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FLORIDA - In light of 23andMe's recent bankruptcy filing, Florida's Attorney General is advising residents to take immediate steps to protect their genetic information.
On March 23, 2025, genetic testing company 23andMe filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
The company intends to continue operations during the sale process, asserting that there will be no changes to how it stores, manages, or protects customer data.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier expressed concerns regarding the security of consumers' genetic data in light of the bankruptcy.
He emphasized the importance of privacy, especially concerning individuals' DNA, and recommended that Floridians who have used 23andMe's services consider deleting their accounts and requesting the destruction of their DNA samples.
Steps to Delete 23andMe Data and DNA Samples:
- To Permanently Delete Your 23andMe Account:
- Log into your account on the 23andMe website.
- Navigate to the "Settings" section of your profile.
- Scroll to the "23andMe Data" section and click "View."
- Download your genetic data if desired.
- Scroll down to "Delete Data" and click "Permanently Delete Data."
- Confirm the request through the verification email sent by 23andMe.
- To Request Destruction of Your DNA Sample:
- Log into your account and go to "Settings."
- Click on the "Preferences" section.
- Submit a request for 23andMe to destroy your saliva and DNA sample.
- To Withdraw Consent for Data Sharing:
- Visit "Settings" in your account.
- Navigate to "Research and Product Consents."
- Withdraw consent for future use of your genetic data.
Attorney General Uthmeier highlighted that under Florida's Digital Bill of Rights, residents have the legal authority to control their personal data, including genetic information.
He urged Floridians to proactively safeguard their sensitive information and carefully consider the potential privacy risks associated with continued participation in consumer DNA services.
The Federal Trade Commission and other state attorneys general have not yet commented on potential investigations or actions in response to 23andMe's bankruptcy and the associated privacy concerns.