The Rise and Fall of 23andMe: What It Means for Your Data
Your data will be sold
In 2006, 23andMe launched as a pioneer in personal DNA testing. For a fee, anyone could learn about their ancestry, health risks, and genetic traits. The company quickly became a household name and collected data from over 14 million users worldwide. But what started as a success story has become a cautionary tale.
The Downfall of 23andMe
The company’s decline stems from a mix of business missteps and privacy concerns:
• Weak Business Model: Most users only buy one kit, limiting long-term revenue. Partnerships like its $300 million deal with GlaxoSmithKline helped for a while but didn’t solve the underlying problem.
• Major Data Breach: In late 2023, hackers exposed the personal data of about 6.9 million users. Names, birth years, genders, and ancestry info were leaked. Trust in 23andMe took a huge hit.
• Leadership Shakeup: In 2024, all independent directors resigned after clashing with co-founder Anne Wojcicki over strategy. She later stepped down as CEO but stayed on the board.
• Bankruptcy Filing: In early 2025, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Wojcicki said she planned to buy back the business, but what happens next is uncertain.
What Happens to Your DNA Data?
Bankruptcy raises serious questions: What happens to your data when a company goes under? Could it be sold? The answer, worryingly, is yes.
In bankruptcy, a company’s assets—including user data—can be sold to pay creditors. That means your genetic profile could end up in the hands of another company, possibly one with different privacy rules. Laws like GINA offer some protection, but they don’t cover everything, like life insurance or long-term care policies.
How to Delete Your 23andMe Data
If you’ve used 23andMe and want to protect your privacy, you can take steps to delete your data and request that your saliva sample be destroyed.
1. Download your data (optional)
Before deletion, you may want to save your results:
• Log in to your account.
• Go to “Settings” > “23andMe Data.”
• Choose to download raw data or reports.
2. Permanently delete your account and data
• In “Settings,” scroll to “Delete Data.”
• Click “Permanently Delete Data.”
• Confirm the request via email.
3. Destroy your saliva sample
• Still in “Settings,” go to “Preferences.”
• Request destruction of your biological sample.
4. Revoke research consent
• Under “Research and Product Consents,” withdraw participation if you previously agreed.
Note: Deletion is final and can’t be undone. Some information may still be kept to meet legal requirements. Processing may take time, and in some regions, like California, additional legal rights may apply.
For issues or questions, contact: privacy@23andme.com
Final Thoughts
23andMe promised to unlock your DNA’s secrets. But its downfall shows the risks of handing over sensitive data to private companies. If you’ve ever used their service, now is the time to think carefully about your next move—and who you trust with your genetic information.