I DO NOT TRUST THE INTERNET OF THINGS: Update gone wrong leaves 500 smart locks inoperable.

Hundreds of Internet-connected locks became inoperable last week after a faulty software update caused them to experience a fatal system error, manufacturer LockState said.

The incident is the latest reminder that the so-called Internet of Things—in which locks, thermostats, and other everyday appliances are embedded with small Internet-connected computers—often provide as many annoyances as they do conveniences. Over the past week, the Colorado-based company’s Twitter feed has been gorged with comments from customers who were suddenly unable to lock or unlock their doors normally. Complicating the matter: the affected LockState model—the RemoteLock 6i—is included in an Airbnb partnership called Host Assist. That left many hosts unable to remotely control their locks.

IoT is fine for fun things, like giving even middle class Americans mood lighting options previously only available to the rich. But giving web-enabled devices the power to control ingress to your home or business didn’t seem like such a good idea even before this incident.