Google dark web reports are coming to all users for free

Since last year, Google has been monitoring leaks of stolen account information on the dark web to Google One subscribers, such as telephone numbers and physical addresses. But starting later this month, Google dark web reports will be available to anyone with a Google account.

According to a Google support page about the transitionthe free service will be part of Google “Results about you” page. This is where you can currently check information indexed by Google that contains personal contact information, such as home address, phone number, or email address, and request that it be removed so that it does not appear in search results. Google says the move will create a “blended solution to help users protect their online presence.”

Of course, various services – paid and free, such as Have I been pranked? – will check your data on the dark web and send alerts. But for Google users, it makes sense to combine the company’s two monitoring features in one place to view potential leaks of personal information.

It’s unlikely these were the reasons anyone signed up for Google One, but it could be disheartening to see the benefits disappear without a corresponding drop in price.

The main reason to sign up for Google One is to get more storage for your Google account, including photos and Gmail storage. While there are other perks — including Google Meet’s premium video calling features, the ability to share your storage with up to five people, and improved appointment scheduling in Google Calendar — none are what attractive. Google Gemini’s AI capabilities might be something you would consider paying for, but they require higher levels of Google Onefrom $19.99 per month.