Blur Your Home on Google’s Street View for Enhanced Privacy- Here's How

Google Maps have not only revolutionized the way we see the world, but they have also made it easier to navigate from point A to point B. However, this also means some of our most private places are now out there for anyone to see. It’s crazy to imagine that Google has 10 million miles of imagery from across the globe partly because of Google's Street View cars and volunteer contributors.

Using the Street View options, users are now able to have a detailed look at your street, house, car, and even the exterior view of the bar down the street. However, since this information is readily available to anyone who cares to look, it can pose real dangers. Stalkers, criminals, scammers, and every other bad actor can have an uninterrupted view of your home.

It's like giving out backstage passes for a peek into your home sweet home, without needing to lift a finger. Sure, someone could stroll by for a look, but Google Maps makes it a breeze - anyone with a gadget can play detective.

To address these concerns, Google offers a solution: the ability to blur out specific details, such as your home, on Street View. By obscuring certain elements, users can protect their privacy while benefiting from Street View's convenience.

Here's how you can take advantage of this feature:

1. Begin by accessing Google Maps through your preferred web browser on your computer. Keep in mind this is only available on a computer and not on iOS or Android Google Maps application. You can still use it on your phone’s browser but keep in mind it may be harder to blur images here.
2. Enter your home address in the search bar on maps.google.com and hit enter to locate your property.
3. Once your home appears on the map, click on the photo displayed at the top-left corner, directly above your address.

         4. This action will bring up the Street View of your location, allowing you to see how your property appears to others.
         5. Look for the "Report a Problem" option, typically found at the bottom-right corner of the screen, and click on it.

   6. You'll then be prompted to adjust the view to encompass the areas you wish to blur, such as your home or identifiable features.

             7. Using your mouse, navigate the Street View image and position the red and black boxes to cover the desired areas.
             8. Specify what you want to blur, whether it's your home, faces, license plates, or other identifiable objects.
             9. Provide any additional details or context to assist Google in processing your request accurately.
            10. Enter your email address and complete any necessary captcha verification before submitting your request.

Once submitted, Google will review your request and notify you via email of the outcome. It's important to note that once blurred, the changes are permanent, so ensure accuracy before finalizing your request. While the processing time may vary, rest assured that Google takes privacy seriously and strives to address user concerns promptly.