Prolonged absence, departure on vacation or simple need for security, here is how Google protects you from any burglary attempt in a few clicks. And it’s completely free.
Google’s Street View tool allows you to explore streets around the world from your computer or smartphone. A useful service for preparing a trip or discovering a neighborhood before buying a house. But what few people know is that burglars can also use them to locate the places before taking action. According to ADT security experts, some criminals use Google Street View to examine the configuration of homes and identify the most vulnerable access. Michele Bennett, Managing Director ofADT UK & I Subscriberexplain : “Potential thieves are known to use social networks to determine when the owners are absent, as well as to know the disposition of the victims’ houses and gardens.” By consulting these images, they can thus identify crucial indices: poorly protected doors or windows, valuables visible from the outside, or even shadow areas conducive to a discreet intrusion.
Street view images are updated periodically, but they can remain accessible online for several years. Unlike faces and registration plates which are automatically blurred by Google, the houses remain clearly visible, unless you apply for express. Security experts therefore recommend that owners request the vagueness of their home. Michele Bennett insists: “It is strongly recommended to contact Google and request that your house be blurred to protect your privacy and that of your family.”
To do this, here is the procedure to follow: Open Google Maps on your computer or smartphone, search for your address and open the image in Street View mode, click on a problem “, located at the bottom right of the screen, fill out the form by asking Google to blur your home, submit your request and wait for Google validation.
Google claims to examine requests as soon as possible and can contact you by e-mail if additional information is necessary. Once the blurred is made, it is permanent and cannot be canceled. A good way to protect yourself, limit risks, and go on vacation with a peaceful mind.
