23andMe Bankrupt: Delete Personal Data ASAP

California’s Attorney General Rob Bonta is urging millions of California customers of 23andMe to immediately delete their genetic data after the genetic testing company filed for bankruptcy this weekend.

Bonta issued a statement which reminded California residents to invoke their right to privacy under the Genetic Information Privacy Act and California Consumer Protection Act.

California has relatively strict privacy laws that give consumers the power to have their personal data deleted. Given the sensitive nature of 23andMe’s data, which includes physical samples of genetic material, customers would be well advised to invoke their rights, Bonta recommended.

The company’s data breach in 2023 increased customer privacy fears as hackers gained access to seven million users personal data which results in a lawsuit and $30 million settlement.

“Given 23andMe’s reported financial distress, I remind Californians to consider invoking their rights and directing 23andMe to delete their data and destroy any samples of genetic material held by the company,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta.

As a result of the bankruptcy protection proceedings, 23andMe is seeking a new owner. The company emphasized that any potential buyer must ensure the protection of its data.

“Our users’ privacy and data are important considerations in any transaction, and we remain committed to our users’ privacy and to being transparent with our customers about how their data is managed,” the company wrote. “Through this process, we will seek to find a partner who shares our commitment to customer data privacy.”

“There are no changes to the way the Company stores, manages, or protects customer data,” 23andMe said in a media release.

With the company up for sale, it is imperative for Americans who have handed over their DNA to 23andMe to understand that whoever purchases the company in future will have access to their personal data and that there is still time to request their information be destroyed.

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