23andMe Bankruptcy: What to Do with Your DNA Data Now

Uh Oh, Your Genes Might Be Going…Going…Gone!

Remember that thrill of spitting into a tube, sending it off, and eagerly awaiting the secrets your DNA held? Yeah, well, things have taken a rather dramatic turn in the world of personal genetics. 23andMe, the company that made ancestry and health insights accessible (and, let's be honest, a bit addictive), has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The news has sent ripples of concern through the community, and if you're a customer, you're probably wondering: what now? Should I be worried about my precious DNA data? The short answer: yes, you should be informed and proactive.

This isn't just some corporate drama; it's about your personal information, and what happens to it matters. So, let's break down the situation and, more importantly, what you need to do. We'll walk you through a step-by-step guide to protect yourself and your genetic legacy.

Why Did 23andMe File for Bankruptcy? A Quick Recap

Before we dive into the 'how-to,' let's quickly understand the 'why.' 23andMe, despite its popularity, has faced financial headwinds for a while. Years of losses, coupled with a cybersecurity breach in late 2023 that exposed user data, have taken their toll. While the company intends to sell its assets, the future of its data, and the privacy of its customers, is now uncertain. This is why the advice circulating everywhere is to act now.

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do With Your 23andMe Data Now

Here’s a practical guide to navigate the situation. Don't panic; this is manageable. We'll break down the steps for protecting your data and your privacy.

Step 1: Understand Your Options

First things first: acknowledge that your data's future is uncertain. The bankruptcy filing means 23andMe might be acquired by another company, or its assets could be liquidated. This means your data could be sold or transferred. This is why taking control is crucial.

Step 2: Download Your Raw Data

This is arguably the most important step. Download a copy of your raw genetic data. This is the uninterpreted, unfiltered information about your DNA. Here’s how:

  1. Log in to your 23andMe account: Go to the 23andMe website and sign in.
  2. Navigate to your account settings: Find the “Browse Raw Data” or “Download Raw Data” section, usually under your account settings or privacy settings. (The exact location might vary slightly depending on their website updates, but it’s usually easily accessible.)
  3. Request a download: Follow the prompts to request a download of your raw data. You'll likely be asked to verify your identity, which could involve answering security questions or entering a code sent to your email.
  4. Download the file: The file will typically be in a .txt or .csv format. It might take a while to generate, so be patient.

Why download? Having your raw data allows you to upload it to other genetic analysis platforms or services, giving you control over where your information is stored and analyzed. It also protects you if 23andMe's services are discontinued.

Step 3: Consider Deleting Your Data From 23andMe

This is a critical decision. The primary advice is to delete your data from 23andMe. Here’s how:

  1. Log in to your account: Again, sign in to your 23andMe account.
  2. Find the account deletion option: Look for a “Delete Account” or “Delete Data” option in your account settings or privacy settings. Be extra vigilant because companies often make this process a little less obvious than other settings.
  3. Follow the deletion prompts: You will likely be asked to confirm your decision, perhaps by entering your password or answering a security question.
  4. Confirm and wait: Follow the instructions to confirm the deletion. Understand that it might take some time for your data to be fully removed from their systems.

Why delete? Deleting your data removes your information from their servers, reducing the risk of it being compromised or misused by a new owner. It's the most proactive way to protect your privacy.

Important Note: Once you delete your data, it’s generally gone. Make sure you have downloaded your raw data before proceeding.

Step 4: Explore Alternative Services

If you still want to explore your DNA and ancestry, there are other reputable companies. Here are a few options, along with brief notes:

  • AncestryDNA: A leading competitor, known for its extensive database and family tree building tools.
  • MyHeritage DNA: Offers ancestry and health reports, with a strong focus on international markets.
  • Living DNA: Focuses on ancestry and offers detailed regional breakdowns.
  • FamilyTreeDNA: Specializes in DNA testing for genealogy and offers various tools for connecting with relatives.

What to consider when choosing a new service:

  • Privacy policies: Carefully review their privacy policies to understand how they handle your data.
  • Security measures: Check what security measures they have in place to protect your information.
  • Data storage: Find out where they store your data and for how long.
  • Data sharing: Understand how, or if, they share your data with third parties.

Example: Imagine you've always been fascinated by your Irish heritage. You downloaded your data from 23andMe and, after deleting it, uploaded it to MyHeritage. This gives you a fresh start with a new provider, allowing you to continue exploring your ancestry while mitigating the risk of your data being caught up in the 23andMe bankruptcy.

Step 5: Secure Your Account and Passwords

Even if you delete your data, it's wise to take these additional security precautions:

  • Change your password: Use a strong, unique password for your 23andMe account.
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): If available, enable 2FA for an extra layer of security.
  • Monitor your email: Keep an eye on your email for any suspicious activity or data breach notifications.

Step 6: Stay Informed

Keep up-to-date with the latest developments regarding 23andMe. Follow reputable news sources and privacy watchdogs for updates on the bankruptcy proceedings and any potential data-related issues.

Conclusion: Your DNA, Your Decision

The 23andMe bankruptcy is a stark reminder of the importance of data privacy. While this situation is concerning, it also empowers you to take control of your genetic information. By downloading your data, deleting it from 23andMe, and exploring alternative options, you can protect your privacy and continue to explore your ancestry and health insights on your terms.

Here's a quick recap of the actionable takeaways:

  • Download your raw data immediately.
  • Seriously consider deleting your data from 23andMe.
  • Explore alternative genetic testing services.
  • Secure your account and stay informed.

Your DNA is a part of you, and you have the right to decide how it's used and protected. Take these steps to safeguard your genetic legacy, and remember that staying informed and proactive is the best way to navigate this evolving landscape.

This post was published as part of my automated content series.