Google has temporarily disabled some Google Maps tools in Ukraine which provide live traffic data and how busy different places are in a bid to protect Ukrainians from the Russian military.

The company has globally disabled the Google Maps traffic layer and live information on how busy places like shops and restaurants are in Ukraine for the safety of local communities in the country amid fears Moscow could target the crowded areas. 

Google's announcement came just days after the Ukrainian government ordered road signs to be removed across the country in order to confuse invading Russian forces and make it harder for them to find their way around.    

Ukraine is facing attacks from Russian forces who invaded the country on Thursday. As missiles fell on Ukrainian cities, nearly 400,000 civilians, mainly women and children, have fled into neighbouring countries.        

Big tech companies including Google have said they are taking new measures to protect users' security in the region.

The live traffic data function on Google Maps works by incorporating location and speed information from smartphones and using it to show live how busy traffic conditions are or how busy areas are. 

Google said live traffic information remained available to drivers using its turn-by-turn navigation features in the area. 

Online services and social media sites have also been tapped by researchers piecing together activity around the war.