Previously-popular DNA analysing company 23andme has filed for bankruptcy.

On the basis that no-one really knows what’s going to happen to it next, various organisations - including California’s Attorney General and the NYT’s Wirecutter - are advising that customers should probably download and delete their (very sensitive) data. It’s a shame given the potential for good such a collection had, but totally makes sense to do given today’s world.

From the aforementioned AG’s site:

To Delete Genetic Data from 23andMe:

  1. Consumers can delete their account and personal information by taking the following steps:
  2. Log into your 23andMe account on their website. 
  3. Go to the “Settings” section of your profile.
  4. Scroll to a section labeled “23andMe Data” at the bottom of the page. 
  5. Click “View” next to “23andMe Data”
  6. Download your data: If you want a copy of your genetic data for personal storage, choose the option to download it to your device before proceeding.
  7. Scroll to the “Delete Data” section. 
  8. Click “Permanently Delete Data.” 
  9. Confirm your request: You’ll receive an email from 23andMe; follow the link in the email to confirm your deletion request.

To Destroy Your 23andMe Test Sample:

If you previously opted to have your saliva sample and DNA stored by 23andMe, but want to change that preference, you can do so from your account settings page, under “Preferences.”

To Revoke Permission for Your Genetic Data to be Used for Research:

If you previously consented to 23andMe and third-party researchers to use your genetic data and sample for research, you may withdraw consent from the account settings page, under “Research and Product Consents.”

I find it quite disgraceful that 23andme hasn’t reached out to its customers about this at all as far as I can tell. Indeed they’re still selling their service, currently promoting the always-weird-to-me Mother’s day sale in case you want to expose your mum to the risk. Outside of the bankruptcy, I can’t imagine why it would ever be a good idea to buy a relative a 23andme kit, unless of course they specifically asked you.