Google is taking steps to improve internet safety for its user base by making its dark web monitoring feature accessible to all Google account users starting July 2024. This service, previously only available to those subscribed to Google One, will be rolled out more widely in the coming weeks.
Google’s dark web monitoring service has been actively scanning the dark web for leaked account information, including phone numbers and physical addresses, for its Google One subscribers since last year.
The decision to make this service available to all Google account holders marks a notable shift in the company’s approach to cybersecurity.
The service will be integrated into the ‘results about you’ page. By consolidating these features, Google aims to provide a comprehensive cybersecurity solution for users.
“Dark web report will become available to all users with a consumer Google Account. Dark web report is integrated with Results about you as a combined solution to help users protect their online presence,” notes the support page. “Starting late July 2024, dark web report will no longer require a Google One membership. All users signed into their Google Accounts can use the feature as it’s made available along with Results about you.”
Google’s ‘results about you’ feature helps users find personal information, such as phone numbers, addresses, or other contact information, shown in search results.
As The Verge notes, other services, such as the well-known Have I Been Pwned?, offer similar dark web scanning and alert functionalities; Google’s integration of dark web reports into its existing infrastructure represents unique advantages.
Google users will benefit from a unified platform to monitor and manage potential personal information leaks, simplifying the processor and protecting their online activities.
Last month, Google announced the discontinuation of its VPN by Google One service.
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