Protect Our Genetic Data: Demand 23andMe Respect Our Privacy Rights

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Protect Our Genetic Data: Demand 23andMe Respect Our Privacy Rights

Our genetic data is the most intimate personal information we possess. Now, with 23andMe facing bankruptcy, millions of people's sensitive genetic information could be sold to companies without our knowledge or consent. Once again, companies are treating our most personal data like a product to be sold rather than a trust to be protected.

23andMe holds the genetic information of more than 14 million customers, including data that reveals ancestry, health predispositions, and other deeply personal biological information. As the company faces financial collapse, it has failed to clearly tell customers what will happen to their genetic data or how they can delete it.

Black communities, already watched more closely and targeted for data misuse, face even greater risks to our privacy. Companies and healthcare providers could buy this information and use our genetic data to deepen existing biases — affecting how algorithms determine hiring decisions, set insurance rates, provide medical care, or even influence law enforcement actions.

To the CEO and Board of Directors at 23andMe:

As 23andMe faces financial distress and potential bankruptcy, we, the undersigned, demand that you take immediate action to protect the privacy and genetic data of your customers:

Proactively notify ALL customers about your financial situation and the potential risks to their genetic data through multiple communication channels (email, app notifications, and postal mail).

Create an expedited, simplified, and accessible process for ALL customers to permanently delete their genetic data and biological samples from your systems.

Commit to NEVER selling, transferring, or otherwise monetizing customer genetic data as part of any bankruptcy proceedings, restructuring, or acquisition.

Disclose to customers your data retention and deletion practices, including detailed information about what happens to customer data in case of company closure or acquisition.

Your company has made billions by collecting our most intimate biological information. You have a moral and ethical responsibility to protect that data and respect our privacy rights.

Will you do right by your customers and protect their privacy?