California targets internet maps, seeks blurry buildings

California lawmakers are considering legislation that would require online mapping services from companies including Google, Microsoft, and AOL to blur details of public buildings like schools, churches, hospitals, and government buildings.

The goal is to prevent terrorists from being able to obtain detailed images of buildings and surrounding areas by using Google Earth. But it's not like a terrorist or an amateur photographer couldn't just stand in front of these public buildings and snap their own photos, or use pictures already posed on internet photo sharing services like Flickr and Picasa.

Some companies have already taken steps to blur or remove sensitive information including detailed photos of military bases or pictures of shelters for abused women.

It's not clear if and when the California bill will come up for debate in the state Assembly. Just because a lawmaker introduces a bill doesn't necessarily mean it's going anywhere anytime soon.

Tags: california, legislation, maps