This week, Google will start shutting down its dark web monitoring tool — the Dark Web Report — which was designed to scan the dark web for users’ exposed personal information. Users who want to stay “in the loop” should seek other tools.
Shutdown timeline
- January 15, 2026: The scans for new dark web breaches stop.
- February 16, 2026: The dark web report is no longer available, all data related to the report will be deleted.
Google previously stated its intention to focus on tools that provide customers with clearer, more actionable steps to protect their online information. However, no concrete announcements regarding new cybersecurity tools have been made by the company to date.
Karolis Arbaciauskas, head of product at the cybersecurity company NordPass, comments:
“It’s a useful tool. But I guess it’s time for something new, especially since other similar tools already offer prescriptive advice and practical recommendations for users whose data is found on the dark web. Google often replaces its products and features with new ones instead of updating them. Users should look for reliable tools that are dedicated to this task and are constantly supported and updated.
“Proactively monitoring the dark web for your credentials is a critical security habit. Fortunately, Google’s tool was never the only option. Security-conscious users who wish to continue scanning the dark web can utilize the tools offered by modern password managers.
“These integrated tools have evolved significantly in recent years. Advanced password managers now feature built-in scanners that operate 24/7, continuously monitoring the dark web and instantly alerting users if credentials or credit card data are detected. This enables individuals to take swift action before threats escalate.
“In case of a breach, the key is to act quickly. If you get an alert about your data being exposed, take immediate steps: change all affected passwords, cancel compromised credit cards, and review your account activity for anything suspicious.”
I’m currently looking around for a tool or tools to replace this. If I come across any, I will let you know. But if you have any suggestions, please leave a comment and let us all know.
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This entry was posted on January 12, 2026 at 9:52 am and is filed under Commentary with tags Google. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.
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Reminder: Google shutting down the Dark Web Monitoring Tool this week
This week, Google will start shutting down its dark web monitoring tool — the Dark Web Report — which was designed to scan the dark web for users’ exposed personal information. Users who want to stay “in the loop” should seek other tools.
Shutdown timeline
Google previously stated its intention to focus on tools that provide customers with clearer, more actionable steps to protect their online information. However, no concrete announcements regarding new cybersecurity tools have been made by the company to date.
Karolis Arbaciauskas, head of product at the cybersecurity company NordPass, comments:
“It’s a useful tool. But I guess it’s time for something new, especially since other similar tools already offer prescriptive advice and practical recommendations for users whose data is found on the dark web. Google often replaces its products and features with new ones instead of updating them. Users should look for reliable tools that are dedicated to this task and are constantly supported and updated.
“Proactively monitoring the dark web for your credentials is a critical security habit. Fortunately, Google’s tool was never the only option. Security-conscious users who wish to continue scanning the dark web can utilize the tools offered by modern password managers.
“These integrated tools have evolved significantly in recent years. Advanced password managers now feature built-in scanners that operate 24/7, continuously monitoring the dark web and instantly alerting users if credentials or credit card data are detected. This enables individuals to take swift action before threats escalate.
“In case of a breach, the key is to act quickly. If you get an alert about your data being exposed, take immediate steps: change all affected passwords, cancel compromised credit cards, and review your account activity for anything suspicious.”
I’m currently looking around for a tool or tools to replace this. If I come across any, I will let you know. But if you have any suggestions, please leave a comment and let us all know.
Share this:
Like this:
Related
This entry was posted on January 12, 2026 at 9:52 am and is filed under Commentary with tags Google. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.