When it comes to keeping our homes safe, most of us are pretty thorough. We invest in sturdy locks, install security cameras, and maybe even get a dog with a bark that could wake the neighbours.
But there’s one simple, digital step that many Australians are overlooking—and it could make all the difference in protecting your property.
We’re talking about blurring your house on Google Maps’ Street View. Yes, you read that right! It might sound a bit high-tech or even unnecessary, but experts are warning that this easy online move could help keep your home off the radar of would-be burglars.
Why blur your home on Google Maps?
Let’s face it: criminals are getting smarter. Gone are the days when a burglar would simply wander down the street looking for an open window.
These days, many are turning to technology, using tools like Google Street View to scope out potential targets from the comfort of their own homes.
Ryan Railsback, a police officer from Riverside, California, has seen firsthand how crooks use online images to plan their break-ins.
‘The crooks are looking for new and innovative ways to victimise people,’ he told ABC News. ‘It’s good for the public to be aware of that and counter what the criminals are already doing.’
By blurring your home on Google Maps, you make it much harder for anyone to virtually case your property.
Burglars can’t easily check out your entryways, spot your security cameras, or see if you’ve got a shiny new car in the driveway. It’s a simple step that could make your home a less appealing target.
How do you blur your house on Google Maps?
The good news is, it’s surprisingly easy to do—and you don’t need to be a tech whiz. Here’s how:
1. Find your home on Google Maps.
Open Google Maps on your computer or smartphone and search for your address.
2. Enter Street View.
Drag the little yellow person (Pegman) onto your street to see your house as it appears on Street View.
3. Report a problem.
In the bottom right corner of the Street View image, click on ‘Report a problem.’
4. Request the blur.
Fill out the form, making sure to clearly mark your house and explain that you want it blurred for privacy reasons.
5. Submit and wait.
Google will review your request. If you provide your email, they’ll keep you updated on the status.
A word of warning: once your house is blurred, it’s permanent. Only the homeowner or tenant can request this, and you can’t reverse it later if you change your mind.
Does blurring your house really work?
Security experts say yes—it can be a valuable part of your home protection toolkit.
Christopher Herrmann, a professor of law and police science in New York, points out that ‘would-be thieves certainly want to scout their locations before they hit them’.
If your home is blurred, it’s much harder for them to get the lay of the land.
But, as with all things, there’s a flip side. Some argue that if yours is the only house on the street that’s blurred, it might actually draw attention.
Burglars could wonder what you’re hiding. However, a quick look at some of the world’s most expensive streets—from London’s Knightsbridge to Sydney’s Point Piper—shows that plenty of savvy homeowners are already taking this step.
Other ways to keep your home safe
Blurring your house on Google Maps is just one piece of the puzzle. Here are a few more tips to help keep your castle secure:
Upgrade your locks. Deadbolts and smart locks are a great investment.
Install security cameras. Visible cameras can deter would-be thieves.
Use outdoor lighting. Motion-activated lights make it harder for anyone to sneak around.
Get to know your neighbours. A watchful neighbour is worth their weight in gold.
Don’t advertise your holidays. Be careful about posting travel plans on social media.
Is it worth it?
Ultimately, the decision to blur your home is a personal one. For some, it’s a no-brainer—a quick, free way to add a layer of privacy and security.
For others, it might feel unnecessary or even a bit paranoid. But as technology continues to evolve, so do the tactics of those who’d rather help themselves to your hard-earned possessions.
Have you blurred your house on Google Maps? Would you consider it? Or do you think it’s a step too far? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences—share your stories in the comments below!
Also read: The untold story of Google Maps’ Australian roots
If your home has been on the market in the last 20 years or so anyone can have a good look at your home both inside and outside on many real estate sites, which is far worse than google maps
Real-estate.com, Domain and many other real estate sites have not only photos but floor plans of your house. We asked the companies to remove the images. They said the images actually belong to the agent that last listed the property. If they are still operating, they have to give permission. If the agency isn’t operational you can approve it. Realestate.com can remove all images but leave an image of the front of the house. Floorplan etc…is deleted if you ask. Domain are less flexible. They delete the entire listing. They cannot delete some images and not others or leave just one image as a landing page image.
I’ve just searched my address, and due to it being a block of units, you only see the front of the block (taken last December), and you can’t see down the driveway to the individual units.
I’ve just looked at my current and previous homes on google maps. The images displayed for both (same suburb) are more than 5 years old.