Google has officially announced that its Dark Web Report feature will be discontinued starting February 16, 2026, marking the end of a tool designed to alert users when their personal data appears on the dark web.
The feature, introduced around a year and a half ago, aimed to enhance online safety by scanning data breach records and notifying users if sensitive information such as email addresses, phone numbers, names, or Social Security numbers were exposed.
Why Google Is Ending the Dark Web Report
According to Google, user feedback played a key role in the decision. While the tool successfully detected compromised data, many users felt it lacked clear and actionable guidance on what to do next. In most cases, users were simply advised to change passwords without knowing which specific accounts or platforms were affected.
Google acknowledged that the feature did not effectively help users manage identity risks, prompting the company to refocus on security tools that provide more practical protection steps.
What Happens Next for Users
Google confirmed that dark web scanning for new data breaches will stop on January 16, 2026. One month later, on February 16, 2026, the Dark Web Report feature will be fully removed, and all related monitoring data will be permanently deleted from Google’s servers.
Users currently enrolled in the service should be aware that no further alerts will be generated after the cutoff dates.
Alternative Security Tools Google Recommends
Although the Dark Web Report is being retired, Google says it will continue strengthening user protection through other built-in security features, including:
- Security Checkup – Reviews account security settings and highlights potential risks
- Password Manager—Helps generate and store strong, unique passwords
- Password Checkup – Alerts users if saved passwords are compromised in data breaches
These tools are designed to offer clearer next steps and better control over personal account security.
How to Delete Your Dark Web Monitoring Profile
Users who want to remove their data before the feature is discontinued can manually delete their monitoring profile by navigating to
Results with your info → Edit monitoring profile → Delete monitoring profile
Completing this step will stop monitoring and remove associated data ahead of Google’s scheduled shutdown.
The retirement of Google’s Dark Web Report highlights a shift toward security tools that focus on actionable protection rather than alerts alone. While the feature’s removal may disappoint some users, Google’s expanded emphasis on account security and password protection suggests a broader strategy to help users stay safe online.
As the February 2026 deadline approaches, users are encouraged to review their account security settings and take advantage of Google’s remaining protection tools.
