IMPORTANT CAVEAT: Once you have completed this process, Google has stated that you will not be able to unblur!
Recently, we helped a client who had significant privacy and security concerns after leaving an abusive relationship and wanted to know how they could blur their new home on Google and Apple Maps. Google and Apple Maps, while incredibly useful for navigation and exploration, also pose significant privacy concerns as they can be exploited by stalkers and criminals (1)(2). These powerful tools grant anyone the ability to virtually scrutinize parts of your home and surroundings without ever needing to be physically present. The convenience they offers is a double-edged sword; although they provide easy access to geographical information and can help people find locations more efficiently, they also open up the possibility for malicious use.
In the past, someone with ill intentions would have had to put in the effort to walk or drive by your home to gather information about where you live. This required a certain level of risk and exposure. However, with Google and Apple Maps, these individuals can conduct their surveillance discreetly from their couch, reducing their risk of being noticed. All they need is a phone or computer, and they can gain a detailed view of your property, including potential entry points, layout, and even the type of security measures you might have in place.
The implications for privacy and security are profound. As technology advances, it becomes increasingly important to balance the benefits of such tools with the potential risks they introduce. While Google and Apple Maps have undoubtedly revolutionized how we navigate and explore our world, it is crucial to be aware of their potential misuse and take steps to protect personal privacy. For instance, being mindful of what is visible from the street and considering privacy options offered by Google and Apple, such as blurring out your home on Street View, can help mitigate some of these risks.
GOOGLE MAPS:
Here is a step-by-step guide for a parent/caregiver on how to blur your home on Google Maps:
Step #1 – Use Your Computer: The blurring feature isn’t available on the Google Maps app for iOS or Android. It can be accessed via a web browser on your mobile device, but it’s quite difficult to use. Your best option is a reliable web browser on your Mac or PC.
Step #2 – Access Google Maps: Go to maps.google.com. Enter your home address in the search bar at the top-right and hit return. Then click the photo of your home that appears.
Step #3 – Select the Photo: Click on the photo of your home located above your address on the top-left part of the page.
Step #4 – Street View: You’ll see the Street View of your location. Look for and click “Report a Problem” at the bottom-right of the screen. The text is very small, but it’s there.
Step #5 – Adjust the Image: Use your mouse to adjust the view of the image so that your home and anything else you want to blur is within the red and black box. Move around with your cursor and use the plus and minus buttons to zoom in and out.
Step #6 – Blur Options: Once you’ve adjusted the image, choose what you want to blur from the options provided (we recommend home):
- A faceMy home
- Your car/license plate
- A different object
You may need to provide more details about what exactly you want blurred, especially if the image contains multiple cars, people, or other objects. Be certain about what you want blurred because once Google blurs something on Street View, it’s permanent.
Step #7 – Submit the Request: Enter your email (required), verify the captcha (if needed), and click Submit.
You’ll receive an email from Google stating that they’ll review your report and get back to you once the request is approved or denied. You might receive additional emails from Google asking for more information about your request. Google doesn’t specify how long the process will take, so keep an eye on your inbox for further emails.
APPLE MAPS:
Apple doesn’t have a dedicated interface for blurring houses like Google Maps, but they do take privacy requests seriously. Blurring your house on Apple Maps is straightforward – simply email Apple and request that your house, license plate, face, or other personal details be blurred in the Look Around feature, which is their version of Street View to this email – mapsimagecollection@apple.com You will be required to provide them with your full address and additional property description.
The White Hatter
References:
1/ https://www.lifewire.com/how-criminals-use-google-maps-street-view-2487485
