Google to Shut Down Dark Web Scanning Tool

Google is ending its Dark Web Report service, a tool that scanned the dark web for users' compromised personal data. The tech giant informed users via email on Monday that the service will cease monitoring for new information on January 15, 2026. All data will become unavailable after February 16, 2026.

According to Google, the reports generated by the tool didn't provide users with sufficiently helpful guidance on how to respond to identified risks. In its message to users, Google stated the change reflects a shift in focus toward developing tools that offer clearer, more actionable steps for online protection. The company emphasized its ongoing commitment to defending users from online threats, including those found on the dark web, and to creating tools that safeguard personal information.

Google recommends that users utilize its other existing security and privacy features, such as Privacy Checkups, Passkeys, 2-Step Verification, Google Password Manager, and Password Checkup.

Expert Advice: Stay Vigilant

Melissa Leong, author of "Happy Go Money," emphasizes the need for caution and awareness when safeguarding personal financial information from the dark web. Leong, who described the dark web as a marketplace for stolen data, told CTVNews.ca that staying informed and vigilant about online safety and personal information is crucial.

Leong advises individuals to regularly check their credit scores through credit reporting agencies like Equifax and TransUnion. She also highlighted the importance of using multi-factor authentication, a security measure requiring users to provide multiple forms of identification before accessing an account. In addition, she recommends the use of strong, unique passwords for accounts containing sensitive information.

Leong encourages Google account holders to review their Dark Web Report while the service is still active. She likened Google's decision to discontinue the tool to turning off a smoke alarm. The reason for turning off the alarm, according to Leong's interpretation of Google's message, is that it wasn't providing actionable information about the source of the problem or how to fix it.

CTV News reported they reached out to Google for comment but had not received a response by the time of publication.