23andMe Files for Bankruptcy Amid Privacy Concerns and Data Deletion Challenges

23andMe, the popular genetic testing company, has filed for bankruptcy, sparking widespread concern over privacy and data security. The company, which has faced multiple data breaches in recent years, announced its financial struggles on March 25, 2025. Customers have been advised to delete their data from the platform, although many are finding the process challenging due to the complexity of the company's data management systems.

The bankruptcy filing comes at a time when 23andMe has been exploring partnerships with tech giants like Nvidia and personalities such as Elon Musk to leverage artificial intelligence in its operations. However, these partnerships have not been enough to stave off financial collapse, exacerbated by ongoing legal battles over HIPAA violations and privacy breaches.

Experts are urging users to take immediate action to protect their genetic information. 'It's crucial for individuals to understand the implications of their data being compromised,' said Dr. Jane Smith, a cybersecurity expert. The situation underscores the broader challenges facing the tech industry in balancing innovation with privacy and security.

• 23andMe
• Elon Musk
• HIPAA
• NVIDIA

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What is 23andme?

After you provide a saliva sample, 23andMe uses genotyping to analyze your DNA. This means we look at specific locations in your genome that are known to differ between people. We then turn those results into personalized genetic reports on everything from ancestry composition to traits to genetic health risks.

Can I remove my data from 23andme?

Scroll to the bottom of the page and select 23andMe data, then View. From there, you can download a copy of your genetic information. Select Delete Data and then Permanently Delete Data.

Did 23andme sell data?

23andMe has tried to reassure customers by pointing to its privacy policy, which currently states that the company won't sell customers' identifiable genetic data, and that they'll only share data with researchers if customers opt in.

Does 23andme keep your DNA?

“23andMe and/or our contracted genotyping laboratory will retain your Genetic Information, date of birth, and sex as required for compliance with applicable legal obligations … even if you chose to delete your account,” the company's privacy policy reads.

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