In a digital age where we can uncover our ancestry with a simple cheek swab, companies like 23andMe have become household names. But recent headlines are sending shockwaves through both the tech and health sectors: 23andMe collapses, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. This raises an urgent and emotional question for millions of customers—what happens to your DNA now?
If you’ve ever sent a DNA sample to 23andMe, you may be wondering if your sensitive genetic information is at risk. And you’re not alone. With over 15 million customers, the company’s downfall has triggered widespread concern about the fate of personal genetic data and privacy.
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What Is 23andMe and Why Does It Matter?
23andMe is a personal genomics and biotechnology company that gained popularity for offering at-home DNA testing kits. Customers could explore their ancestry, traits, health risks, and even potential drug responses. All they had to do was spit into a tube, send it back, and wait a few weeks.
Since its founding in 2006, 23andMe became a leader in direct-to-consumer genetic testing. But like many tech-centric companies, it eventually faced challenges scaling its business model—especially after controversies involving data privacy and declining test sales post-pandemic.
Why Did 23andMe Collapse?
In March 2025, 23andMe filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing operational difficulties, increased legal costs from data breaches, and shrinking demand for DNA tests. The departure of CEO Anne Wojcicki marked a turning point in the company’s leadership and vision.
Chapter 11 doesn’t mean 23andMe is disappearing overnight. It means the company is seeking to restructure its debts and possibly sell parts of its business. But during this uncertain phase, data privacy becomes a critical concern.
What Happens to Your DNA Now?
Here’s where things get complicated. 23andMe stores genetic data, personal health information, and saliva samples. This data could be considered a valuable asset during bankruptcy proceedings.
According to Axios, while the company has historically promised not to sell data without explicit consent, its privacy policy also states that in the event of bankruptcy, personal data may be sold or transferred.
While unsettling, this is not illegal. That’s because HIPAA laws, which protect medical information, do not apply to companies like 23andMe. Customers are seen as consumers, not patients, limiting regulatory protections.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Genetic Data
If you’re concerned (and you should be), here are some steps you can take immediately:
Step 1: Delete Your Account
Log in to your 23andMe account and navigate to Settings > Delete Your Data. You can request that both your digital data and saliva sample be destroyed.
Step 2: Request Sample Destruction
After deleting your data, make sure to check the option that instructs 23andMe to physically destroy your saliva sample. This can prevent future unauthorized testing.
Step 3: Contact Customer Support
Use the official customer care page for help or confirmation. Document your communication for your records.
Step 4: Stay Informed
Keep an eye on reliable news sources and official 23andMe announcements to track changes in data policies during the restructuring.
Step 5: Watch Out for Scams
A major company collapse is a perfect opportunity for phishing attacks. Do not click on suspicious links claiming to be from 23andMe.
Real-World Risks of DNA Data Leaks
You might ask, “Why would anyone want my DNA?”
Genetic data is incredibly valuable. Insurance companies, pharma firms, law enforcement, and even hackers can find uses for this kind of information. Imagine your DNA being sold to a company developing drugs—or worse, used to profile you in ways you never agreed to.
In 2023, 23andMe suffered a cyberattack that exposed personal data of 6.9 million customers. This isn’t a hypothetical risk; it’s a documented history.
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The Legal Landscape
HIPAA covers health records in traditional medical settings. But 23andMe is not a healthcare provider—it’s a commercial service. That means your genetic information doesn’t have the same legal protections.
Some states like California have strong consumer privacy laws under CCPA, but these still leave room for interpretation. Unless stronger federal legislation is passed, your genetic privacy is still vulnerable.
For a comprehensive overview of how DNA data is (and isn’t) protected, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s consumer privacy page.
What Will Happen to 23andMe’s Database?
The 23andMe database includes:
- DNA from over 15 million individuals
- Family tree and relative-matching data
- Health and ancestry reports
- Survey responses on lifestyle, behavior, and health
Whether this data will be sold, licensed, or siloed is still unknown. But unless you explicitly opted out of research and third-party sharing, your information might be included in any future transactions.
Lessons for the Tech and Health Industries
This situation offers critical takeaways for both the biotechnology and tech sectors:
- Transparency Matters: Users need to clearly understand how their data is handled.
- Regulation Gaps Are Risky: Companies operating in legal gray areas can create long-term trust issues.
- Digital Health Requires Oversight: As tech and health merge, governments must step up regulatory scrutiny.
What Should Policymakers and Consumers Demand Next?
As awareness of this issue grows, both citizens and lawmakers should advocate for:
- Federal legislation to define how genetic data can be stored, shared, and deleted.
- Mandatory data deletion options post-service discontinuation.
- Clear notification policies before any transfer or sale of sensitive information.
- Penalties for companies that violate their own data privacy promises.
Consumer trust is fragile. Restoring and maintaining that trust will require meaningful legal and ethical reform.
(FAQs)
1. Can I delete my DNA data from 23andMe?
Yes. You can delete your account and data through your account settings. You can also request the destruction of your saliva sample.
2. Is my data automatically safe because of encryption?
No. While 23andMe encrypts your data, encryption does not protect against policy-based data transfers or sales.
3. Will 23andMe inform me if my data is sold?
Probably not directly. It depends on the buyer, the terms of sale, and regulatory requirements.
4. What if I signed up years ago and forgot?
You can still log in and request deletion. If you’ve lost access, contact customer support with your registered email.
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