RIVERSIDE, Calif. — In light of the increasing incidents of burglaries, break-ins, and home invasions in Southern California, experts suggest an additional strategy that homeowners can use to safeguard their properties. Some individuals have started “blurring” their residences in the street-view feature on Google Maps.
Officer Ryan Railsback of the Riverside Police Department expressed support for the idea. “This is the first time I’ve heard of this, and I believe it’s an excellent strategy,” Railsback said. “As criminals continue to find innovative methods to carry out their activities, we need to stay ahead in protecting our communities.”
“This approach can be an effective way for residents to secure their homes,” he added.
How to Use Google Maps’ “Blurring” Feature
Utilizing this feature is straightforward. Homeowners can locate their property on Google Maps, then click on the “report a problem” option found in the upper left corner. After answering a series of questions, users can submit their request for Google to blur out their home. It’s important to note that once the image is blurred and published, the blurring is permanent, according to Google representatives.
Security expert Bruce Thomas also praised the concept, noting, “It’s a smart way to make your home less identifiable, making it more challenging for potential intruders to see what’s inside or even recognize the layout of your house.”
Thomas advised that homeowners should also use additional security measures, such as visible signage indicating the presence of surveillance cameras, security systems, or even a guard dog. “High-end criminal gangs targeting upscale homes might use various online tools to gather information about their targets, much like how law enforcement uses technology for investigations,” he added.
