How to delete your 23andMe data amid company's bankruptcy

Source: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/News/23andme-data-delete/story?id=120135468

Summary

Amid 23andMe's bankruptcy filing, users are concerned about the security of their genetic data and exploring data deletion options. The company's potential sale raises questions about data access under new ownership, despite assurances of privacy protection. Users delete data due to privacy concerns, wanting control, and fear of policy changes. The process involves logging in, navigating to settings, confirming identity, and understanding deletion consequences. Alternatives include downloading raw data, limiting sharing, and opting out of research. 23andMe's situation highlights broader industry challenges regarding data security, privacy, ethics, and regulation, prompting users to review their account settings and consider data deletion.

Full News Report

## How to Delete Your 23andMe Data Amid Company's Bankruptcy Concerns **In the wake of 23andMe's recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, many users are understandably concerned about the security and privacy of their personal genetic data. The company, known for its direct-to-consumer genetic testing services, announced it may be looking for a buyer. This development has prompted a surge of questions about how to delete your 23andMe data, a process that, while always available, now carries a heightened sense of urgency for some. This article outlines the steps involved in deleting your 23andMe data, provides context surrounding the company's situation, and discusses the potential implications for user privacy.** 23andMe, a pioneer in the direct-to-consumer genetic testing industry, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing financial challenges and ongoing restructuring efforts. The announcement came as a surprise to many, given the company's prominence and the growing popularity of genetic testing services. Amid this news, users are scrambling to understand the implications for their personal genetic information and explore options for removing their data from the company's databases. ### Understanding 23andMe's Bankruptcy and Potential Sale The decision to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection allows 23andMe to reorganize its finances and operations while continuing to operate. A key component of this process may involve seeking a buyer for the company or its assets. This potential sale raises significant concerns about what would happen to the vast amount of genetic data 23andMe holds, data contributed by millions of users seeking insights into their ancestry, health risks, and traits. The 'who' in this situation is 23andMe, their users, and potential acquiring companies. The 'what' is the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing and the option to delete personal data. The 'when' is now, following the bankruptcy announcement. The 'where' refers to 23andMe's operations and servers globally. The 'why' involves financial difficulties and concerns about data privacy. And the 'how' focuses on the steps to delete your 23andMe data, which will be detailed below. The company has stated that it is committed to protecting user privacy during this transition. However, the possibility of a new owner gaining access to the data raises legitimate questions about the future use and security of this sensitive information. While 23andMe's privacy policy outlines data handling practices, the terms could potentially be altered under new ownership, even though significant legal protections exist. ### Why Delete Your 23andMe Data? The decision to delete your 23andMe data is a personal one, often driven by a combination of factors. Common reasons include: * **Privacy Concerns:** Users may feel uneasy about sharing their genetic information with a company that is facing financial instability and potential acquisition. They may be worried about the potential for unauthorized access, misuse, or resale of their data, especially considering the sensitive nature of genetic information. * **Control Over Data:** Many individuals believe they should have complete control over their personal data, including the right to delete it entirely from a company's database. The bankruptcy proceedings may amplify this desire for control. * **Changing Privacy Policies:** There is always a risk that a new owner could alter 23andMe's privacy policies in a way that is less favorable to users. Deleting your data now can mitigate this risk. * **Reducing Potential for Discrimination:** While legal protections exist, some individuals worry about the potential for genetic information to be used for discriminatory purposes, such as in employment or insurance. Deleting your data can help reduce this risk. * **Concerns about Law Enforcement Access:** In some cases, law enforcement agencies have sought access to genetic data for investigative purposes. While 23andMe has a track record of resisting such requests, users may still be concerned about the possibility of their data being used in this way. ### How to Delete Your 23andMe Data: A Step-by-Step Guide Deleting your 23andMe data is a relatively straightforward process, although it's important to understand the implications before taking action. Here's a step-by-step guide: 1. **Log in to Your 23andMe Account:** Visit the 23andMe website (www.23andme.com) and log in using your username and password. Ensure you have access to the account you wish to delete data from. 2. **Navigate to Account Settings:** Once logged in, click on your profile name or picture in the upper right corner of the screen. From the dropdown menu, select "Settings". 3. **Access Data Deletion Options:** Within the "Settings" page, look for a section related to privacy or data management. You'll likely find an option to close your account and delete your data, potentially located under a heading like "Account Closure and Data Deletion". Be sure to read the fine print. 4. **Confirm Your Identity:** 23andMe will likely require you to verify your identity before proceeding with the deletion process. This may involve entering your password or answering security questions. 5. **Understand the Consequences:** Before deleting your data, carefully read the information provided by 23andMe about the consequences of deletion. This will typically include information about what data will be deleted, how long the process will take, and whether you can recover your data later. 6. **Initiate the Deletion Process:** Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the data deletion process. This may involve clicking a button or submitting a request. 7. **Complete the Process:** In some cases, you may need to take additional steps to complete the deletion process, such as confirming your decision via email or contacting 23andMe customer support. **Important Considerations:** * **Irreversibility:** Deleting your 23andMe data is typically irreversible. Once your data is deleted, you will no longer be able to access your reports, ancestry information, or other services. * **Turnaround Time:** The deletion process may take several weeks to complete. During this time, your data may still be stored on 23andMe's servers. * **Aggregated Data:** Even after you delete your personal data, 23andMe may retain aggregated and anonymized data for research purposes. This type of data does not identify you personally. ### Alternatives to Deletion: Data Management Options If you are concerned about privacy but don't want to completely lose access to your 23andMe results, you may consider alternative data management options: * **Download Your Raw Data:** 23andMe allows you to download your raw genetic data. This allows you to keep a copy of your genetic information even if you delete it from their servers. You can then use this data with other third-party services, although it's essential to research the privacy practices of these services carefully. * **Limit Data Sharing:** You can adjust your privacy settings within your 23andMe account to limit the types of data you share with other users, researchers, or third-party partners. * **Opt Out of Research:** You can choose to opt out of participating in 23andMe's research programs. This will prevent your data from being used for research purposes. * **Review and Update Privacy Settings:** Regularly review and update your privacy settings to ensure they reflect your current preferences. ### Broader Implications of 23andMe's Situation 23andMe's bankruptcy and potential sale highlight the broader challenges and uncertainties surrounding the direct-to-consumer genetic testing industry. These challenges include: * **Data Security:** The vast amount of sensitive genetic data collected by these companies makes them attractive targets for cyberattacks and data breaches. * **Data Privacy:** Users need to be aware of how their data is being used and protected, and they should have control over their data. * **Ethical Considerations:** The use of genetic data raises a number of ethical considerations, including the potential for discrimination and the impact on privacy. * **Regulatory Oversight:** The regulatory landscape for direct-to-consumer genetic testing is still evolving, and there is a need for clear and consistent rules to protect consumers. The 23andMe situation also reflects a broader trend of increasing data privacy awareness among consumers. People are becoming more concerned about how their personal data is collected, used, and shared, and they are demanding more control over their information. ### What to Do Now If you are a 23andMe user, now is a good time to review your account settings, understand your data management options, and make a decision about whether to delete your data. Consider your comfort level with sharing your genetic information with a company that is facing financial instability and potential acquisition. If you have concerns about privacy, deleting your data may be the best option for you. Regardless of your decision, it's important to stay informed about developments in the direct-to-consumer genetic testing industry and to advocate for strong data privacy protections. The future of genetic testing depends on building trust and ensuring that consumers have control over their personal information. Deleting **23andMe** **data** may seem drastic, but **amid** the **company's** uncertain future, it offers a sense of control over your genetic privacy. This article provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.