Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown has issued a consumer alert following the recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing of genetic testing company 23andMe. The alert emphasizes concerns regarding the protection of consumers’ sensitive genetic information during the company’s financial restructuring
23andMe, known for its direct-to-consumer DNA testing services, filed for bankruptcy on March 23, 2025, after facing financial challenges and a significant data breach in 2023 that compromised the personal information of approximately seven million users. Despite the bankruptcy proceedings, the company has stated its intention to continue operations and has assured customers that they retain the ability to delete their data and accounts.
Attorney General Brown advises Maryland residents to consider deleting their 23andMe accounts to safeguard their personal information. He underscores the sensitivity of genetic data and the potential risks associated with its exposure or misuse
To delete a 23andMe account and associated data, users can follow these steps:
- Log into your 23andMe account.
- Navigate to the “Account Settings” section.
- Under “Preferences,” withdraw consent for research participation if previously granted.
- Proceed to delete your account and data as per the instructions provided.
Detailed guidance is available on 23andMe’s customer care page
It’s important to note that while deleting your account removes personal data from 23andMe’s active databases, some information may be retained to comply with legal obligations. Additionally, if you have consented to share your genetic data with third-party researchers, withdrawing that consent is a separate step that should be completed before account deletion.
The bankruptcy proceedings may lead to the transfer or sale of 23andMe’s assets, including genetic data. Privacy experts have expressed concerns about how consumer information will be handled during this process. While 23andMe has committed to maintaining data privacy standards, the future stewardship of this sensitive information remains uncertain.
Marylanders are encouraged to stay informed about developments related to 23andMe’s bankruptcy and to take proactive steps to protect their personal information. For further assistance or to report concerns, consumers can contact the Maryland Office of the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
