Homeowners issued Google Street View warning until early November

Homeowners have been urged to secure their properties to reduce the threat of being targeted by thieves using Google Street View

Homeowners across Northern Ireland are being advised to protect their homes until at least early November in a new alert. Any valuable items might be better not being shown on display in case any thieves plot to raid any homes, an expert has advised.

This warning was issued just as Google cars drive across the UK, including Northern Ireland, recording content to update its Street View maps. Over the next two-and-a-half months – between now and November – streets in Belfast, Newry, Omagh, Moygashel and Muckamore will be recorded by the tech giant’s cars.

However, security specialists are advising people in Northern Ireland to prepare their properties now to prevent criminals from using Google Street View to identify their next target. One of the most effective measures is to hide certain possessions from view, especially anything valuable that could be easily spotted if a potential thief zooms in sufficiently.

Shahzad Ali, the CEO of security training company Get Licensed, said time is of the essence for people to protect their homes. He argued: “There has been a lot of discuss on lately about whether or not you should request your home be blurred on Google Street View, with arguments both covering the benefits and risks of the request.

“On one side, blurring your home can reduce the risk of burglars using the platform to determine which properties to target, with 360-degree views often allowing them to assess entry ways and blind spots on the property. Having an unblurred house can also alert thieves to the contents of your home and garden.

“If expensive items are visible in your house, you are more likely to become a victim of a robbery. However, it can also be argued that if you’ve requested your home to be blurred, it could be assumed that the property is vulnerable to break-ins or holds items of value that the homeowners don’t want to be seen by web users.”

Shahzad continued, explaining that you can also find out when Google Street View will be visiting your area to update its images. Knowing when they might be in your neighbourhood allows you to prepare your property for this visit – click here to find out where Google will visit next.

He advised: “Remove any valuables from the view of the street, and make sure you feel comfortable with everything on show. This way, you have some control over how your home appears on Google Maps, rather than drawing attention to it via blurring.

“Ultimately, homeowners should be more concerned about their home’s security and whether or not it’s a beacon for burglars. Both clear and subtle deterrent measures can be put in place to protect your home from break-ins. Features that Google Maps may or may not flag, but will help draw attention to any uninvited ‘guests’.”

With that in mind, here are four steps you can take to deter burglars from your property.

Install security cameras and alarm systems

One of the most effective ways to stop burglars is with security cameras and home alarm systems, according to Shahzad. “These were described as ‘psychological barriers’, as they cause the criminal to have to put in extra effort, or suggest a chance they could get caught,” he continued.

Add subtle deterrents

Making minor changes to your home can make all the difference, according to the security expert. “Windows and doors, if not properly secured, can act as beacons for burglars, while subtle elements like a ‘beware of the dog’ sign can deter them,” Shahzad added. “Even seemingly minor details, such as maintaining well-lit exteriors, installing motion-activated lights, and having noisy gravel paths, can dissuade burglars from targeting homes.”

Be careful when posting on social media

Burglaries are more common during periods when people are away from their homes, such as school holidays, so keeping your homes safe during such periods is vital, reports Devon Live. Shahzad cautioned: “Be cautious about sharing travel plans or showcasing valuables on social media, as burglars may exploit such information. Wait until returning from a trip to post holiday photos to avoid signalling an empty home.”

Give the impression that someone’s home

Creating the illusion of an occupied home is another effective strategy. “Utilising timers for lights, TVs, or radios can simulate activity,” he said. “And having a trusted neighbour collect mail and maintain the yard during your absence enhances the perception of someone being home.”

What is Google Street View?

Google Street View is a feature in Google Maps and Google Earth that provides 360-degree panoramic views from specific roads worldwide. It allows users to explore and navigate streets, landmarks, and other sites as if they were physically there.

The images are collected by Google and its contributors and combined to create interactive, navigable panoramas. The tech company said on its website: “We drive and trek around the world to bring you imagery that enhances your experience and helps you discover the world around you. If you want to wave at our team, check out below when they’ll be coming to a location near you.”