Anyone can type their address into Google Maps, switch to Street View, and see a high-resolution photo of their front door, windows, and property line. While this tool is convenient for navigation, it also exposes your home's exterior to anyone online. If you prefer to keep those details private, Google provides a straightforward, free way to request permanent blurring. Here is how to get it done.
Use a desktop browser for the request
You are best off using a desktop browser for this, as the blurring feature does not work as well on mobile. Go to maps.google.com and search your home address. When your location appears, click the photo of your home displayed above your address. This opens Street View.
Report a problem and select the area to blur
Once in Street View, look at the bottom-right corner for Report a Problem and click it. You will see a red and black box overlaid on the image. Use your mouse to position this box so your home and anything else you want blurred is completely contained within it. The plus button zooms in, the minus button zooms out. Adjust until you have framed exactly what you want hidden.
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Choose the type of blur and submit the request
Below the image, choose what you are requesting to blur: a face, your home, car/license plate, or a different object. Select Your home. Google will ask for additional details, so be specific and thorough so they understand exactly what needs blurring. Provide your email address, complete the captcha if prompted, and click Submit. Google will email you confirming they received the request. They may ask follow-up questions via email. There is no official timeline for approval, but most requests process within weeks. Once approved, the blur is permanent.
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Important: the blur is irreversible
Google cautions that once something is blurred, it stays blurred permanently. You cannot undo it. Make absolutely sure you have selected exactly what you want hidden before submitting. If your request is denied, you cannot resubmit the same image immediately. If approved, your home disappears from Street View everywhere, including past and future images. For more on digital privacy, read our article on NASA launches Roman Telescope and OpenAI creates autonomous hacker and Qualcomm hikes Snapdragon chip prices. For official information, refer to Google's Street View privacy help page.
Source: https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/how-to-stop-google-maps-from-displaying-your-home-to-strangers
