23andMe customers who once turned over the most personal form of information to the company — their own genetic data — may want it back after the personal genomics and biotech startup declared bankruptcy on Sunday.
The 19-year-old company is seeking a buyer, which means that if it is not deleted, customer data could be transferred to any company that acquires 23andMe.
California-based 23andMe has more than 15 million customers worldwide for whom it provides information on genetic ancestry and health. The company also has a therapeutics arm, which conducts research and works to develop treatments for a range of conditions and diseases.
Even before 23andMe had sought bankruptcy protection, California Attorney General Rob Bonta on Friday urged customers to immediately delete “the trove of sensitive consumer data” the company has collected, including samples of people’s genetic material.
How do I delete my 23andMe data?
23andMe states that if it’s involved in a bankruptcy or sale, customers’ personal data may also be sold or transferred. It also provides a relatively straightforward way for customers to delete their data and request that their genetic samples be destroyed.
“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. The company will then send an an email asking users to confirm the deletion request. You must reply in the affirmative for the deletion process to be completed.
How to delete your 23andMe data
- Log in to your account
- Go to “settings”
- Scroll to “23andMe data”
- Click “view”
- Scroll to “delete data”
- Click “permanently delete data”
- Confirm your request
Note that you may also download a copy of your genetic data before deleting it from 23andMe’s database.
How to delete your 23andMe test sample
- Log in to your account
- Go to “settings”
- Go to “preferences”
Users can also opt to let the company share their personal data. Currently, a handful of states have passed privacy laws that would require customers’ consent before their genetic data is transferred. Customers can withdraw such permission under “Research and Product Consents” on the account settings page.
Megan CerulloMegan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.
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