Gianaris Calls On Google Earth To Blur Images Of Potential Terror Targets

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Gianaris Calls On Google Earth To Blur Images Of Potential Terror Targets
06/10/2007 01:03 PM
By: NY1 News

At a Sunday morning press conference, state lawmaker Michael Gianaris called on Google Earth to blur views of potential terrorist targets.

The Queens assemblyman says federal authorities need to work with Google to blur maps that detail sensitive areas like airports, chemical storage plants and military bases.

The call comes after reports the terrorists who were plotting to blow up a pipeline feeding JFK airport, used the site to plan their attack. New Yorkers have mixed feelings about Gianaris' concerns.

"I think that's ridiculous,” said one New Yorker. “Because they can get the maps, and if they blur them, they'll see what's blurred, and they'll know which is the targets.”

“The information's already out there. You can't censor it,” added another. “The horse is out of the barn.”

“I think the responsibility for keeping that stuff off Google should rest with the people that manage the individual facilities in question,” said a third.

“You don't want to limit too much, but I can see certain secure sites,” added a fourth. “I mean if you're dealing with the airport infrastructure, that's a different ballgame from just a general map."

Gianaris says he's written three letters to Google Earth's CEO and has received one response, saying the website has enough security measures in place.

In a statement Google says, "...anyone who flies above or drives by a piece of property can obtain similar information. Google takes security concerns very seriously, and is always willing to discuss them with public agencies and officials.”