A few days ago, the online genetic testing giant 23andMe filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, the CEO resigned, and it announced that it will seek new ownership of itself and its assets via a court-approved reorganization plan. What does this mean for you if you are one of their customers?
For now, the company claims that it will continue operating as normal and that it will take the safety of its customers’ data into account when considering any potential buyers. That said, 23andMe already experienced a serious data breach in 2023 and does use data in ways that could allow savvy individuals to identify users.
Should you decide that it’s not worth the risk of keeping your genetic information with 23andMe it is fairly straightforward to have it removed. Just log in, go to “Settings”, and scroll until you see “23andMe Data”. Use “View” to see your information and download it for yourself and then remove it by going to “Delete Data” and clicking on “Permanently Delete Data”. You will receive an email confirming your request with a link you must click to finalize the process.
It may also be worth having your stored saliva sample and DNA destroyed in the “Preferences” section of your account and withdrawing the company’s ability to share your data with third parties under “Research and Product Consents”. That last one might be worth doing even if you plan on continuing to use their services.
Cover image contains a photo by Melinda Gimpel on Unsplash.
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