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DNS HACKING THAT DISRUPTS COMMUNICATION
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Ken
On a recent conference call, the president of the Alarm Association of Florida conveyed the need for security dealers, like us, to have a disclaimer on our forms that absolves us from responsibility in the event of DNS hacking that disrupts communication to internet-based security technology.
Do you have any verbiage we can add to our forms that addresses cyber-security of this nature?
Best Regards,
Bobby McAfee, Marketing Director
Crime Prevention Security Systems
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RESPONSE
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The Standard All in One Agreements were updated a few years ago to make clear alarm systems do not necessarily meet Advanced Encryption Standard specifications for encryption of electronic data established by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology and ALARM COMPANY shall have no liability for access to the alarm system by others. This was an important change to the Standard Form, but certainly not the only one and perhaps not the most important one. As alarm systems move more and more to wireless components and "over air" communication pathways, the opportunity for interception increases.
Like so many other issues, alarm companies need to carefully contract away liability. You ignore this advice at your own peril. If you think you can put together the contracts yourself, "borrow" a form from your buddy or have it prepared by an attorney that does not specialize in this industry [and have the last name Kirschenbaum] then I urge you to reconsider. While Kirschenbaum TM contracts will definitely add significant value when you want to sell your alarm contracts, these contracts will capture your full attention in the event you get sued for alarm system or service failure.
Update your contracts every few years. If in doubt if you need to update contact our Contract Administrator Eileen Wagda at 516 747 6700 x 312 today.
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