23andMe Bankruptcy Fuels Data Privacy Concerns as Deletion Requests Surge
The genetic testing company faces legal and technical challenges as customers attempt to erase their sensitive DNA data following its Chapter 11 filing.
- 23andMe's Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing has raised concerns about the future handling of genetic data from 15 million customers.
- A 692% spike in website traffic was reported as over 1.5 million users sought to delete their genetic data, overwhelming the company's systems and causing technical difficulties.
- California Attorney General Rob Bonta has reminded residents of their legal right to delete genetic data, including DNA and biological samples, under state law.
- Legal experts warn that customer data may be considered part of the bankruptcy estate, complicating deletion requests during the proceedings.
- 23andMe has pledged to safeguard customer data and emphasized that privacy will remain a key consideration in any potential sale of its assets.
Sherwood News 
Tech Xplore 