Google Earth

Google Earth- is it a useful source, or an invasion of privacy? There are many examples of both. Google Earth can be helpful in search and rescue, illegal dumping, and building regulations. One example that goes both ways happened on Long Island, NY. As Google Earth became more accurate, the city building inspector could see all of the swimming pools. Because of Google earth, the inspector found 250 non-permitted pools and could fine all of these people. The pool example goes both ways because to many people, the fact that the government can see into your backyard is an invasion of privacy. Also, they city says that because they can now see these pools, they have the ability to see if they are safe for the children. Because one cannot choose weather or not Google sees your backyard, some people are concerned about their privacy. A big part to this is if Google Earth continues to work the way they do that this will be the end of privacy for all. Some suggestions of ABC to Google Earth are very simple. Give people the option if they want there backyard shown, and if they want there house shown on the "Street View."