The social network Google+ wanted to record it with Facebook – and has crashed crashing. After several data breaches, Google now pulls the plug. Users have some time left to save their data.
On April 2, Google Plus (or G +) is history. The social network is finally closed. According to the official schedule, the functions will be switched off gradually. As of February 4, no new accounts, groups or events can be created. From March 7th, the comment function will be disabled. Even existing interfaces will be closed gradually. In the last step, all profiles are deleted.
After that, users will no longer be able to access their photos, videos and other content. In an email Google asks all users to back up their data. Instructions can be found here .
Series of data scandals
The decision to close the social network fell already in the autumn of 2018. Previously, it had become known that it was possible for third-party app developers through interfaces for developers (so-called APIs) to tap massively private user data. Google already knew about the vulnerability in March 2018, but did not reveal the problem to the approximately 500,000 affected users.
After a second data breach with more than 52.5 million affected Google preferred the already agreed off for its failed network on April. Originally August 2019 had been targeted.
The farewell to the social network should not be too difficult for the Internet company: Google Plus has never been particularly successful. With the closure, the group gets rid of a nuisance. The data scandals could still have consequences. The Irish Data Protection Authority is already investigating.