In recent weeks, concerns about the future of genetic testing company 23andMe have sparked renewed interest in data privacy. With financial troubles and potential ownership changes looming, many users are reconsidering the security of their sensitive genetic information. Here’s why you might want to delete your 23andMe data and how to do it.
Why Delete Your 23andMe Data?
- Uncertain Future: 23andMe’s financial difficulties have raised questions about what might happen to user data if the company is sold or goes bankrupt[1].
- Privacy Risks: Your genetic data is incredibly personal and could potentially be used to identify you or your relatives, even if “de-identified”[2].
- Insurance Concerns: In some cases, genetic information could be used by insurers to deny coverage or increase premiums for life, disability, or long-term care insurance[3].
- Research Opt-Out: If you’ve previously consented to research but have changed your mind, deleting your data ensures it won’t be used in future studies[4].
- Potential Data Breaches: While 23andMe has strong security measures, no system is completely immune to breaches.
How to Delete Your 23andMe Data
Deleting your 23andMe data is a straightforward process, but it’s important to note that it’s irreversible. Here’s how to do it:
- Log into your 23andMe account
- Go to “Settings”
- Scroll down to “23andMe Data” and click “View”
- Scroll to the bottom and click “Permanently Delete Data”
- Confirm your decision via the email sent by 23andMe[5]
The deletion process can take up to 45 days to complete.
What Data is Actually Deleted?
While 23andMe will delete most of your personal information, they are required to retain some data to comply with legal obligations. This includes:
- Some genetic information
- Your date of birth and sex
- Your email address and deletion request identifier[5]
Additionally, any data already used in ongoing or completed research studies cannot be removed, though it won’t be used in future research[4].
Alternatives to Full Deletion
If you’re not ready to completely delete your data, consider these options:
- Download Your Data: Before deleting, you can download a copy of your genetic information for personal records.
- Revoke Research Consent: You can opt out of future research without deleting your entire account.
- Review Privacy Settings: Adjust your sharing preferences to limit what information is visible to others.
Conclusion
The decision to delete your 23andMe data is personal and depends on your individual privacy concerns. While the company has strong protections in place, the uncertain future of genetic data privacy makes it worth considering. Whatever you decide, staying informed about how your data is used and protected is crucial in our increasingly data-driven world.
Remember, your genetic information is uniquely yours. Take the time to consider your options and make the choice that best aligns with your privacy values and comfort level.
Citations:
[1] https://www.pcmag.com/news/23andme-trouble-sparks-calls-for-users-to-delete-their-dna-data-heres-how
[2] https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2024/10/sale-23andmes-data-would-be-bad-privacy-heres-what-customers-can-do
[3] https://innovation.consumerreports.org/an-uncertain-future-for-23andme-and-your-dna-data/
[4] https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360004944654-What-s-In-Your-Account-Settings
[5] https://www.technologyreview.com/2024/10/14/1105488/how-to-delete-your-23andme-data/
[6] https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-delete-your-23andme-data-2024-10
[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/23andme/comments/17lezy7/i_learned_23andme_will_keep_your_genetic_data/
[8] https://techcrunch.com/2024/09/16/microsoft-copilot-everything-you-need-to-know-about-microsofts-ai/
