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Google’s ‘dark web report’ feature will no longer be available starting in February - TechCrunch

Lau Chi Fung

— 2 min read

Google discontinues Dark Web Report Feature

In a recent announcement, Google revealed that its dark web report feature will be discontinued on February 16, 2026. The tool, which was launched about a year and a half ago, aimed to help users monitor their personal data activity across the dark web.

What was the Dark Web Report Feature?

The dark web report feature allowed users to track and monitor their personal data activity in real-time on the dark web. This included monitoring for any suspicious activity related to their email accounts, Google Drive files, or other sensitive information.

For a relatively short period of time, this tool was a valuable resource for individuals looking to protect themselves from online threats. However, it appears that Google has decided to discontinue the feature due to various reasons.

Reasons behind Discontinuation

While the exact reasons behind Google's decision are not yet clear, there are several possible explanations:

  • Cost and Resource Allocation: Maintaining a tool that monitors dark web activity requires significant resources and funding. It is likely that Google has decided to reallocate these resources to other areas of its business.
  • Limited Effectiveness: The effectiveness of the dark web report feature in detecting and preventing online threats may be limited. This could be due to various factors, including the complexity of dark web activity or the sophistication of cybercriminals.
  • Compliance with Regulations: Google may have faced pressure from regulatory bodies to discontinue the tool due to concerns about data privacy and security.

Impact on Users

The discontinuation of the dark web report feature will likely impact users who relied on this tool to monitor their personal data activity. For individuals who use this feature, it is essential to explore alternative options for protecting themselves from online threats.

Alternatives to Dark Web Report Feature

While there is no replacement for Google's dark web report feature, several alternatives are available:

  • Third-Party Tools: Various third-party tools offer similar functionality to the dark web report feature. Some popular options include Maltego, Shodan, and Ahmia.
  • Browser Extensions: Several browser extensions, such as Dark Web Tracker and DeepDotWeb, also offer features that track online activity and detect threats.
  • Incident Response Services: Companies specializing in incident response services can provide users with expert-level protection against online threats.

Conclusion

Google's decision to discontinue its dark web report feature is a significant development for individuals looking to protect themselves from online threats. While this tool was a valuable resource, it is essential to explore alternative options for monitoring personal data activity and detecting threats.

As the threat landscape continues to evolve, users must adapt their strategies to stay ahead of cybercriminals. By leveraging third-party tools, browser extensions, and incident response services, individuals can maintain effective protection against online threats.

FAQs

Q: What is the dark web report feature?

A: The dark web report feature allowed users to monitor their personal data activity in real-time on the dark web.

Q: Why was the dark web report feature discontinued?

A: While the exact reasons are not yet clear, possible explanations include cost and resource allocation, limited effectiveness, and compliance with regulations.

Q: Are there alternative options for tracking online activity?

A: Yes, third-party tools, browser extensions, and incident response services offer similar functionality to the dark web report feature.

References

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