Jobaaj Stories
23andMe Bankruptcy: Should You Delete Your Data?
23andMe's bankruptcy filing has sparked widespread concern among its 15 million+ customers about the fate of their sensitive genetic data. California Attorney General Rob Bonta, a 23andMe customer himself, is urging users to consider deleting their data, highlighting the potential risks associated with the company's financial instability and past data breaches.
Why the Urgent Call to Delete?
The company's 2023 data breach, impacting nearly 7 million users, and its ongoing financial struggles raise serious privacy concerns. While 23andMe claims strong data protection, the lack of HIPAA protection and the potential for a sale to a less scrupulous buyer fuel anxieties. Experts warn that a new owner could alter the privacy policy, potentially compromising sensitive genetic information. The data breach is a major red flag, and the uncertainty surrounding the future ownership makes data deletion a prudent precaution for many.
How to Delete Your 23andMe Data
Deleting your data is permanent and irreversible, although 23andMe will retain some minimal information for legal compliance. Here’s how:
- Log in to your account.
- Go to Settings.
- Find "23andMe Data" and select "View."
- Scroll to "Delete Data" and choose "Permanently Delete Data."
- Confirm via email.
Act Now: Protect Your Privacy
Although some data retention is unavoidable, taking proactive steps to delete your 23andMe data minimizes your risk in this uncertain situation. Don't delay, protect your privacy today.
