How to Delete Your Data From 23andMe

As you have probably heard by now, 23andMe, the direct-to-consumer genetic testing company, has filed for bankruptcy protection.

23andMe Board Chair recently stated;

“In addition, we are committed to continuing to safeguard customer data and being transparent about the management of user data going forward, and data privacy will be an important consideration in any potential transaction,”

While the company is scrambling to secure new financing or sell the company in its entirety, people are, understandably worried about what will happen to their sensitive data, should the company not recover, or be sold to an entity that is less concerned about customer data privacy.

While some business experts point out that the terms of any existing contract would still apply, even if the company is sold, the concern is that a new owner may not put the same level of importance on confidentiality or data security as the current company.

It has been reported on multiple news programs that people should download all of their personal information from 23andMe and then delete their account, in an effort to protect their privacy.

We have heard from several readers that they can’t figure out how to actually delete their data and account, so we thought we would try to offer some assistance.

Follow these steps to delete you 23andMe data and account.

• Log into your 23andMe account.
• Navigate to Settings,
• Scroll down to the 23andMe Data section at the bottom,
• Click View on the right,
• Enter your birthday,
• Scroll to the bottom of the next page, and click Permanently Delete Data.

Once you submit your request, 23andMe will send you an email to confirm your request, which should look something like this:

It may take up to 30-days for the account deletion to be completed.

It’s important to keep in mind that things are changing rapidly at 23andMe and their emails, processes and timing are all subject to change so we suggest being patient, but also being diligent and following up after a reasonable time, if you are not getting a response.

We hope you found this information helpful.

Are you a 23andMe customer? Are you planning to delete your information and account, or wait and see how things turn out? Why not join the conversation and leave a comment below.

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