Was a long lecture? Simplify it…
Previously, this service was only available to Google One members
What’s the story
Google has announced that it will offer free dark web monitoring to all consumer account holders starting at the end of this month.
The decision comes in response to the increasing number of high-profile data breaches, which make it difficult for people to track how their personal information is being distributed on the dark web.
The service warns users if their personal information is found in data dumps sold or made public via the dark web.
Access Google’s dark web monitoring service
Previously, this service was only available to Google One members. However, in a recent update, the tech giant decided to extend this feature to all users.
To use the monitoring service once it goes live, users will need to visit Google’s ‘Results about you’ page.
This page allows users to sign up for notifications when their personal information appears in search results. In some cases, there is also the option to delete this information.
Understanding the Dark Web and Its Threats
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and can only be accessed through specialized browsers.
Hackers often use it as a marketplace to sell personal data obtained from attacks on websites, financial services providers and medical institutions.
Several indicators may indicate that your personal information is available on the dark web. These signals include receiving unsolicited emails, texts, and phone calls; unknown purchases made on your credit card; and alerts about unauthorized login or password changes.
Google’s Dark Web Report: A Closer Look
Google’s “dark web report” feature searches for leaked personal information, including names, addresses, phone numbers and email accounts.
The report is available on the ‘Results about you’ page at myactivity.google.com.
Other services, such as Proton Mail and LastPass, also monitor the dark web for leaked user information and passwords. If anything is found, the user is alerted.
If your personal information is found on the dark web, experts recommend freezing your exposed credit cards, regularly changing your passwords, and checking bank statements.
