As break-ins grow more sophisticated, homeowners are turning to a digital tool to stay one step ahead of criminals: Google Maps’ Street View blur feature. Law enforcement and security experts are now encouraging property owners to blur their homes to prevent criminals from scoping out properties online.
Street View, which provides panoramic photos of neighborhoods and buildings, is a useful navigation and real estate tool. But it also gives potential burglars a way to examine homes from afar. Details like unlocked gates, low fences, visible valuables, or even the presence of security systems can all be assessed without setting foot on the property.
Ryan Railsback, a police officer in Riverside, California, told ABC News, “The crooks are looking for new and innovative ways to victimize people.” He noted that hiding your home from Street View is a smart, proactive step. Criminal justice professor Christopher Herrmann echoed that concern, adding that thieves often use freely available online images to plan burglaries.
Google allows homeowners to permanently blur their residences using its “Report a Problem” feature in Street View. Once submitted, the blur request cannot be reversed. The process is simple:
- Go to Google Maps and locate your home.
- Enter Street View by dragging the orange person icon onto your street.
- Click the three-dot menu near your address and select “Report a Problem.”
- Fill out the form and request to blur your home.
This digital privacy step is gaining popularity as homeowners seek layered security strategies. While security systems and cameras are essential, concealing your property’s layout and entry points from public view adds another layer of defense against modern-day criminals.
