KY Attorney General Encourages Public to Delete "23andMe" Data

Edmonson Voice Report:
Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman issued a consumer alert and encouraged Kentuckians to protect their genetic data following 23andMe’s bankruptcy announcement.

According to a statement from AG Coleman, the California-based 23andMe collects and analyzes people’s genetic code and uses DNA samples for a variety of purposes, including helping people trace their ancestry and detect personal health risks. The company, which filed for bankruptcy last month, announced plans to sell its assets.

Given the sensitive consumer data 23andMe has amassed, Attorney General Coleman's statement reminded Kentuckians of their rights under the Kentucky Genetic Information Privacy Act. "Kentuckians have the right to delete the consumer’s account and genetic data and the right to request and obtain the destruction of any samples of genetic material held by the company," the AG's statement read.

“We have laws in place that protect Kentuckians’ rights and their personal information,” said Attorney General Coleman. “Every Kentuckian who did business with 23andMe should consider taking the proper steps to safeguard their sensitive information.”

Coleman said consumers can delete their account and personal information by taking the following steps:

1. Log into your 23andMe account on their website.
2. Go to the “Settings” section of your profile.
3. Scroll to a section labeled “23andMe Data” at the bottom of the page.
4. Click “View” next to “23andMe Data.”
5. Download your data: If you want a copy of your genetic data for personal storage, choose the option to download it to your device before proceeding.
6. Scroll to the “Delete Data” section.
7. Click “Permanently Delete Data.”
8. Confirm your request: You’ll receive an email from 23andMe; follow the link in the email to confirm your deletion request.

To Destroy Your 23andMe Test Sample, according to Coleman:   If you previously opted to have your saliva sample and DNA stored by 23andMe, but want to change that preference, you can do so from your account settings page, under “Preferences.”  

To Revoke Permission for Your Genetic Data to be Used for Research, according to Coleman:   If you previously consented to 23andMe and third-party researchers using your genetic data and sample for research, you may withdraw consent from the account settings page under “Research and Product Consents.”