A German court ruled that Google's aerial imagery on Google Earth and Google Maps violates privacy laws by showing private properties without consent. The Frankfurt Regional Court described the practice as 'spying,' especially for areas not visible from public streets. The case was brought by a Frankfurt homeowner who previously forced Google Street View and Apple Look Around to blur his family's home.
The court stated that no one must accept the worldwide publication of aerial images of their property without consent, particularly for hidden areas. Judges noted that such imagery could be used by burglars. Google plans to appeal, arguing that its services benefit urban planning, environmental research, and disaster relief.
The court also mandated that Google provide advance notice to property owners before photographing areas.
Source: Hacker News · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing