23andMe Faces Lawsuit for Selling Genetic Data

New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a landmark lawsuit against 23andMe, charging the DNA testing giant with an attempt to sell the genetic information of 15 million Americans without their consent. The controversial move by 23andMe comes as the company faces bankruptcy and seeks to liquidate its assets.

The AG’s office argues that the sensitive genetic data collected from millions of customers is too valuable and personal to be sold off without explicit permission. James and a coalition of 27 other attorneys general demand that 23andMe comply with state laws governing the sale or transfer of such confidential information.

“23andMe cannot auction millions of people’s personal genetic information without their consent,” said Attorney General James. “New Yorkers and many others around the country trusted 23andMe with their private information, and they have a right to know what will be done with their data.”

The lawsuit highlights growing concerns over the misuse of genetic data and the potential for future breaches that could expose individuals to identity theft or discrimination. The attorneys general also warn against the possibility of genetic data being used in unforeseen ways by buyers, such as insurance companies or employers.

23andMe, known for its direct-to-consumer DNA testing kits, has faced criticism before over privacy issues and data protection. In response to the lawsuit, 23andMe issued a statement affirming its commitment to customer privacy but did not address the allegations of improper data sale.

Joining Attorney General James in the lawsuit are attorneys general from Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

RELATED: 23andMe Faces Legal Fire for Genetic Data Sale