: Without an active subscription, key functions such as app control or user management remain blocked. Anyone who has experienced this is rightly skeptical.
The reality: There is another way. With ELCON, you pay once at the time of purchase and use your smart lock permanently, without monthly recurring costs. All core functions such as app control, user management, and logging are included indefinitely.
This, by the way, is one of the reasons why many customers come to ELCON: no hidden costs, no unpleasant surprises after a few years.
Myth 4: Installation is complicated and requires a locksmith
The thought deters many: new lock, new door, extensive modification. Sounds like a lot of effort and high costs.
The reality: A smart digital cylinder simply replaces the existing cylinder in your door. No drilling, no milling, no wiring. Anyone who has ever changed a mechanical locking cylinder (or even if they haven't) can usually complete the installation in under 15 minutes, with nothing more than a screwdriver.
The only important thing is that the cylinder length is correct. We show you how to measure it correctly in our cylinder length guide. Or you can use the ELCON compatibility check, which recommends the right model in just a few steps.
If you still prefer to be on the safe side, you can also book professional installation with ELCON.
Myth 5: Smart locks are only for tech enthusiasts
The prejudice persists: digital locks are complicated gadgets for people who like to spend hours configuring apps. Too complex for everyday life, too confusing, too much.
The reality: A modern smart lock is easier to operate than a set of keys. Once set up, the door opens automatically via Bluetooth as soon as you approach. You can assign access codes for tradespeople, cleaners, or guests with two or three clicks in the app. That's it.
And the everyday gain is concrete: no lost keys, no waiting outside the door, no key copying at the locksmith. That's why not only tech enthusiasts are upgrading, but also families, vacation rental owners, and businesses that want to organize their access efficiently.
Conclusion: More clarity, fewer prejudices
Many concerns about smart locks are based on outdated information or experiences with immature budget products. Anyone who takes the time to look closely will quickly realize: A well-made digital cylinder is secure, suitable for everyday use, easy to install, and actually makes life simpler.
With ELCON, you choose an Austrian solution without a subscription, with GDPR-compliant data storage in the EU, and reliable offline operation.
Do you have questions? Our experts will be happy to advise you free of charge and without obligation by phone at +43 1 3000 966 or via WhatsApp at +43 676 848 850 300. Would you like to see the products in person? Visit our showroom in Vienna at Schüttelstraße 29.
View all smart digital cylinders or go directly to the Compatibility Check.
