Protect your information with Google: check if your personal data is on the deep web

The security of your personal data is a growing concern in the Digital world. Even with all the precautions you can take, it’s likely that at some point, information like your name or email address has been compromised and ended up on the deep web.

The good news is that the Google offers a free tool that can be your best ally in this situation.

The deep web is an online space where sensitive information is traded and illegal activities such as drug sales, fraud and identity theft are carried out. In this complex scenario, protecting your information becomes crucial.

Google’s solution

Earlier this year, Google launched a free tool integrated into its Google One service. This tool allows users to check whether their Gmail accounts are available for sale on the deep web.

This capability has been expanded to include Android device users, allowing them to check whether their personal data is exposed.

Using this security tool is simple. Users can launch the Google app on their Android device and access the account menu located in the top right corner. In this menu, there is the option “Deep Web Report”

When you select this option, the tool will perform a web search for data such as names, addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, as well as usernames and passwords.

Image: Google/Reproduction

What to do if your data is on the deep web?

If the Google tool identifies that your data is being transacted on the deep web, the recommendation is to immediately change your passwords to more secure and complex ones, making them difficult to decipher.

Additionally, it is recommended to enable two-step authentication to add an extra layer of security.

Along with the use of the deep web, it is essential to adopt other measures to protect your data. Here are some essential tips:

• Avoid sharing personal information on unknown or untrustworthy websites, as the deep web is often fueled by data exposed due to online negligence;
• Make sure to use secure and unique passwords for your accounts, avoiding predictable passwords and always opting for combinations that include letters, numbers and special characters;
• Keeping your mobile device’s software up to date is critical, as frequent updates often include security fixes that protect against cyber threats;
• Be careful when clicking links and downloading files from the internet, as suspicious links are often used to spread malware and compromise devices.

Protecting your personal data in the digital age is a responsibility that everyone should take seriously. Google’s free tool offers an easy way to check if your data is on the deep web. Following best security practices can further strengthen the protection of your data against hackers and cyber threats.