In the United States in 2012 there were more than 2 million burglaries, or about one every 15 seconds, according to government crime figures.
Large established companies and startups are offering apps that connect remotely to monitoring systems to help consumers keep their homes and property secure.
Viper Connect, for iPhone and Android, is an app that monitors homes and cars. The company supplies a do-it-yourself security system with motion sensors and video cameras, which can be placed around the home, and watched remotely.
"Traditionally unless a home had already been wired for security and automation, it was difficult and expensive for people to get the advantage of home security," said James Turner, vice president of product development at Viper, which is owned by Directed Electronics, in Vista, California.
With the Viper Connect app homeowners can turn the security on or off remotely. If there is any motion in the home it sends a notification to the users. For an extra fee, real-time video feeds from cameras placed around the home can also be viewed.
The app can monitor up to 64 devices, including sirens, sensors and as many as eight cameras.
"Normally, when you're a considering home security system, you tend to think where are the areas in my home susceptible to break-in," Turner said.
The starter kit, which includes two sensors, costs $229.99. Additional accessories are also available to control lighting, thermostats and garage doors. The app is free but premium services, such as access to video feeds, costs $9.99 each month.
For $199, iSmart Alarm, connects to a similar system and lets users monitor their system without signing on for a monthly plan. The Oplink app, which costs $149, requires a monthly package that starts at $9.99.
Source : MSN News
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