If you’ve ever wondered whether your genetic data is really safe with 23andMe, you’re not alone. Recently, concerns about 23andMe have made headlines, pushing many users to rethink keeping their data with the company. From privacy risks to a recent data breach, here’s what you need to know, and how to delete your 23andMe data.
Why Delete Your 23andMe Data?
If you’ve been following the news, you may have heard about the recent challenges 23andMe has faced. In 2023, a major data breach exposed the personal information of millions of users, including potentially sensitive genetic details. Then, in 2024, the company saw most of its board members step down—a rare move that left many wondering about its future stability.
Since its founding in 2006, 23andMe has provided over 12 million DNA kits, helping people explore their ancestry and health insights through saliva-based testing. While it’s made genetic testing more accessible to the general public, these recent issues serve as a reminder of the importance of data security. If you’re concerned about the safety or use of your 23andMe data, deleting it might be the right step to take back control.
Concerns About Privacy and Data Sharing
One of the biggest questions surrounding 23andMe is: Who has access to all that genetic data?
Over the years, 23andMe has explored partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, which has fueled privacy concerns for many users. In 2015, 23andMe struck a deal with Genentech to use its genetic database to develop treatments for diseases like Parkinson’s. Later, in 2018, the company partnered exclusively with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), with GSK investing $300 million to access the data for drug development. Although this agreement ended in 2023, the partnership highlighted how genetic information can be shared or monetized beyond individual users’ expectations.
While these collaborations might help advance medical research, they’ve raised questions about how much control users have over their DNA data. Many people didn’t anticipate their genetic information being mined for pharmaceutical profits when they initially signed up. This uncertainty drives a growing number of users to consider how to delete 23andMe data to regain control and protect their privacy.
If you’re concerned about how your information is shared—or potentially sold—it’s a good idea to take a closer look at 23andMe’s data policies and consider whether deleting your data is the right move. It’s a proactive step to ensure your information stays private and secure.
For those wanting the benefits of genetic insights without compromising their data, platforms like SelfDecode ensure your information is never sold to third parties and is only used to provide you with personalized health recommendations.
23andMe Data Breach: What Happened?
In 2023, 23andMe experienced a data breach that left millions of users concerned about their personal and genetic information. Initially, the company reported that only around 14,000 accounts were directly accessed by hackers. However, a feature called “DNA Relatives” was exploited to view the details of millions more users. This feature is designed to help people find genetic matches with relatives, but in this case, it became a gateway for unauthorized access.
Ultimately, the breach affected about 5.5 million customers, leaving many wondering if their information is truly secure. Unsurprisingly, this has sparked questions about how to delete 23andMe data and protect privacy.
Is 23andMe Going Out of Business?
While there’s no official indication that 23andMe is going out of business or being sold, the combination of financial strain, executive turnover, and ongoing data privacy concerns has left many users uneasy. For those worried about their sensitive genetic data, now might be a good time to think about taking control—whether that means adjusting your privacy settings or exploring how to delete your 23andMe data.
How To Delete 23andMe Data
If you’ve decided it’s time to part ways with 23andMe and want to ensure your genetic data is deleted, here’s how to delete 23andMe data step by step:
- Log Into Your Account: Start by logging into your 23andMe account on their website.
- Navigate to Settings: Once logged in, go to the “Settings” section of your profile.
- Scroll to the “23andMe data” option: Look for a section labeled “23andMe data” within Settings.
- Download Your Data: If you want a copy of your raw genetic data for personal storage, choose the option to download it to your private device before proceeding.
- Select “Permanently Delete Data”: Once you’re ready, scroll down and select the option to permanently delete your data.
You’ll receive an email outlining their account deletion policy. Follow the link in the email to confirm your request. After confirmation, your account will be permanently disabled, and the deletion process will begin automatically.
If you previously agreed to share your data anonymously for research, you can revoke this consent for future sharing. However, data already used in research cannot be withdrawn.
Please keep in mind that while most of your data will be deleted, 23andMe may retain certain information to meet legal or regulatory requirements.
Tips for Choosing a Privacy-Focused DNA Testing Company
When you’re handing over something as personal as your DNA, finding a company that respects your privacy is a must. Here’s what to keep in mind while picking a DNA testing service:
- Pay Attention To Transparency: Look for DNA services with straightforward privacy policies and clear consent options, allowing you to decide if and how your data is shared.
- Prioritize Security: Make sure the company offers robust data encryption and other security measures.
- Stay in Control: Opt for providers that let you download your genetic data and permanently delete it when you choose.
Some companies go the extra mile to protect your data while still giving you the tools to improve your health. For example, SelfDecode ensures your genetic information stays private and secure, never sold to third parties. Plus, they provide detailed, personalized health insights so you can take control of your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Delete 23andMe Data
Can I retrieve my data after deleting my 23andMe account?
No, once your account is deleted, your data is permanently removed and cannot be recovered. Be sure to download any data you want to keep before proceeding with deletion.
Can I download my 23andMe DNA data before deleting my account?
Yes, you can. 23andMe allows you to download your raw DNA data before deleting your account. Read more about how to access your 23andMe data.
Can I upload my 23andMe DNA data to other services?
Yes, you can. Many services, such as SelfDecode, accept raw DNA data from 23andMe. This allows you to access privacy-focused and in-depth health reports without needing a new test.
How long does it take to delete 23andMe data?
Once you confirm your request, 23andMe begins the deletion process immediately. While you lose access to your account right away, it may take longer for all data to be fully removed.
What happens to my 23andMe data after I delete my account?
Most of your personal data will be erased after you delete your account. However, if you previously consented to share de-identified data for research, any information already shared cannot be retracted. Additionally, 23andMe may retain some of your personal information to comply with legal obligations.
Conclusion
Protecting your genetic data isn’t just about privacy—it’s about safeguarding something uniquely yours. With the increasing use of DNA data in research and business, making informed choices about where you share it and how you manage it has never been more important.
If you’re looking for a DNA testing option that puts your privacy first and delivers actionable health insights, there are better alternatives out there. SelfDecode, for instance, offers personalized health solutions without compromising your data security. You stay in full control of your information while gaining meaningful insights to improve your well-being.
