Google has revealed that its ‘dark web reporting’ feature will be discontinued from February 16, 2026. It started at the beginningAbout a year and a half ago, this tool aimed to help users track their personal information on the dark web
For some users, the dark web report seemed like a valuable tool, scanning various data breaches and alerting them if their personal information—such as email addresses, names, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers—was in compromised databases.
However, as noted in it support pageGoogle decided to shut down the feature due to feedback suggesting it “didn’t provide useful next steps” for users facing potential identity risks.
Many users echoed this, with discussions on Reddit reflecting a common frustration: the tool didn’t offer useful tips. As a commentator Putting it this way, it often felt like all users could do was change their passwords without clear guidance on which accounts or sites were affected.
“We’re making this change to focus on tools that give you clearer, proactive steps to protect your information online,” the tech giant wrote. “We will continue to monitor and protect you from online threats, including the dark web, and build tools to help protect you and your personal information.”
In place of the dark web reporting feature, Google recommended other protective measures. The company offers other tools, such as Security Check, which checks the security of your Google Account. a built-in “Password Manager” for creating unique passwords. and “Password Checker,” which sends notifications when saved passwords have been compromised, among other features.
9to5Google was the first to spot the planned shutdown, noting that users were notified via email.
Techcrunch event
San Francisco
|
13-15 October 2026
If you’ve been using the dark web reporting feature, it’s important to note that scanning for new dark web breaches will stop on January 16th. The dark web reporting tool will be officially shut down on February 16 and all related data will be deleted from Google’s servers.
Users who want to take control of their data before the deadline can delete their profiles by going to “Results with your information”, then selecting “Edit Tracking Profile” and selecting “Delete Tracking Profile” at the bottom.
