23andMe’s Bankruptcy Puts 15 Million Users’ DNA Data on Auction Block

23andMe, a prominent genetic testing company, has declared bankruptcy, leading to the auctioning off of sensitive DNA data belonging to over 15 million users. The California Attorney General, Rob Bonta, has issued an urgent consumer alert to 23andMe customers, warning them about the potential risks associated with the sale of their genetic information. The company's financial troubles have raised concerns about data privacy and security, especially given the sensitive nature of the data involved.

The bankruptcy filing comes after years of financial struggles for 23andMe, exacerbated by legal battles over data breaches and privacy concerns. The auction of the DNA data is set to proceed unless a buyer emerges to acquire the company's assets, which include the extensive genetic database. This situation has sparked a broader discussion on the ethical implications of selling personal genetic information without explicit user consent.

The fallout from 23andMe's bankruptcy has also impacted its founder, Anne Wojcicki, and shareholders, who are facing significant financial losses. Customers are left to navigate the uncertainty of their data's future, prompting calls for stronger regulations to protect genetic privacy in the biotech industry.

• 23andMe
• Anne Wojcicki
• California
• Rob Bonta

Detailed

23andMe’s Bankruptcy Puts 15 Million Users’ DNA Info on Auction Block

2 weeks ago

- bloomberg

Attorney General Bonta Urgently Issues Consumer Alert for 23andMe Customers

2 weeks ago

- oag

As 23andMe goes bankrupt, millions of people’s DNA data is up for sale

2 weeks ago

- nbcnews

23andMe’s bankruptcy is the worst thing that could happen to just about everyone involved

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- statnews

Genetic testing firm 23andMe files for bankruptcy

2 weeks ago

- cnn

Related issues news

Can I delete my DNA from 23andme?

Scroll to 23andMe Data and then click View. At this point, you can choose to download a copy of your genetic information. Then scroll to Delete Data and click Permanently Delete Data. Once you initiate the process, you'll receive an email from 23andMe to confirm.

How do I delete my 23andme account?

'If, at any time, you are no longer interested in participating in our Services, you may delete your 23andMe account directly within your Account Settings,' the company states on its website. That requires you to log in to your account and submit a request.

Does 23andme sell your DNA?

California's Attorney General recently issued an urgent customer alert, outlining some of the actions customers can take to protect their data before 23andMe sells it off to the highest bidder.