The news of 23andMe’s bankruptcy filing has sparked a lot of questions about what happens to genetic data when a company falters. Having spent years running an IT business, I’ve seen how sensitive information can become a hot potato in situations like this—especially something as personal as your DNA. Let’s break down what’s happening, why it matters, and what you can do to protect yourself.
What’s at Stake
With 23andMe looking to sell its assets, your genetic profile could be bundled into the deal. A new owner might not share the same privacy priorities you’d expect, and U.S. federal laws don’t provide a robust safety net for this kind of data. Some states, like California, have stricter rules, but without a consistent national standard, it’s a roll of the dice.
What sets genetic data apart is its permanence and intimacy. Unlike a compromised password you can reset, your DNA is uniquely yours forever. If it lands in the wrong hands, the risks go beyond annoying ads. Imagine insurers tweaking your rates based on your genetic predispositions, or employers quietly factoring it into hiring decisions. There’s even the potential for identity theft on a whole new level—someone could use your genetic markers to impersonate you in ways we’re only beginning to understand. Once it’s out, there’s no pulling it back.
How to Pull Your Data Out
If you’re uneasy about where your genetic info might end up, you can delete it from 23andMe. Here’s how to do it:
- Log into your account and navigate to your Profile.
- Click Settings, then find the “23andMe Data” section.
- Want a keepsake? Download your data first—it’s an option right there.
- Select “Delete Data” and confirm it through the email link they’ll send.
Most of your info should vanish after that, though they might retain some fragments for legal or compliance reasons. Downloading a copy beforehand is a smart move if you’re not 100% sure about letting it go.
A Broader Look at Data Risks
Running an IT shop has taught me that security often fails at the weakest link—and a company in financial trouble can be a gaping hole. The 23andMe situation is a wake-up call, but it’s not just about genetic data. Here are some practical steps to harden your digital defenses:
- Use strong, unique passwords: No repeats, no “password123.” A password manager can be a big help.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): It’s an extra lock on the door—use it everywhere it’s offered.
- Limit what you share: Before uploading your life story (or your spit), ask who’s on the other end and what they might do with it.
- Check privacy settings regularly: Companies change policies; don’t get caught off guard.
This isn’t just about one company—it’s a symptom of a bigger issue. Tech moves fast, and laws are dragging their feet. Genetic data isn’t just a health report; it’s a blueprint of who you are. That deserves ironclad protection, not the patchwork we’ve got now.
How IT Pros Can Step Up
Here’s where my IT hat stays firmly on. Companies like ours—Robb.Tech—don’t just fix printers or untangle Wi-Fi woes. We’re in the business of locking down your digital life. If the 23andMe saga has you spooked, we can offer tools like:
- Data encryption: Scrambling your sensitive files so only you hold the key.
- Secure storage solutions: Think of it as a digital vault for your most private info.
- Privacy audits: A deep dive to spot where your data might be leaking—or at risk.
It’s not about fearmongering; it’s about staying ahead of the curve. In a world where data is the new currency, having an IT pro in your corner is like having a trusted advisor who speaks geek fluently.
Wrapping Up
The 23andMe bankruptcy is a nudge to rethink who’s holding your data and how much you’re comfortable sharing. Deleting your genetic info is a solid first step, but the bigger play is staying proactive about your digital footprint. If you’re ever wondering how to tighten things up, the crew at Robb.Tech has your back—we’ve been keeping data safe for years, and we’d love to help you out.
-Phil Robb, steering the ship at Robb.Tech