Attorney General Charity Clark has issued a consumer alert for Vermonters following the recent bankruptcy filing by 23andMe, a company known for its direct-to-consumer genetic testing services. The company collects and analyzes genetic and health data from consumers. In their announcement, 23andMe stated that they plan to continue operating normally during the sale process and assured that there will be "no changes to the way [it] stores, manages, or protects customer data." However, the potential sale of the company's assets as part of the bankruptcy proceedings could lead to Vermonters' personal information being sold.
Attorney General Clark emphasized the importance of Vermonters taking immediate action to safeguard their data. She stated, "I urge all Vermonters to take these steps immediately to protect their personal data." She also highlighted this situation as a reminder of the need for comprehensive data privacy laws.
Vermonters are advised to request that 23andMe delete their personal data, destroy any test samples provided, and revoke permissions for using their genetic information. These actions can be taken through account settings on 23andMe's platform:
1. To delete data from 23andMe.
2. To destroy your 23andMe test sample: If you had opted to store your saliva sample and DNA with 23andMe but wish to change this preference, it can be adjusted under "Preferences" in account settings.
3. To revoke permission for your genetic data to be used for research: If consent was previously given for research purposes involving third-party researchers, it can be withdrawn under "Research and Product Consents" in account settings.
Vermonters encountering difficulties while requesting deletion of their data should reach out to the Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program at 1-800-649-2424 or via email at AGO.CAP@vermont.gov.