Google is set to discontinue its "dark web report" feature on February 16, 2026, just over a year and a half after its initial launch. The tool, which was designed to help users monitor their personal information for potential data breaches on the dark web, is being phased out.
While the dark web report was initially seen as a valuable tool by some, scanning various data breach dumps for compromised personal details like email addresses, names, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers, Google cited user feedback as the primary reason for its shutdown. According to its support page, the feature "didn't provide helpful next steps" for users concerned about identity risks. This sentiment was widely echoed in online discussions, with many users expressing frustration over the lack of actionable advice beyond simply suggesting a password change, without clear guidance on affected accounts.
"We're making this change to instead focus on tools that give you more clear, actionable steps to protect your information online," the tech giant stated. "We'll continue to track and defend you from online threats, including the dark web, and build tools that help protect you and your personal information."
In light of the feature's discontinuation, Google highlighted several existing tools designed to enhance user security. These include the "Security Checkup," which assesses Google account security; a built-in "Password Manager" for creating strong, unique passwords; and "Password Checkup," which alerts users if their saved passwords have been compromised, among other features.
The planned shutdown was first reported by 9to5Google, with users receiving email notifications. For those currently utilizing the dark web report, it's crucial to note that scanning for new dark web breaches will cease on January 16, 2026. The feature will be officially retired, and all associated data will be permanently deleted from Google's servers on February 16, 2026.
Users wishing to proactively manage their data before the deadline can delete their monitoring profiles by navigating to "Results with your info," then selecting "Edit monitoring profile," and choosing "Delete monitoring profile" at the bottom of the page.
