Google to Discontinue ‘Dark Web Report’ Feature Starting February 2026

Google has announced that its “dark web report” feature, launched approximately a year and a half ago, will be discontinued effective February 16, 2026. Initially, this tool was introduced to help users monitor their personal information on the dark web by scanning data breach dumps and notifying them if their personal details, such as email addresses, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers, were found in compromised databases.

Despite its potential value, Google said user feedback led to the decision to shut down the feature. Many users expressed frustration that the tool lacked clear, actionable steps to address identity theft risks. One common complaint in Reddit discussions was that the dark web report often advised users to change their passwords without specifying which accounts or websites were affected, leaving them unsure about next steps.

“We’re making this change to instead focus on tools that give you clearer, actionable steps to protect your information online,” Google explained on its support page. The company emphasised that it would continue to protect users from online threats, including those on the dark web, while developing additional tools to safeguard personal information.

Instead of relying on the dark web report, Google recommends using other security measures within its ecosystem. Tools such as the “Security Checkup,” which assesses the security of Google accounts; the built-in “Password Manager,” which generates secure, unique passwords; and “Password Checkup,” which alerts users when saved passwords are compromised, will remain in place to enhance user protection.

Google users who were using the dark web report feature have been notified by email, with the shutdown scheduled to begin in January 2026. From January 16, 2026, the tool will stop scanning for new dark web breaches, and by February 16, all data associated with the dark web report feature will be deleted from 9to5Google’s servers.

For users who wish to delete their monitoring profiles before the official shutdown, Google has outlined steps to do so through the “Results with your info” section. To delete a monitoring profile, users can select “Edit monitoring profile” and then choose “Delete monitoring profile” at the bottom.