23andMe Can’t Store, Manage or Protect My Data During a Genetic Account Deletion Once It Has Filled for Chapter 11
As part of the account deletion process, 23andMe will destroy the genetic sample you submitted if you previously opted for it to remain in storage. Your 23andMe data won’t be used for future research, but it will still be in some scientific studies you consented to. If you are having difficulties with the account deletion process, contact customer care@23andme.com.
If you’re asked to verify your age, that will be for security purposes. Once that’s been submitted, the next screen will provide options that will allow you to download your data, alongside a button to request the deletion of your 23andMe account.
Those laws typically let users request that the companies delete their data and require law enforcement agencies to get a warrant or subpoena to access genetic information, Prince said, adding that 23andMe already adheres to both of those policies.
When it comes to protections around data, some states have adopted laws covering genetic privacy. Laws giving consumers a say in how their genetic data is used have been enacted in at least 11 U.S. states according to an article by a University of Iowa law professor.
The genetic testing company 23andMe, best known for allowing people to trace their ancestry with an at-home kit, has been struggling financially for months.
When it was announced that the California firm was entering the federal bankruptcy process in order to find a buyer, there was one question that needed to be asked: What will happen to my data?
23andMe said in an open letter to customers this week that it won’t change the way it store, manage or protect customer data even though it has filed for Chapter 11.