DNA testing firm users urged to delete data as it files for bankruptcy protection in the US

DNA Testing Firm 23andMe Urges Users to Delete Data Amid Bankruptcy Filing

Users of DNA testing service 23andMe are being advised to remove their personal information after the company sought bankruptcy protection in the United States.

The California-based 23andMe, previously endorsed by Oprah Winfrey, is estimated to have distributed over 250,000 kits in the UK.

Data Security Concerns Intensify

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has recommended that 23andMe users ‘delete their data and destroy any samples of genetic material held by the company.’ This recommendation follows apprehensions that sensitive details could be compromised and potentially surface on the dark web.

Expert Calls for Account Closure

Meredith Whittaker, president of the encrypted messaging application Signal, has also encouraged customers to close their accounts. She stated, ‘This action may not fully resolve the issue, but they [23andMe] assert they will delete a portion of your data.’

Leadership Change Follows Financial Strain and Data Breach

The genetics company also announced the resignation of co-founder and Chief Executive Anne Wojcicki. This leadership change occurs as the firm grapples with substantial financial losses and a significant data security incident.

Tests: 23andMe, founded by Anne Wojcicki (pictured with ex-husband Sergey Brin) is estimated to have sold more than 250,000 kits in Britain

DIY Investing Platforms

Affiliate links: If you utilize a product through these links, this publication may receive a commission. These offers are selected by our editorial team for their perceived value. This does not compromise our editorial impartiality.

Compare the best investing account for you

Some links within this article are affiliate links. Clicking them may result in a small commission for us, supporting the provision of This Is Money as a free service. Our articles are not written for product promotion, and commercial relationships do not influence our editorial independence.