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With genetic testing company 23andMe filing for bankruptcy, privacy experts are raising alarms about the potential sale of sensitive DNA information. The California-based company, known for its saliva-based test kits, has entered the federal bankruptcy process to find a buyer due to ongoing financial struggles. Co-founder Anne Wojcicki has stepped down as CEO, expressing interest in purchasing the company herself, though her initial offer was rejected.
The bankruptcy follows a massive data breach in 2023 that affected nearly 7 million customer accounts. This breach, coupled with financial difficulties, has led to concerns about the future of the genetic data of over 15 million users. 23andMe assures that customer data privacy will be a priority in any sale, federal laws provide limited protection for genetic information held by private companies.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has advised residents to consider deleting their data and destroying any genetic samples stored by 23andMe. Wirecutter also recommends that concerned customers delete their data and revoke research consents. Despite the company's assurances, the lack of stringent federal regulations leaves many customers uneasy about the potential misuse of their genetic data.
23andMe has stated that it will continue operations during the bankruptcy proceedings and that customers can still delete their data. The company hopes to find a partner committed to data privacy, but the uncertainty surrounding the sale has heightened privacy concerns. In an open letter, 23andMe emphasized its dedication to customer privacy and its mission to help people understand their genetics.