In a previous post, we discussed how to remove your genetic data from 23andMe. Today, the company has been sold at auction to a pharma company for $256M.

Why You Should Delete Your 23andMe Data Now

Steps to Delete Your 23andMe Data

Despite the financial turmoil, 23andMe still offers ways to delete personal information. Here’s how you can attempt to remove your data. The first step is the most important one and the others cover additional scenarios that may or may not affect you personally.

1. Delete Your Account Through Settings

If the website remains operational:

• Log in to your 23andMe account.
• Navigate to Settings > Account > Delete Account.
• Select Permanently Delete My Account.
• Confirm your request via email.

2. Submit a Formal Data Deletion Request

• If you live in California, leverage the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) by emailing pr*****@*****me.com and requesting deletion of all personal, genetic, and biometric data.
• If you’re in the EU, request deletion under GDPR by contacting the same email or using the GDPR portal (if still accessible).

3. Consider Legal Action Through Bankruptcy Proceedings

• Since bankruptcy can affect how data is handled, you may need to file a request with the court.
• Locate the bankruptcy case details and submit an opt-out request for data processing or sale.

4. Withdraw Research Consent

• If you previously consented to research participation, send an email withdrawing consent and requesting deletion of all records.

5. Revoke Sharing With Third Parties

23andMe has partnerships with companies like GlaxoSmithKline, meaning your data may be shared beyond the platform. Request revocation of third-party sharing agreements.

Why This Matters

With bankruptcy proceedings underway, it’s unclear how 23andMe’s data policies will evolve. Some users worry that stored genetic information could be sold or transferred during restructuring. If privacy is a priority, taking action now ensures that your personal and genetic data remain in your control.

For updates, keep checking 23andMe’s official privacy statements and bankruptcy filings. And if you haven’t already, revisit our previous guide on DNA data deletion to ensure your full removal from their database.

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