Google to End Dark Web Monitoring Tool in 2026

Google announced on Thursday that it will discontinue its free dark web monitoring tool next year, citing user feedback that the service lacked guidance on protective measures following alerts. The tool, which scans hidden parts of the internet for leaked personal information, will cease new scans on January 15, 2026, with access to existing reports ending on February 16, 2026.

Launched in March 2023 as an exclusive feature for Google One subscribers, the dark web report expanded to all Google account users in late July 2024. Once activated, it notified individuals when their name, email address, or phone number appeared on the dark web, often stemming from data breaches. Users received detailed reports listing matches tied to their accounts, including the specific breaches responsible, such as dates of birth or addresses that had surfaced in underground forums. The service provided visibility into potential exposures but offered no instructions on remediation, such as changing passwords or securing accounts.

In an email to users and updates on its support page, Google explained the decision. "While the report offered general information, feedback showed that it didn't provide...