How to Delete Your 23andMe Data – Business Insider
If you’ve ever used 23andMe to uncover family secrets or health insights, you might want to check your account settings ASAP. The company just filed for bankruptcy—and your genetic data could soon be sold to the highest bidder.
Yep, you read that right. 15 million users’ DNA profiles might soon belong to someone else. And while 23andMe promises it won’t misuse your info, a new owner could change the rules overnight.
So, how do you protect your data? And why does this even matter? Let’s break it down in plain English.
Why Is 23andMe Selling Customer Data?
23andMe has been struggling financially for years, and now it’s officially filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. That means the company is looking for a buyer—and your genetic info could be part of the deal.
Here’s the Problem:
- Current privacy policies say they won’t sell identifiable data… but those rules can change under new ownership.
- Life insurance companies, employers, and even law enforcement could be interested in this data.
- Federal protections (GINA) stop health insurers from discrimination, but life insurers? Not so much.
California’s Attorney General, Rob Bonta, is already urging users to delete their accounts, warning that a new owner might not play by the same rules.
How to Delete Your 23andMe Data (Step-by-Step)
If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of your DNA floating around in a corporate sale, here’s how to wipe your data for good:
1. Log In to Your 23andMe Account
Go to 23andme.com and sign in.
2. Go to Settings
- Click on your profile icon (top right).
- Select “Settings.”
3. Download Your Data (Optional but Recommended)
Before deleting, you might want a copy of your genetic info.
- Scroll to “23andMe Data” → Click “View.”
- Select “Download” to save your raw DNA data.
4. Permanently Delete Your Data
- Scroll to “Delete Data” → Click “Permanently Delete Data.”
- Confirm your choice. Boom—your genetic info is gone.
Bonus Steps:
- Delete your stored saliva sample (under “Preferences”).
- Opt out of research sharing (under “Research and Product Consents”).
⚠️ Heads up: The site might be slow or glitchy (thanks to a flood of users deleting data). If it crashes, try again later.
Should You Really Worry About Your DNA Data?
Short answer: Yes, if privacy matters to you.
- Insurance companies could use genetic data to deny coverage or hike premiums.
- Law enforcement has used DNA databases to solve crimes (even if 23andMe claims they require a warrant).
- Future misuse? Once your DNA is out there, you can’t take it back.
As Anya Prince, a law professor specializing in genetic privacy, puts it:
“The new company could have a completely different ethos. Once your data is sold, you lose control.”
Final Thoughts: Act Now or Risk Losing Control
If you’ve ever used 23andMe, now’s the time to decide:
✅ Keep your data and hope the new owner respects privacy.
❌ Delete it and ensure your DNA doesn’t end up somewhere unexpected.
Since policies can change overnight, erasing your data is the only surefire way to protect it.
So, will you take action? Or roll the dice on your genetic privacy?
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