23andMe Customers Urged to Delete Data Amid Bankruptcy

New York – In a consumer alert sent today, New York Attorney General Letitia James called on 23andMe customers to protect their genetic data by deleting it from the company’s database following its bankruptcy filing. 23andMe, known for its direct-to-consumer genetic testing services, collects and analyzes DNA samples to provide ancestry and health risk information.

“New Yorkers’ genetic data is sensitive information that must be protected at all costs,” AG James emphasized. “We urge customers to take immediate action to safeguard their personal data.”

The bankruptcy filing has raised concerns about the security of the vast trove of consumer data held by 23andMe. The Attorney General’s office offers a detailed guide on how consumers can delete their account and personal information, including downloading genetic data before deletion.

Instructions for deleting data include logging into the 23andMe account, accessing the “Settings” section, and navigating to the “23andMe Data” section. Customers must then download their data, if desired, before confirming permanent deletion through an email link.

For those who had their saliva samples and DNA stored by 23andMe, changes can be made in the account settings under “Preferences.” Consent for 23andMe and third-party researchers to use genetic data for research can also be withdrawn from the account settings page.

Attorney General James encourages New Yorkers facing difficulties deleting their data with 23andMe to file a complaint online through her office.