Blurred locations on Google Maps Street View are applied for privacy and security reasons. Google masks locations in response to requests from government entities, privacy advocates, and customers. Common blurred sites include military and secure government facilities, homes of celebrities and high-net-worth individuals, and properties of privacy-conscious residents. In countries like the Netherlands and Germany, residents have a legal right to request blurring of their homes. Street View reveals property layout, value, and security details that could be used by police, criminals, journalists, or investigators. Google automatically blurs faces and license plates, but users can request additional blurring of their property by dragging the Pegman in Street View, reporting a problem, and completing verification steps.
Once a location is blurred, Google does not offer a way to reverse it. This permanence means property owners should consider the impact on neighbors and future buyers. Some experts argue that a blurred property may attract burglars who assume something valuable lies within.
Blurring on Google Maps does not affect other mapping services. Apple Maps requires an email request to Maps Image Collection@apple.com. Other platforms like Baidu Maps, Mapillary, and Karta View may offer similar blurring options on request. Microsoft has removed its Streetside imagery from Bing Maps during its Azure transition.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing