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Why Is This Brooklyn Brownstone Blurred Out On Google Maps?
By
Jen Carlson
Published Feb 22, 2013
Modified Feb 22, 2013
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By
Jen Carlson
Published Feb 22, 2013
Modified Feb 22, 2013
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There are a lot of theories floating around on Reddit about why this building at 291 Clermont Avenue in Brooklyn is blurred out on Google maps—from there being naked people in the windows of the home, to the cover-up of a Sasquatch sighting. We asked Google what was up with the digital curtain, and a spokesperson told us:
"We automatically blur faces and license plates that appear in Street View, and also provide an easy-to-use reporting tools so that people can ask for images of their house, car or themselves to be further obscured. They can simply click on 'Report a problem' on the bottom left-hand side of the Street View image to submit a request that our team will review and take action upon as needed. In this case, we likely received a request from the person living here to blur their home."
But will this move just set off the Streisand Effect?
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streisand effect
Jen Carlson
Jen Carlson is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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