On October 5th, 2023, Google made an official statement about shutting down the Dark Web monitoring tool on February 16, 2026. Originally, this capacity was available only to Google One subscribers. In July 2024, it was opened up to every Google account user. As part of its retirement plan, Google will no longer scan for new dark web breaches after January 15, 2026. After the feature is retired, the company plans to delete all associated data.
With our Dark Web report, we allowed consumers to keep tabs on possible breaches that included their personal—often sensitive—information. Google admitted that the tool was limited in its effectiveness. In a support document, the company stated, “While the report offered general information, feedback showed that it didn’t provide helpful next steps.” This recognition is an important first step that speaks to the company’s apparent desire to deliver effective prevention tools that keep users safe.
User Access and Data Management
After the July 2024 expansion, every Google account holder was able to use the Dark Web report tool. Users were able to see scanned copies of their data and be alerted in the event of a breach. Despite its good intentions to improve user security, the limitations of the tool led to its planned discontinuation.
Google pointed to the fact that users have a month to delete their monitoring profiles, prior to the official shutdown. To do this, users need to navigate to the Dark Web report at https://myactivity.google.com/dark-web-report. To start, in the section “Results with your info,” select “Edit monitoring profile.” Then, look toward the bottom of the page and click on “Delete monitoring profile.”
This proactive approach provides users flexibility to control their data usage going forward before the feature goes out of use.
Future Implications and User Guidance
Google has been reminding people to be proactive and aware of their online security. This follows their abandonment of the Dark Web monitoring tool. The company just announced that they’re dropping this particular feature. It continues to provide original, unique content—including on platforms such as Google News, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
The announcement to kill the Dark Web report speaks to Google’s willingness to listen to users and create better tools and resources. The developer’s mission is to make their innovative tools work for the people who use them. Lastly, it aims to provide you with practical insights rather than simply informing you.