23andMe is a personal genomics and biotechnology company that offers direct-to-consumer genetic testing services. Customers provide a saliva sample, which the company analyzes to generate reports on ancestry and genetic predispositions to certain health conditions.
Recently, 23andMe filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to financial struggles, including weak demand for its testing kits and a significant data breach in 2023 that exposed sensitive information of approximately 5.5 million users. Co-founder Anne Wojcicki resigned as CEO to facilitate attempts to privatize the company.
In light of these developments, concerns have arisen regarding the security of personal genetic data. California’s Attorney General has issued consumer alerts, reminding residents of their rights under state privacy laws to request the deletion of their genetic data from 23andMe’s databases.
If you are a 23andMe customer and wish to delete your data, you can do so through your account settings on their website. It’s advisable to review the company’s current data retention and privacy policies before making this decision.