Amid financial collapse of 23andMe, New York AG warns consumers of risks to genetic privacy and outlines step-by-step instructions to delete personal data and DNA samples

New York – In a significant move to protect consumer privacy, New York Attorney General Letitia James has issued a consumer alert specifically aimed at customers of the genetic testing company, 23andMe. This alert comes in the wake of the company’s recent bankruptcy filing and its plans to sell its assets, which has raised concerns over the privacy and security of the sensitive data collected from its customers.

23andMe, known for its services in genetic testing that help individuals trace their ancestry and identify health risks through DNA analysis, holds a vast amount of personal and genetic information. Recognizing the potential risks this bankruptcy poses to data security, Attorney General James is urging all New Yorkers who have used the service to proactively manage and delete their personal data from the company’s records.

“New Yorkers’ genetic data is sensitive information that must be protected at all costs,” said Attorney General James. “23andMe’s bankruptcy announcement is concerning and I am urging New Yorkers to take action to safeguard their data. New Yorkers can follow instructions offered by my office to delete their data or destroy any DNA samples held by 23andMe. Anyone experiencing issues deleting their information stored with 23andMe should contact my office.”

For customers wishing to delete their personal information, the process is straightforward:

• Log into your 23andMe account on the company’s official website.
• Navigate to the “Settings” section of your profile.
• At the bottom of the page, you will find a section labeled “23andMe Data.” Click “View” next to this label.
• If you wish to keep a copy of your genetic data, you have the option to download it to your device before deletion.
• Scroll down to the “Delete Data” section and click on “Permanently Delete Data.”
• To finalize the deletion, you will need to confirm your request by following a link sent to your email by 23andMe.

Furthermore, if any customer has previously agreed to have their saliva sample stored or allowed their DNA to be used for research, these consents can also be withdrawn. These options are accessible through the account settings under “Preferences” and “Research and Product Consents” respectively.

Attorney General James has also extended help to those who might face difficulties in the deletion process. New Yorkers experiencing any issues can reach out to her office by filing a complaint online, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to protect their genetic data.

This proactive approach by the New York Attorney General’s Office highlights the growing need for stringent data protection measures, especially in cases where companies handling sensitive information face financial instability. The efforts to safeguard consumer privacy in this digital age are more crucial than ever, particularly when it involves such personal data as one’s genetic information.