23andMe's Financial Crisis: Is Your DNA Data Safe?

The genetic testing giant 23andMe is reportedly considering bankruptcy, sparking fears about what happens to millions of customers' DNA data if the company collapses. With privacy experts warning of potential risks, here's what you need to know.

Why 23andMe Could Face Bankruptcy

Once a darling of Silicon Valley, 23andMe has struggled with declining sales, stock value drops, and a major data breach in 2023. The company’s market value has plummeted, leading to discussions of restructuring or even a Chapter 11 filing.

• Stock Plunge: Shares fell more than 90% from their peak.
• Data Breach Fallout: Hackers stole millions of users' ancestry data.
• Slowing Sales: Fewer consumers are purchasing DNA test kits.

What Happens to Your Genetic Data?

Your DNA is one of the most personal pieces of data you can share—so what if 23andMe goes under?

1. Data Ownership: Users technically grant 23andMe rights to use their genetic data for research.
2. Potential Sale: A bankrupt company could sell data assets to pay creditors.
3. Regulation Gaps: Few laws prevent genetic data from being resold.

Can You Delete Your Data?

While 23andMe allows users to request data deletion, critics argue the process isn’t foolproof:

• Research partners may already have copies.
• De-anonymization risks exist if data gets sold.

What Do You Think?

• Should genetic testing companies have more restrictions on how they handle user data?
• Would you trust another company if 23andMe sells its genetic database?
• Is it ethical for DNA data to be used in medical research without explicit consent?
• Should bankrupt companies be forced to destroy sensitive user data rather than sell it?