California Attorney General Urges 23andMe Customers to Delete Genetic Data Amid Bankruptcy Filing

In a significant development, California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a strong recommendation to customers of the genetic testing company 23andMe, urging them to delete their genetic data following the company’s recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. This announcement raises critical concerns about privacy, data security, and consumer rights in the rapidly evolving field of genetic testing.

The Context: 23andMe and Its Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

23andMe is a well-known player in the direct-to-consumer genetic testing market, providing individuals with insights into their ancestry and genetic health risks. However, the company has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including financial difficulties that culminated in its filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This legal process allows a company to reorganize its debts while continuing to operate, but it also raises questions about the management and protection of consumer data.

Urgent Call for Action: Deleting Genetic Data

Attorney General Bonta’s warning comes at a crucial time. He has emphasized the importance of consumer control over personal data, particularly genetic information that can reveal sensitive health and ancestry details. In his statement, Bonta encouraged 23andMe customers to take proactive steps to safeguard their privacy by requesting the deletion of their genetic data from the company’s databases. This call to action highlights the need for consumers to be vigilant about their data privacy, especially in light of the uncertainties surrounding the company’s future.

California’s Robust Privacy Laws

California is known for its strong privacy laws, which are designed to protect consumers’ personal information. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA) empower consumers to manage their data and demand transparency from companies regarding how their information is used. Bonta’s statement reinforces the notion that individuals have the right to control their genetic data, especially during a tumultuous period for a company like 23andMe.

The Importance of Data Privacy

As genetic testing becomes increasingly popular, the importance of data privacy cannot be overstated. Genetic information is unique and personal, containing details that can impact an individual’s health, family planning, and more. The unauthorized use or exposure of this data can have severe consequences, including discrimination by employers or insurance companies. Therefore, consumers must be proactive in understanding their rights and the implications of sharing their genetic data with companies like 23andMe.

Consumer Rights and Responsibilities

In light of Attorney General Bonta’s call to action, it is crucial for 23andMe customers to understand their rights regarding data privacy. Consumers have the right to request the deletion of their data and to seek information on how their data is being used. This empowerment is vital in a landscape where data breaches and misuse are prevalent. The onus is on consumers to take control of their personal information, ensuring that it is managed responsibly and ethically.

Steps to Delete Your Genetic Data

For customers of 23andMe considering the deletion of their genetic data, the process typically involves a few straightforward steps:

1. Log into Your Account: Access your 23andMe account using your credentials.
2. Navigate to Data Settings: Locate the settings related to your account and data preferences.
3. Request Data Deletion: Follow the instructions provided to request the deletion of your genetic data. This may involve filling out a form or contacting customer support directly.
4. Confirm Deletion: Ensure you receive confirmation that your data has been deleted, providing you with peace of mind regarding your privacy.
   

   The Future of Genetic Testing and Data Privacy
   

   As 23andMe navigates its bankruptcy proceedings, the future of genetic testing and the management of personal data remains uncertain. The company must address its financial challenges while also prioritizing the privacy and security of its customers’ data. This situation serves as a critical reminder for all consumers to stay informed and proactive about their rights in the digital age.

   Conclusion
   

   The recent warning from California Attorney General Rob Bonta underscores the urgency for 23andMe customers to consider their privacy options amid the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. With California’s robust privacy laws backing consumers, individuals have the power to take control of their genetic data. As the landscape of genetic testing evolves, prioritizing data privacy will be essential for consumers to protect themselves from potential risks associated with their personal information.

   In summary, as consumers engage with genetic testing companies, they should remain vigilant about their data rights and take appropriate action to safeguard their genetic information. The situation with 23andMe serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of data privacy in today’s technology-driven world.

NEW: CA Attorney General Rob Bonta is urgently telling 23andMe customers to delete their data as the company files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Bonta is urging customers to “take control and request that a company delete their genetic data.”

“California has robust privacy laws… pic.twitter.com/MdQrFnLAXl

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) March 24, 2025

NEW: CA Attorney General Rob Bonta is Urgently Telling 23andMe Customers to Delete Their Data as the Company Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

In a striking move, California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued an urgent warning to customers of 23andMe, the popular genetic testing service. With the company recently filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, Bonta is advocating for users to take decisive action by deleting their genetic data. This development highlights significant concerns surrounding data privacy and the implications of using genetic testing services.

Bonta is Urging Customers to “Take Control and Request That a Company Delete Their Genetic Data”

The call to action from Bonta is more than just a recommendation; it’s a clarion call for consumers to regain control over their personal information. As users of 23andMe, individuals have entrusted the company with sensitive genetic data, which can reveal a lot about their health, ancestry, and predispositions to certain diseases. With the company’s financial troubles, the potential for data mismanagement or breaches becomes a real concern.

Bonta’s statement emphasizes the importance of awareness regarding one’s digital footprint. “Customers need to understand their rights and the power they hold over their data,” he said. In California, robust privacy laws empower consumers to request the deletion of their data from companies, a crucial step in protecting personal information. The Attorney General’s office has been proactive in educating the public about these rights, advocating for a culture of privacy and data security.

“California Has Robust Privacy Laws”

California has long been at the forefront of privacy legislation, establishing regulations that give consumers more authority over their personal data. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is a prime example, allowing residents to know what personal information is being collected, how it is used, and the ability to request its deletion. This legal framework is essential, especially in light of recent events surrounding 23andMe.

The CCPA not only protects individuals but also fosters a culture of accountability among businesses. Companies like 23andMe, which collect extensive personal data, are required to comply with these regulations. Thus, consumers in California can feel empowered to exercise their rights, ensuring that their genetic information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands or become a liability.

Why Should 23andMe Customers Delete Their Data?

Aside from the immediate financial instability facing 23andMe, there are several compelling reasons for customers to consider deleting their genetic data. Here are a few key points to ponder:

1. **Data Security Risks**: With any company facing bankruptcy, the risk of data breaches increases dramatically. Sensitive genetic data can be exploited in various ways, from identity theft to unauthorized health profiling.

2. **Control Over Personal Information**: Deleting your data means taking control of your personal information. In an age where data is often treated as a commodity, asserting your rights can help mitigate potential risks.

3. **Changing Corporate Landscape**: The landscape of genetic testing services is rapidly evolving. With new players entering the market and established companies facing challenges, the reliability of any one service can fluctuate. Deleting your data now could prevent complications down the line.

4. **Peace of Mind**: Knowing that your sensitive information is no longer in the hands of a struggling company can provide significant peace of mind. It’s never too late to prioritize your privacy and security.

The Importance of Data Privacy Awareness

As technology continues to advance, the narrative around data privacy is shifting. Consumers are becoming more aware of the implications of sharing personal information, especially regarding genetic data. Bonta’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the potential consequences of using genetic testing services.

Many people may not realize that genetic data can be used beyond its intended purpose. It can be sold to third parties, used for research without consent, or even exposed in the event of a data breach. This highlights the need for consumers to be vigilant and proactive about their data.

Bonta’s emphasis on taking control is particularly relevant in today’s digital landscape, where data is often collected without explicit consent or understanding. By urging customers to delete their genetic data, he’s advocating for a more informed and empowered consumer base.

What Are the Next Steps for 23andMe Customers?

If you’re a 23andMe customer, you might be wondering what your next steps should be. Here are some actionable steps to consider:

1. **Review Your Account**: Log into your 23andMe account and review the data you’ve shared. Understanding what information is on file is the first step in making an informed decision.

2. **Understand Your Rights**: Familiarize yourself with California’s privacy laws and your rights as a consumer. The CCPA provides clear guidelines on how to request the deletion of your data.

3. **Request Data Deletion**: If you decide to proceed, follow the necessary steps to request that 23andMe delete your genetic data. This process is designed to be straightforward, and it’s your right to take this action.

4. **Stay Informed**: Keep an eye on developments regarding 23andMe and the broader genetic testing industry. Changes in legislation, company policies, or new privacy concerns can arise, and being informed will help you make the best decisions for your privacy.

Conclusion

The situation surrounding 23andMe and the call to action from Attorney General Rob Bonta serves as a critical reminder of the importance of data privacy in the age of technology. With the company filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, customers must be vigilant and proactive in protecting their genetic data.

By understanding their rights and taking the necessary steps to delete their information, individuals can safeguard their personal data against potential threats. As we navigate this evolving landscape, it’s essential to prioritize privacy and make informed decisions about our genetic information.

In a world where data privacy is often an afterthought, let’s take a cue from Bonta’s urgent warning and ensure that our personal information remains just that—personal.