You might not realize it, but your home is probably visible to anyone online with just a quick search. Google Maps and its Street View feature let users virtually explore streets all over the world, including a clear look at your front yard, driveway, and even your car. While it’s helpful for directions and trip planning, it can also raise serious concerns about privacy and safety.
That kind of visibility can be misused by people with bad intentions. It’s the reason many celebrities choose to blur their homes on Google Maps, preventing stalkers or burglars from getting a close look. The good news is that you don’t need to be famous to do the same. With just a few clicks, you can request Google to blur your house and take it off the digital map for good. Here’s how to do it.
If your house is visible on Street View, you might want to consider taking this extra to blur it from public view. Here’s how.
For more, check out essential Google Maps tips for travel.
Click on the photo of your home, right above your address, on the top-left part of the page.
Next, you’ll see the Street View of your location. Click Report a Problem at the bottom-right. The text is super tiny, but it’s there.
If you want to blur more than what’s in the red and black box, use the + button to zoom in.
Once you’re finished adjusting the image, choose what you’re requesting to blur underneath:
- A face
- Your home
- Car/license plate
- A different object
You’ll be asked to give a bit more detail as to what exactly you want blurred, in case the image is busy with several cars, people and other objects.
Also, be completely sure that what you select is exactly what you want blurred. Google cautions that once you blur something on Street View, it’s blurred permanently.
Finally, enter your email (this is required), verify the captcha (if needed), and click Submit.
