California AG Pushes 23andMe Users to Erase DNA Amid Bankruptcy Woes

California Attorney General Rob Bonta is pressing residents to delete their genetic data from 23andMe as the company files for bankruptcy protection. The biotech firm known for its DNA testing kits faces an uncertain future after years of financial struggles. Bonta warns that the sensitive data of 15 million customers could be at risk if the company collapses.

23andMe once a Silicon Valley darling saw its stock plummet from a 2021 peak of 320 dollars per share to just 96 cents. The firm filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy late Sunday prompting fears over data security. Bonta cites state laws like the Genetic Information Privacy Act giving users the right to demand data deletion.

Customers can log into their 23andMe accounts and navigate to settings to erase their profiles and DNA records. They must confirm the request via an email link to ensure all data and stored samples are destroyed. This process stems from California’s robust privacy framework protecting consumer rights.

The company amassed genetic profiles from millions through saliva-based kits promising ancestry and health insights. Critics have long warned that such data could end up in the wrong hands if 23andMe faltered. Bonta’s alert echoes those concerns as the firm’s fate hangs in the balance.

23andMe insists it will maintain operations during bankruptcy and claims customer data remains secure. However Bonta argues the risk is too high given the company’s 11 million dollar valuation a steep drop from 6 billion. He urges swift action to safeguard privacy before any potential data breach.

Past incidents like the 2023 hack exposing 6.9 million users’ info fuel skepticism about 23andMe’s assurances. Law enforcement has used similar DNA databases to solve cold cases raising ethical questions. Californians now face a choice between keeping their profiles or wiping them clean.

Some experts say deleting data may not fully erase risks if it was already shared with third parties. 23andMe’s opt-in research program allowed data use by outside firms with consent. Bonta’s warning highlights the need for vigilance as the company restructures under court supervision.

The collapse of 23andMe could set a precedent for how genetic data is handled in corporate failures. Bonta’s proactive stance reflects growing unease over privacy in the digital age. For now users must weigh convenience against the chance their DNA could surface elsewhere.