23andMe, the well-known genetic testing company, has recently made headlines due to its bankruptcy filing and growing concerns over customer data protection. If you’ve ever used 23andMe for ancestry or health insights, you may be wondering what happens to your genetic data now.
23andMe Files for Bankruptcy: What Happened?
On March 23, 2025, 23andMe filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S. The company had been struggling for years, especially after the 23andMe scandal in 2023 when hackers stole the personal and genetic data of 6.9 million users.
Other major reasons behind 23andMe’s bankruptcy include:
✅ Falling demand for at-home DNA kits
✅ A plunging stock price (down 50% to $0.88 on March 24, 2025)
✅ Financial losses and lawsuits
Adding to the chaos, CEO Anne Wojcicki stepped down, with Joe Selsavage taking over as interim CEO. Now, with a 45-day auction planned to sell 23andMe’s assets, customers are asking: Who will own their DNA data next?
Is Your 23andMe Genetic Data at Risk?
When you use 23andMe, your DNA is stored in its database. Unlike medical companies, 23andMe isn’t covered by strict U.S. privacy laws like HIPAA. This means if the company gets sold, your genetic data could end up with a new owner—one who may not follow the same privacy policies.
Even California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a consumer alert on March 21, 2025, urging users to delete their 23andMe data to protect their privacy. He stated:
> “Given 23andMe’s financial distress, I remind Californians to consider directing 23andMe to delete their data and destroy any samples.”
With concerns rising over how a new buyer might use the data, experts recommend taking action ASAP.
How to Delete Your 23andMe Data: Step-by-Step Guide
Want to protect your privacy? Follow these simple steps to delete your 23andMe data permanently.
✅ Step 1: Log In to Your Account
Visit 23andMe.com and log in.
✅ Step 2: Go to Settings
Click on your profile and select Settings.
✅ Step 3: Locate the “23andMe Data” Section
Scroll down until you find 23andMe Data.
✅ Step 4: Request Data Deletion
Click “View”, then select “Permanently Delete Data”.
If you want a backup, download a copy of your genetic data first.
✅ Step 5: Confirm Deletion
Follow the prompts to confirm your request.
Bonus Tip: Delete Your DNA Sample
If you’ve sent a saliva sample, you can request its destruction by emailing:
📩 [email protected]
Important Note: 23andMe may keep some data if required by law, but deleting your account removes most of it.
The 23andMe Scandal: A Major Turning Point
The 23andMe scandal of 2023 was a major blow to customer trust. Hackers stole personal and genetic data from 6.9 million users through a credential stuffing attack that lasted five months.
As a result, in September 2024, 23andMe settled a lawsuit for $30 million and promised three years of security monitoring for affected users. However, the damage was done—many customers lost trust, leading to financial struggles and, eventually, bankruptcy.
What Happens Now That 23andMe Is Bankrupt?
With 23andMe bankrupt, the company has secured $35 million to keep operating during its 45-day asset auction. But what happens after that?
🔹 If a buyer purchases 23andMe’s database, they may have different rules on how your DNA data is used.
🔹 Privacy laws in the U.S. are weak, meaning your genetic data could be sold to researchers, marketers, or even law enforcement.
🔹 Reports from NPR News and NBC News suggest that customers should delete their data now to avoid future risks.
Should You Delete Your 23andMe Data?
Experts highly recommend deleting your 23andMe data to prevent potential misuse.
The Washington Post stated on March 24, 2025:
> “If you’re one of the 15 million people who shared your DNA with 23andMe, it’s time to delete your data.”
While 23andMe claims any new owner must follow privacy laws, the company’s history of security breaches has left customers doubtful. If you value privacy, it’s best to delete your data now rather than risk losing control over it later.
Final Thoughts on 23andMe Bankruptcy and Data Privacy
The 23andMe bankruptcy is a wake-up call about the risks of sharing genetic data online. Whether you’re worried about data privacy, the 23andMe scandal, or who will own your DNA next, the best move is to stay informed and act fast.
Key Takeaways:
✔ 23andMe filed for bankruptcy on March 23, 2025
✔ Your DNA data could be sold to a new buyer
✔ Privacy experts recommend deleting 23andMe data ASAP
✔ Follow our step-by-step guide to delete your data now
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