Attorney General Kathy Jennings has advised Delaware residents who have used 23andMe's genetic testing services to delete their data from the company's database. This guidance comes after 23andMe filed for bankruptcy and may potentially sell its genetic database during the bankruptcy process.
"Your genetic profile is the most personal of personal information," stated AG Jennings. "But my office has learned 23andMe may seek to sell its genetic database through bankruptcy to the highest bidder. That is an unacceptable risk. Delawareans should act now to protect their genetic information."
AG Jennings urged Delaware residents to submit their deletion requests promptly. Although the company currently continues to process these requests, there is no certainty regarding how long this will continue as the bankruptcy progresses. Once the process is complete, any undeleted genetic data could be either controlled by 23andMe's new owner or sold off.
Users can find details and submit deletion requests through the company's platform. Additional information about data privacy rights is available at privacy.delaware.gov.