Google discontinues Dark Web Report

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Google is discontinuing its Dark Web Report: The search for new data breaches on the dark web will end on January 15, 2026. One month later, on February 16, the tool will be completely shut down and all data stored in the monitoring profile will be deleted.

Google cites a lack of positive user feedback as the reason for the discontinuation. While the Dark Web Report provided general information, it did not offer helpful next steps. The company wants to focus instead on tools “that offer you concrete actions to protect your data online,” according to the official announcement.

Passkeys instead of passive monitoring

Instead of the Dark Web Report, Google recommends a range of alternative security features to its users. These include the security checkup, Passkey sign-in for Google accounts, and various authentication tools from the Google Safety Center. The Google Password Manager, with its integrated password check, will also play a central role in the future.

Another alternative is the “Results about you” tool. This allows users to check if personal data such as phone numbers or addresses appear in Google search results and request their removal. Unlike the Dark Web Report, which searched hidden Tor network services for leaked data, this tool focuses on publicly indexed content.

Data will be automatically deleted

Users who have used the Dark Web Report so far do not need to do anything. Google will automatically delete all data in the monitoring profile on February 16, 2026. Those who wish to remove their data prematurely can do so via the “Dark Web Report” menu item. By selecting “Results that contain your data” and “Edit monitoring profile,” the “Monitoring profile” can be deleted with a single click.

The decision aligns with Google's current security strategy, which increasingly emphasizes preventive measures. Passkeys use cryptographic public-key authentication according to the FIDO2 standard and are resistant to phishing attacks. The Google Password Manager compares stored passwords with databases of known leaks and warns about compromised credentials.

Alternatives available

Those who do not want to forgo dark web monitoring in the future can find corresponding services from other providers. Have I Been Pwned offers free leak queries, while commercial providers such as Experian, Mozilla Monitor Plus, NordPass, or Bitwarden offer more comprehensive scans with automated alerts. For enterprise customers, Microsoft integrates corresponding functions into its Defender.

In its announcement, Google promises to continue protecting users from online threats, including those from the dark web. However, any plans for a successor tool have not yet been announced.

(fo)