Should You Delete Your 23AndMe Data After Bankruptcy Filing?

23AndMe Bankruptcy and Data Concerns

• 🧬 23AndMe has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, raising significant concerns among its 15 million consumers about the security and potential sale of their private genetic data.
• 😟 Users like Crystal Jones Bacon fear their information could be sold to entities such as insurance companies, advertisers, researchers, or even scammers.

Value of Genetic Data

• 💡 Experts highlight that genetic data is highly valuable, particularly for corporations seeking to personalize advertising or researchers looking for specific medical information.
• 💰 The potential misuse of this data, if it falls into the wrong hands, could lead to scams or discriminatory practices.

Consumer Protections and Actions

• ⚖️ Under the California Privacy Act, consumers are entitled to delete their genetic profile and account entirely by visiting the 23AndMe website.
• 🛡️ While concerns are valid, legal analysts note that bankruptcy court has approved the sale of assets with the stipulation that any buyer must maintain the same privacy measures as 23AndMe.
• ❓ The future of 23AndMe remains uncertain, with possibilities including reorganization or complete sale of the company.
• 🔒 23AndMe has stated that its existing consumer privacy policies remain in place and that customer data management and protection have not changed.