Lithuania Taxman Uses Google Maps to Find Dodgers

Lithuanian tax authorities say they have uncovered more than 100 possible tax dodgers using Google Maps Street View, which was recently launched in the Baltic state.

Tax spokesman Darius Buta says the free Internet program has helped the agency identify at least 100 homeowners and 30 construction companies suspected of having evaded taxes on undeclared property sales and housing construction.

He says the program saves resources and time by allowing inspectors to see secretly built buildings before they make a visit to the property.

The department says legal advisers assured them it was not in violation of privacy laws.