Google+ Shuts Down Due to Security Breach

Google originally created their social media platform in 2011 as an attempt to compete with Facebook. Even early on it was obvious that Google+ just wasn’t even a contender to the social media giant. Personally, I’ve never known anyone that actually uses Google+ to stay in touch with friends and family.

All that aside, this post isn’t about how Google+ wasn’t a very good social media platform. Even if that is the narrative Google hopes you attribute to their platform’s demise.

Back in March, Google’s security was breached, the private data of over 500,000 people was taken, and that they avoided disclosing this to the public out of fear of repercussions.

The security hole was patched soon after the breach, so don’t feel like you need to run off and delete Google+. Here’s a link for those who don’t care: Google Support, Delete Google+

If this news makes you feel less trusting of Google, I don’t blame you. Google has a track record of doing some weird stuff, such as letting their apps scan your emails in order to personalize ads for you and the amount of information we’re providing certain tech companies through our computer, tablet, and phone usage is on an unprecedented scale.

Personally, I don’t think you should rush off and delete your Gmail just yet. Just remember the golden rule of the internet: if it’s free, you’re probably the product.