Archive · 11 Jun 2025
23andMe Bankruptcy Raises Data Privacy Concerns for Users
23andMe, a company that tests your DNA, is in financial trouble.
They filed for bankruptcy, meaning they might sell the company.
Your DNA data is very important and sensitive.
Some people are worried about what will happen to their DNA information if 23andMe is sold.
You can delete your data from 23andMe if you want.
There is a lawsuit trying to prevent them from selling your data without your permission.
Because the company is struggling, there might be fewer people to protect your information from hackers.
Experts suggest you can move your money from one bank to another, but your DNA is not transferable.
They have been hacked before.
23andMe, a DNA testing company, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
27 states and D.C. sued to prevent the sale of customer genetic data without consent.
The company aims to sell assets to pay off debt, including possibly customer data.
Customers can delete their data from their 23andMe accounts.
Concerns exist regarding data security due to past breaches and bankruptcy.
- Who
- 23andMe, a DNA testing company, is the primary entity, and customers are affected.
- What
- 23andMe, a DNA testing company, is facing bankruptcy and potential sale of assets, including customer genetic data. States are suing to block data sale without consent.
- When
- 23andMe filed for bankruptcy in March, and a lawsuit was filed Monday.
- Where
- San Francisco and Sunnyvale, California, where 23andMe has office space, is where leases are being rejected.
- Why
- 23andMe filed for bankruptcy due to financial difficulties.
Customers
23andMe/Potential Buyers
Data Ownership and Use
Customers
Customers want their genetic data protected from potential misuse or sale without consent.
23andMe/Potential Buyers
23andMe is seeking to sell its assets, which may include genetic data, to address bankruptcy proceedings.
Data Security Concerns
Customers
Customers are concerned about data security due to past breaches and bankruptcy-related staff reductions.
23andMe/Potential Buyers
23andMe states they prioritize user privacy and will require any buyer to comply with data protection laws, but the company is in a financial crisis and vulnerable.
- Founded
- 2006
- Bankruptcy Filing
- March
- Lawsuit Filers
- 27 states + D.C.
- Bankruptcy Type
- Chapter 11
- Customers affected by 2023 breach
- Nearly 7 million