Dive Summary:

• Researchers say that anyone could theoretically be able to intercept signals transmitted from smart meters with about $1,000 of equipment that is available on the open market.
• Since energy usage usually drops to near zero when a house is empty, thieves could use the equipment to detect when no one is at home.
• The research team created a receiver from readily available components and were able to pick up transmissions from meters 300 yards away and monitored almost 500 meters simultaneously.

From the article:

Wireless utility meters found on many homes and small businesses could be putting out a welcome mat for would-be burglars, U.S. security experts say.

Analog meters that measure water, gas and electricity consumption are rapidly being replaced by automated meters that broadcast readings every 30 seconds for utility company employees to read as they walk or drive by with a receiver. ...