The recent bankruptcy filing of 23andMe has sparked serious concerns about the future of its vast genetic database. Customers who once entrusted the company with their DNA data are now left wondering what will happen to their sensitive information. If you’re among them, now is the time to take action. Deleting your 23andMe genetic data and account could be a crucial step in protecting your privacy, especially before any potential changes in ownership or policy put its security at risk.
Privacy experts have long cautioned against sharing genetic data with private companies, citing potential risks. While 23andMe has pledged to safeguard user information, a change in ownership could lead to shifts in policy. Adding to these concerns, a major data breach in 2023 exposed millions of accounts, highlighting the importance of taking control over your DNA data. If you’re looking to permanently delete your 23andMe information, follow the steps outlined below.
Why You Should Delete Your 23andMe Data
23andMe, the DNA testing firm that helps people learn their ancestry, has filed for bankruptcy protection. pic.twitter.com/JffM25OoOI
— Pop Base (@PopBase) March 24, 2025
Genetic data is uniquely sensitive and irreplaceable. Unlike passwords or credit card numbers, your DNA cannot be changed, making it particularly vulnerable to misuse. If 23andMe is acquired, its vast database could fall into the hands of a company with different, potentially less stringent, privacy policies. By deleting your genetic data now, you reduce the risk of it being sold, shared, or exposed in future breaches.
Moreover, while states like California and Washington offer privacy protections, customers in other regions may not have the same legal safeguards. The most secure approach is to act proactively and remove your data before any potential policy shifts take effect.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Delete Your 23andMe Data
If you’re ready to delete your genetic data from 23andMe, follow these steps to ensure it’s removed from their database:
- Sign in: Visit 23andMe’s website, log in with your credentials, and navigate to your profile.
- Access Settings: Click on your profile in the upper right-hand corner and select “Settings.”
- Find Your Data: Scroll down to the “23andMe Data” section and click “View.”
- Download (Optional): If you want a copy of your genetic information, download it before proceeding.
- Request Deletion: Locate the “Delete Data” option and click “Permanently Delete Data.”
- Confirm the Request: You’ll receive a confirmation email; open it and click the provided link to finalize deletion.
- Destroy Your DNA Sample (If Applicable): If 23andMe still has your physical DNA sample, you can request its destruction under “Settings” > “Preferences.”
Once these steps are completed, 23andMe will begin the deletion process. While the company states that data removal is permanent, it’s always wise to follow up with customer support for confirmation.
How to Delete Your 23andMe Account
To delete your account and all its data:
1. Log into your account
2. Go to your profile > “Settings”
3. Scroll to “23andMe Data” > click “View”⁰
4. Select “Delete Data”⁰⁰5. Click “Permanently delete data”⁰⁰7. Follow the prompts to confirm— Jeff Jackson (@JeffJacksonNC) March 25, 2025
If you want to completely remove your presence from 23andMe, deleting your genetic data isn’t enough—you’ll also need to delete your entire account. Follow these steps:
- Under “Settings,” find the option for “Account Information.”
- Scroll down and click “Delete Your Account.”
- 23andMe will ask for confirmation before proceeding with the deletion.
- As with genetic data deletion, you’ll receive an email with a confirmation link to complete the process.
Once you delete your 23andMe account, you will lose access to all reports and features associated with the service.
What Happens After You Delete Your 23andMe Data?
According to 23andMe’s privacy policy, once you request data deletion, the company removes your information from its active database. However, they may retain some data for legal or regulatory reasons. If you have concerns, consider reaching out to their customer support team for clarification.
Additionally, if you had previously consented to research participation, 23andMe will stop using your data for future studies. However, data already included in completed studies cannot be removed.
The Risks of Keeping Your 23andMe Data on File
Even if 23andMe claims to have strict privacy policies, storing your genetic data with any company carries risks. Here are some reasons why deleting your 23andMe data is a good idea:
- Potential Sale to a New Owner: If 23andMe is acquired, the new company may not honor the same privacy commitments.
- Security Vulnerabilities: Past breaches prove that even well-known companies can fail to protect user data.
- Limited Legal Protections: While some states provide consumer rights, most users have little control over their genetic data.
By choosing to delete 23andMe data now, you eliminate the uncertainty surrounding how your information may be used in the future.
Final Thoughts
With 23andMe facing financial uncertainty and a potential change in ownership, the best way to safeguard your genetic privacy is to act now. By following the steps outlined above, you can permanently delete your 23andMe data and ensure that your DNA information remains under your control.
The deletion process is straightforward, but it requires careful attention to confirmation steps. Whether your concerns stem from privacy risks, security breaches, or shifts in company policies, taking proactive action now is the safest way to protect your sensitive genetic data.
Ready to take control of your privacy? Follow these steps to delete your 23andMe data and secure your personal genetic information today.
Featured image: @AFPost/X
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