Google is upgrading its dark web monitoring tool to enhance overall user security. The service, which was originally available exclusively for Google One subscribers as a perk of their subscription, will now be free and accessible to all Google account holders through the "results about you" page.
What happened
Since last year, Google has been providing dark web monitoring for Google One subscribers, alerting them to stolen account information such as phone numbers and physical addresses. However, starting later this month, this service will be free to all Google account holders through the “results about you” page. This page currently allows users to check for personal contact information indexed by Google and request its removal from search results.
Google aims to offer a combined solution to help users protect their online presence by integrating dark web monitoring with its existing personal information management features. As a result, Google One subscribers will lose their exclusive dark web monitoring benefit. Additionally, Google has announced that its VPN by Google One service will be discontinued later this year.
While Google One offers additional storage for photos, emails, and other data, as well as perks like premium Google Meet features and enhanced appointment scheduling, the removal of these two services might be disappointing for subscribers. The main draw of Google One remains its storage benefits, with advanced AI features requiring higher-tier subscriptions.
In the know
Google's dark web monitoring tool is a security feature that helps users protect their personal information by scanning the dark web for stolen account data. This includes sensitive details like phone numbers, physical addresses, and email addresses that may have been compromised in data breaches. The tool works by continuously monitoring dark web forums, marketplaces, and other sources where such data is traded or shared. If any user information is detected, the tool sends alerts to notify the user of the potential breach and provides guidance on protective measures.
Related: What is a web tracker?
What was said
With Google aiming to focus on providing its most sought-after features, Google One will be discontinued. “However, it’ll continue to be available as a built-in capability on Pixel 7 and up devices and via Google Fi Wireless,” says Google. This change will establish an integrated solution that will assist Google users safeguard their digital identities.
According to The Verge, Google One user Jennifer Pattison Tuohy said, “Google One users, such as myself, are losing their dark web monitoring benefit—but a version is coming to every Google user for free.” This reflects both a sense of loss for current Google One subscribers and a recognition of the broader positive impact for all Google account holders.
See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide
Why it matters
Google's dark web monitoring tool empowers users to take control of their online security, mitigate risks, and maintain their privacy in a world that is continuously relying on digital technology. These are some of its advantages:
- Enhanced security: It helps users detect if their personal information has been compromised and is circulating on the dark web, allowing them to take prompt action to secure their accounts and identities.
- Early warning: By receiving alerts about potential breaches, users can address issues before they escalate, reducing the risk of identity theft, financial fraud, and other cybercrimes.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that their information is being monitored provides users with reassurance and peace of mind, as they have a proactive way to safeguard their digital presence.
- Convenience: Integrating this tool into Google's "results about you" page offers a centralized and user-friendly platform for managing and protecting personal data, streamlining the process of monitoring and responding to potential threats.
- Accessibility: Making the tool available for free to all Google account holders democratizes access to essential cybersecurity tools, ensuring that more people can benefit from enhanced protection without incurring additional costs.
FAQs
Will the dark web monitoring tool affect my Google One subscription?
Google One subscribers will lose the exclusive dark web monitoring benefit, but they will still retain other perks of the subscription, such as additional storage and premium features. The dark web monitoring tool will now be available to all Google users for free.
Why is Google making this tool available to everyone?
Google aims to provide a comprehensive solution to help users protect their online presence. By offering this tool for free, Google is democratizing access to essential cybersecurity features.
Tshedimoso Makhene
