METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INTERFACING SECURITY SYSTEMS BY PERIODIC CHECK IN WITH REMOTE FACILITY

Security systems, such as in a home or other building, periodically transmit status data to a remote facility so that the remote facility is continuously informed of the security systems' status. A user interface device at one security system, or a web browser at a personal computer, can obtain information regarding, or provide commands to, one or more other security systems at remote locations by communicating with the remote facility. The remote facility also reports specified events, such as alarms, that occur at a security system to one or more other security systems. Other information, such as video and audio data from a security system, can also be provided to the remote facility for sharing with other security systems. An intercom feature can also be established via the remote facility.