Today's technology makes us more comfortable and allows us to perform many of our tasks more efficiently. At the same time, this technology exposes many aspects of our lives that we prefer to keep private. Applications such as Google Maps do not escape this reality. The good thing is that Google Maps has a trick to protect you and your home.
The hidden risk in Google Maps
Google Maps is an application used by millions of users around the world. Among its many functions, it has one that represents a risk to the privacy and security of our homes: Street View. This feature provides street-level panoramic images of almost any location in the world. It's a useful feature for exploring destinations before you visit them or for locating specific addresses.
The function also provides a tool for examine private property in detail, including yours. Unfortunately, criminals have figured out how to leverage this Street View tool to plan robberies and other illegal acts.
Since they have access to detailed images of the houses, they can study the entrances, exits, security systems visible and other aspects that help them plan their criminal activities with greater precision and less risk.
The solution to this is Hide your house on Google Maps. This is a process that involves blurring your house on Street View. This process, although little known, is free and accessible to all users. We explain how to do it.
How to protect your home on Google Maps
While in the Google Maps app on your Android or iOS phone, locate your address in Street View mode.
When you are inside Street View, look for the option Report a problem. This feature is usually found by clicking on the three dots in the top right corner.
Complete the form that appears in this section. It will ask you to provide your email and select the option to blur your house. You will then need to briefly describe the reason for your request. Finally, proceed to submit the form.
After reviewing your request, Google will proceed to blur the image of your home within a few days. Once this process is complete, Your property details will be hidden both on Google Maps and Street View.
This feature has been around for a while but not everyone knows about it or takes advantage of it.
Beyond Google Maps
Protecting your home on Google Maps is just the beginning. Consider other security measures in both the digital and physical world:
- Review your online presence, what information about your address is available on the Internet and take steps to limit it.
- Invest in alarm systems, security cameras or lighting with motion sensors.
- Make all members of your household aware of the importance of online privacy and basic safety precautions.
- Pay attention to suspicious activities in your neighborhood and do not hesitate to report them to the authorities.
