TRENTON, NJ – Millions of Americans’ DNA samples on file with a DNA sequencing service are at risk of being sold, and that’s bad new for the hundreds of thousands in New Jersey who used 23andMe in the past.
Officials are alerting consumers to a looming deadline to file claims in the 23andMe bankruptcy case, while also warning that personal and genetic data may be sold as part of the company’s financial restructuring. The deadline for consumers to file a proof of claim is July 14.
The notice comes in the wake of 23andMe’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in March in the Eastern District of Missouri. The filing follows a major data breach in 2023, in which personal and genetic information of users may have been exposed. Under bankruptcy proceedings, such data could be considered a corporate asset and potentially sold to buyers.
“My office is not directing all 23andMe consumers to delete their accounts, but we encourage those consumers to consider such action,” said Attorney General Sunday. “Pennsylvanians should be aware of a potential sale of their information as part of the bankruptcy process.”
To Delete Genetic Data from 23andMe
Log into your 23andMe account.
Go to the “Settings” section of your profile.
Scroll down to a section labeled “23andMe Data” at the bottom of the page.
Click “View” next to “23andMe Data.”
Download your data if you’d want to retain a copy of your genetic data for personal storage.
Scroll down to the “Delete Data” section.
Click “Permanently Delete Data.”
Confirm your request by following the instructions emailed to you by 23andMe. You must confirm the request to have your data removed.
To Destroy Your 23andMe Test Sample
The Office of Attorney General has taken steps to protect consumers by pushing for the appointment of a consumer protection ombudsman. This overseer will monitor the company’s security policies and evaluate how any future sale would impact customer information.
Consumers who believe they were affected can submit a claim online through the bankruptcy administration site. The portal also includes a Frequently Asked Questions page that outlines options for deleting personal data and deactivating accounts.
Steps to delete genetic data and destroy DNA samples
Customers wishing to permanently remove their data can do so by logging into their 23andMe accounts and accessing the “Settings” section. From there, they must locate the “23andMe Data” section, download their data if desired, and follow the steps to “Permanently Delete Data,” including confirming the deletion request via email.
Those who had opted to store their DNA saliva sample with 23andMe can change this preference through the account’s “Preferences” section. By revoking permission for sample storage, users can ensure their physical DNA is also destroyed.
Though deletion is voluntary, Sunday emphasized that consumers should be fully informed of the potential use of their data as the bankruptcy process unfolds. The court-appointed ombudsman is expected to provide oversight during any data-related negotiations or sales.
The 23andMe bankruptcy case has drawn national attention due to the sensitive nature of the data involved, which includes not only identifying information but detailed genetic profiles. As of now, the company has not confirmed any plans to sell consumer data but acknowledges it remains a possible outcome under Chapter 11 restructuring.
Consumers have until July 14 to file claims if they wish to be included in the bankruptcy case’s outcomes.
Your DNA could be on the auction block if you don’t act.
