Genetic testing company 23andMe has filed for bankruptcy in the US following a decline in demand for its ancestry kits and a 2023 data breach that damaged its reputation. The company’s stock plummeted by 50% to 88 cents on Monday after co-founder Anne Wojcicki stepped down as CEO following several failed takeover attempts.
Can 23andMe Sell Your Genetic Data?
23andMe has assured customers that its data privacy policies will remain intact despite the bankruptcy or a potential sale. The company prohibits sharing user data with insurance companies and only allows law enforcement access with a valid warrant. However, privacy advocates warn that new ownership might change these policies.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has urged 23andMe to avoid selling its DNA database to companies with ties to law enforcement, citing concerns that genetic data could be misused for mass surveillance or indiscriminate police searches.
Should You Delete Your DNA Data?
Following the bankruptcy announcement, California Attorney General Rob Bonta advised 23andMe users to delete their genetic data from the platform. Users can request deletion by navigating to the “23andMe Data” section in their account settings. Although this process initiates immediate deletion, some genetic information may still be retained due to legal requirements.
Law professor Anya Prince highlighted that while deleting an account may reduce risks, it does not guarantee complete removal of genetic data, as some information may be retained without identifiable names attached.
Experts Warn of Potential Risks
Tech experts, including Washington Post columnist Geoffrey Fowler, have urged customers to delete their data. Fowler emphasized the risk that stored genetic information could be sold or transferred to a new company, which may use it for purposes that differ from the original intent.
“If you’re one of the 15 million people who shared your DNA with 23andMe, it’s time to delete your data,” Fowler warned.
How to Delete Your 23andMe Data
To delete your 23andMe data, follow these steps:
- Log in to your 23andMe account.
- Go to the “23andMe Data” section in settings.
- Request account deletion and follow the prompts to confirm.
Once the request is processed, most data will be erased, although some genetic information may be retained due to compliance with legal obligations.
Future of 23andMe’s DNA Database
As 23andMe navigates bankruptcy, privacy advocates stress the importance of safeguarding genetic data from misuse. Users are advised to delete their accounts and genetic information to minimize potential risks if the company is sold or acquired by another entity.
