Google Maps steps up efforts to limit abuse during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
Ukraine is entering its fifth day fending offthe invasion of Russian aircraft, artillery, and troops. War turns many priorities upside down: businesses are shuttered and shelters with bread lines take their place. In response to those rapid changes, Google Maps has made a few of its own in the country.
Reutershas confirmed from the company that users around the world will no longer be able to see live information on traffic conditions andbusiness capacityin Ukraine after it consulted local authorities and other sources. The decision was made after scholars notedcertain areas of road congestionnear Ukraine’s borders that corresponded with Russian troop movements. Live traffic information in Ukraine will remain available to local users in navigation mode.
Traffic sensors are everyday parts of city living in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Lviv. As they become theaters of battle, there are risks to keeping that information — especially if it details civilian movement fleeing the area — in public view.
Google is takingother measuresto limit the spread of disinformation and encouraging users to secure their accounts during the war.
A number of U.S. wireless carriers are currentlynot charging for international calls to Ukraine.
UPDATE: 2022/03/03 17:20 EST BY STEVE HUFF
Maps restricts more data
Based on allegations that the Russian military might be planning attacks with user-submitted Google Maps data to guide operations in Ukraine,Google announcedit is removing contributions from users in Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus.
This includes photos, videos, reviews, and business information. The company removed user tags, pins, and places as well. Google will also temporarily block new changes from users in those countries.
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