Google has announced it will retire its “Dark Web Report” feature starting February 16, 2026. Launched about a year and a half ago, the tool was designed to help users track whether their personal information—like email addresses, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers—had appeared in dark web data breaches. While initially seen as a helpful safeguard, the feature is now being phased out.
The decision comes after feedback from users suggested the tool didn’t offer meaningful guidance when breaches were detected. Many users reported that, while the report could alert them to compromised information, it often left them unsure about what actions to take next. Reddit discussions mirrored this frustration, with some describing the alerts as “vague” and unhelpful for protecting sensitive accounts.
In a statement, Google explained, “We’re making this change to instead focus on tools that give you more clear, actionable steps to protect your information online. 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.” The company aims to provide more actionable security solutions for its users.
To fill the gap left by the Dark Web Report, Google encourages users to utilize alternative security features. These include “Security Checkup,” which evaluates account security settings; the built-in “Password Manager,” for creating unique passwords; and “Password Checkup,” which alerts users if saved passwords are compromised. Users can still take control of their data and delete monitoring profiles before the February 16 shutdown.
Users were notified via email about the shutdown, with scanning for new dark web breaches ending on January 16. After February 16, all data associated with the Dark Web Report will be permanently deleted from Google’s servers. For those concerned about data privacy, now is the time to review accounts, update passwords, and explore Google’s other security tools to stay protected online.
source: Techcrunch