23andMe Files for Bankruptcy: What Happens to Your DNA Data Now?
DNA testing company 23andMe has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, raising serious privacy concerns for its 15+ million customers' genetic data. Here's what you need to know and what actions to take.
What's Happening 23andMe's bankruptcy filing includes potential sale of company assets, including genetic data, family lineage profiles, and stored biological samples. While the company promises to follow privacy laws, there's limited federal protection since customers are considered consumers, not patients under HIPAA.
Privacy Risks
- Customer data may be transferred during bankruptcy proceedings
- New owners could change privacy policies and data usage terms
- Recent breach already exposed 6.9 million customer records
- Limited legal protection for genetic information
Expert Concerns Harvard health law expert I. Glenn Cohen warns customers have "very little say" over their data's future. "You may have trusted 23andMe, but you don't get to choose who owns your DNA tomorrow," he states.
How to Protect Your Data
- Delete your account through "23andMe data" in account settings
- Request biological sample disposal
- Note that published research using your data cannot be reversed
- Expect confirmation email after deletion
Important Notes:
- Company must retain some data for legal compliance
- Previously shared research data cannot be withdrawn
- Current privacy policy allows data transfer during "bankruptcy, merger, or acquisition"
- California AG Rob Bonta recommends immediate data deletion
Next Steps The bankruptcy process is moving quickly, with CEO Anne Wojcicki's takeover bid already rejected. Potential buyers include private equity firms and tech companies, who could modify existing privacy terms and data usage policies.
Quick FAQs: Q: Is my 23andMe data safe? A: Safety depends on future buyer's policies and practices.
Q: Can I delete my account? A: Yes, through account settings with email confirmation.
Q: Does HIPAA protect my data? A: No, 23andMe users are consumers, not patients.
Q: Can my DNA be sold? A: Yes, during bankruptcy/sale, typically anonymized.
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