Key Highlights
- Google offers free dark web monitoring for all users starting this month
- Visit the “Results about you” page to use the service
- If alerted, freeze credit cards and change passwords regularly
Starting later this month, Google will offer free dark web monitoring to all its consumer account holders. This initiative addresses the growing number of data breaches, providing a tool for individuals to track their personal information and prevent misuse.
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Google’s Dark Web Report: What It Does
Google’s “dark web report” feature scans for leaked personal information, such as names, phone numbers, addresses, and email accounts. This report is accessible via the “Results about you” page on myactivity.google.com. If your personal data is found on the dark web, Google will alert you, enabling you to take preventive measures.
How To Access Google’s Dark Web Monitoring
Previously exclusive to Google One members, the dark web monitoring service will now be available to all users. To use this service, users must visit Google’s “Results about you” page. This page already allows users to sign up for alerts if their personal information appears in search results, with options to delete this information in certain cases. By expanding the service, Google aims to help more people stay informed and secure in the face of increasing cyber threats.
Dark Web And Its Threats
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet, not indexed by standard search engines and available only through specialized browsers. It is often used by hackers as a marketplace for selling personal data obtained from various attacks on websites, financial institutions, and medical facilities. Indicators that your data may be on the dark web include unsolicited emails, texts, calls, unfamiliar purchases on your credit card, and alerts about unauthorized login attempts or password changes.
How To Protect Yourself If Your Data Is Compromised
If Google’s monitoring service finds your information on the dark web, experts recommend taking several steps to protect yourself. First, freeze any exposed credit cards to prevent unauthorized transactions. Regularly change your passwords and ensure they are strong and unique for different accounts. It’s also wise to review your bank statements and credit reports for any suspicious activity.
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Conclusion
Google’s decision to extend dark web monitoring to all users is a significant step towards enhancing online security for everyone. With cyber threats on the rise, having access to tools that monitor and alert you about potential data breaches is crucial. By staying vigilant and taking proactive measures, you can better protect your personal information in this increasingly digital world.
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