In recent news, 23andMe, the popular DNA testing company known for helping people trace their family roots, has filed for bankruptcy protection. This news has raised serious concerns about the safety and privacy of your genetic data. The company, which has served around 15 million customers worldwide, is now facing financial struggles. Anne Wojcicki, the CEO and co-founder, has also stepped down. As a result, California’s Attorney General, Rob Bonta, is urging customers to take action to protect their genetic data.

What Happened to 23andMe?

23andMe has been at the forefront of genetic testing, providing services to people who want to learn more about their ancestry and health. However, the company recently filed for bankruptcy protection due to “financial distress” and uncertainty about its ability to continue operating. The company has DNA also faced a major security issue in the past. In 2023, a data breach exposed the personal data of seven million users, though the company claimed that DNA records were not compromised. Despite this, the breach raised questions about how secure customer data really is.

The Call for Action: Protecting Your Genetic Data

In light of 23andMe’s financial instability and security concerns, California’s Attorney General, Rob Bonta, has issued a warning. He is advising consumers who have used the service to consider exercising their rights under California’s strong privacy laws. These laws allow you to request the deletion of your genetic data from 23andMe.

Bonta emphasized that California residents can take DNA control of their personal information by ensuring that 23andMe removes any genetic data and destroys any biological samples they have stored. He said, “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.”

How to Delete Your Genetic Data from 23andMe

If you are concerned about your genetic privacy and want to remove your data from 23andMe, the process is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Log In to Your Account
Start by logging into your 23andMe account on their website.
Go to Settings
Once logged in, head to the “Settings” section of your profile.
Find the ’23andMe Data’ Section
Scroll down to the “23andMe Data” section at the bottom of the page.
View Your Data
Click on “View” next to the “23andMe Data” section to see all the data 23andMe has on you.
Download Your Data
If you want a personal copy of your genetic information, you can choose to download it to your device before you proceed with deletion.
Delete Your Data
Scroll to the “Delete Data” section and click “Permanently Delete Data.”
Confirm Deletion
You will receive an email from 23andMe asking you to confirm your DNA deletion request. Follow the link in the email to complete the process.

How to Destroy Your 23andMe Test Sample

If you opted to have 23andMe store your saliva sample or other DNA biological material, you can change that preference as well. Here’s how to ensure your sample is destroyed:

Log In to Your 23andMe Account
Visit your account settings page again.
Update Preferences
Under “Preferences,” you can change the settings related to the storage of your DNA sample.
Request Sample Destruction
Follow the instructions to request the destruction of your stored biological sample.

Why You Should Act Now

With 23andMe going through financial troubles and undergoing a “court-supervised sale process,” there’s no guarantee that your data will be secure in the future. The company has stated that it is DNA committed to safeguarding customer data, but with such uncertainty surrounding its future, taking action now may be the best way to protect your privacy.

Final Thoughts

While 23andMe’s bankruptcy might be a sign of larger issues, the bigger concern for many is the safety and security of their genetic data. With data breaches already in the past and financial uncertainty ahead, it’s important to consider whether you want your personal genetic information stored with a company facing these challenges. If you want to take control of your data, you can easily delete your genetic information and request the destruction of your DNA sample through the simple steps outlined above.

By staying proactive, you can ensure that your genetic privacy remains in your hands.