Online maps like Google Maps and Apple Maps are one of the most valuable tools the internet has given us in a long time (my opinion).

And I know I'm not alone when I say how much I love Street View mode.

I've taken trips back in time and have had virtual vacations in Street View.

Yeah, I virtually drove from Yakima, Washington, to Roswell, New Mexico, one afternoon (that was a lot of mouse-clicking).

People have made viral online careers out of it! Like the guy who decides of places are "S****y" or not. Check out what he had to say about Yakima, Washington here.

Welcome To Washington sign, with a giant digital map marker and a poo emoji.
Google Maps/Canva
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But what if you're extra cautious about privacy?

Maybe you don't want anyone in the world to see your house's appearance or an outside view of the layout.

Maybe you're concerned about break-ins or possible stalkers. Can you blur out your house?

After all, Google blurs out license plates, faces, and some government buildings that we're not supposed to know about (looking at you, Area 51), so why not your house?

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You can, and it is pretty straightforward.

A big thanks to the Kim Komando show for clueing me into this nifty trick to help safeguard your privacy a little more.


Giphy.com

With Google, just look up your address on Google Maps, tap the area you want to be blurred (home), and on the bottom right, you'll see a link that says "REPORT A PROBLEM." Click on that, fill out the form, submit, and boom!

If you want it blurred in Apple Maps, it is as simple as sending an email to MapsImageCollection@apple.com.

Tell them how you'd wish for your home to be blurred, give them the address, and give them some more details about your property.


Giphy.com

Do you mind having your house viewable or do you plan to blur it out? Tap the App and let us know what you think and why.

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