ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — The New York State Attorney General is urging New Yorkers to delete their data off of 23andMe following its recent bankruptcy announcement. The genomics and biotechnology company is known for its DNA testing services.
23andME filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy on Monday.
The move came just one month after the company agreed to a $30 million settlement relating to a 2023 data breach that impacted 6.9 million customers.
Now, as part of the bankruptcy proceedings, 23andMe is planning to sell "substantially all of its assets," which includes the genetic data of more than 15 million customers. The company used the data to trace customers' ancestry, evaluate personal health risks and more.
The highest bidder, who will take over ownership of these assets, will reportedly have to comply with applicable privacy laws regarding the storage, management and protection of customer data. However, Attorney General Letitia James is reminding New Yorkers that they have a right to delete their genetic data and destroy any DNA samples held by 23andMe.
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"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."
Customers can delete their account and personal information by following these steps:
Log into your 23andMe account on the 23andMe website
Go to the "Settings" section of your profile
Scroll to the section labeled "23andMe Data" at the bottom of the webpage
Click "View" next to "23andMe Data"
Download your data: If you would like a copy of your genetic data for personal use, choose the option to download it to your device before proceeding
Scroll to the "Delete Data" section
Click "Permanently Delete Data"
Confirm your request: You will receive an email from 23andMe; follow the link in the email to confirm your request to delete your data
If you had previously opted to have your saliva sample and DNA stored by 23andMe, you can change that preference under "Preferences" on your account settings page. If you had also previously consented to 23andMe and third-party researchers using your genetic data and sample for research, you can withdraw consent under the "Research and Product Consents" section on your account settings page.
If you have any issues deleting your data with 23andMe, contact the Attorney General's Office by filing a consumer complaint online.
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