23andMe, the California-based personal genomics company, has today made a formal Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection filing. This decision deepens uncertainty about the long-term fate of its extensive genetic database. The company has faced recent and unprecedented scrutiny by the public for its data privacy practices. Now, as part of the bankruptcy proceedings, it wants to sell its genetic database.
In October 2023, a massive data breach allowed hackers to gain sensitive genetic and health information of almost 7 million 23andMe users. This led the company to recently file for bankruptcy. This breach increased an already surging awareness of privacy issues. As a consequence, hundreds of millions of new users are now prompted to protect their sensitive genetic data.
For starters, they are recommending customers who are concerned about their privacy should delete their genetic data from the company’s servers.
To remove their data from our database, consumers simply need to log into their account on 23andMe.com. After signing in, users will want to navigate to their account settings. From there, they can navigate to the option to Permanently Delete All Records.
After clicking this confusingly labeled button, customers then have to scroll all the way down the page. From there, they must click the red button which says “Permanently Delete Data.” As the deletion company explains, deletion can take up to 30 days to fully process. As a final point, since deleting genetic data is not required to participate in our service, customers may choose to keep it.
The specificity of genetic data is a primary danger, as each individual has a DNA sequence that is entirely their own. As NHGRI explains, DNA data can never truly be anonymized. Yet this very reality makes it particularly vulnerable to misuse should it be ever made public.
Given 23andMe's reported financial distress, I remind Californians to consider invoking their rights and directing 23andMe to delete their data and destroy any samples of genetic material held by the company. - California Attorney General Rob Bonta
In many ways, Adrianus Warmenhoven, cybersecurity expert, noted, genetic information is the most sensitive{' '}
23andMe's genetic data is the blueprint of your entire biological profile.
In response to the Chapter 11 filing, and related concerns about data privacy and security, California AG Rob Bonta issued a warning to consumers. He encouraged residents to think about removing their genetic information from 23andMe.
23andMe has made available an FAQ page on its website to answer customer questions and concerns relating to the bankruptcy filing. The shadier side of surveillance The company is not only trying to influence customers into deleting their data. Simultaneously, they’re deeply committed to acting in ways that protect user privacy.
23andMe has inundated with privacy scandals in the past few years. The company has faced criticism over its data sharing practices and the potential for genetic information to be used for discriminatory purposes. Those worries have only been exacerbated by the company’s recent data breach and filing for bankruptcy protection.
As the situation unfolds, individuals who have used 23andMe's services are encouraged to take proactive steps to safeguard their personal information.
Monitor your digital footprint regularly, and you can also sign up for credit monitoring or identity theft protection services. Revoke permissions you no longer require, shut down any account you don't use, and learn about how your data is used. - Adrianus Warmenhoven
