In today’s digital age, privacy is critical—especially with the rise of scams exploiting publicly available information. A recent scam involves fraudsters sending threatening messages claiming they “know where you live,” demanding $2,000 in exchange for leaving you and your family alone. These criminals use Google Maps and Street View to make their threats feel real, leveraging visible images of your home to intimidate victims.

Scammers are exploiting Google Maps and other public information sources to gather details about homes, such as their appearance, surroundings, and even potential vulnerabilities. They then contact victims with threatening messages demanding payment to avoid supposed harm.

While these scams are designed to scare and manipulate, they underscore the importance of limiting the personal information about your home that is publicly visible online. Taking proactive steps—like blurring your home on Street View—can deter criminals from using your home as a target.

Fortunately, Google allows you to blur your house on Street View, which can be an effective way to protect your privacy and prevent being targeted by scams like this. Here’s how to do it and why it’s more important than ever.

How to Blur Your House on Google Street View

1. Visit Google Maps
   Navigate to Google Maps and enter your home address in the search bar.
2. Access Street View
   Drag the yellow Pegman icon (found in the bottom-right corner) to your address to access Street View.
3. Locate Your House
   Use the navigation tools to find a clear view of your house.
4. Report a Problem
   In the bottom-right corner of the screen, click the “Report a problem” link.
5. Request Blurring
   You’ll be taken to a form where you can adjust the red box to highlight the area you want blurred. Select “My home” as the object to blur and explain your request in the provided field.
6. Submit the Request
   Once you’re satisfied, submit the form. Google will review your request, and if approved, the image of your house will be permanently blurred.

Important Considerations

• Permanent Action: Once Google blurs your house, it cannot be undone. Make sure this is the right choice for you.
• Double-Check: After the blurring process is complete, revisit Street View to ensure your house is obscured to your satisfaction.

Additional Privacy Tips

Blurring your house on Google Street View is a great first step, but here are a few more ways to safeguard your home from potential scams:

• Avoid Displaying Personal Details: Ensure visible house numbers or identifiable features aren’t posted online in public forums or social media.
• Monitor Public Data: Search for your address online periodically to see what information is publicly accessible, and request websites to remove it.
• Monitor Your Online Presence: Regularly check what information about you and your home is available online and take action to remove anything concerning.

By taking these steps, you can enhance your home’s privacy and reduce the risk of scams or other security concerns.