Customers urged to consider deleting their data after genetic testing company collapses

Summary

Genetic testing company 23andMe has filed for bankruptcy, putting the DNA data of millions of users at risk of being sold.

Privacy advocates have urged consumers to delete their data amid fears it could be sold to data brokers or used for targeted advertising.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta advised customers to consider deleting their profiles after the company’s share price crash heightened concerns.

CEO Anne Wojcicki reportedly rejected three takeover bids before the bankruptcy filing, raising questions about the company’s future and data protection.

  • gibmiser@lemmy.world
    11·
    5 days ago

    I was the holdout. They bought me a kit and it felt pointless resisting.

    Guess I was right and too much of a slug to stand up for it.

    • Vox@lemmy.world
      8·
      5 days ago

      They’re saying if you were the only holdup it doesn’t matter. If enough of your semi-close relatives submitted their DNA, yours can be extrapolated reasonably accurately from that.

    • Mouselemming@sh.itjust.works
      2·
      5 days ago

      Might want to tell the fam to delete theirs, maybe help them through the process. Bonta’s announcement has a list of the steps, but only you know which of your family will need help.