The Downfall of 23andMe: A Concern for New Yorkers

The recent bankruptcy filing of the renowned genetic testing company, 23andMe, has raised alarms among residents of New York State.

The firm, which allowed users to send in saliva samples for detailed DNA analysis, has been grappling with financial troubles for a prolonged period, leading to the resignation of co-founder Anne Wojcicki as CEO.

Implications of Bankruptcy: Protecting Your DNA Data

Many New Yorkers are worried about what will happen to their private genetic information now that 23andMe has gone bankrupt. The company has had problems with keeping data safe in the past, which makes people concerned about the security and privacy of their DNA details now.

Since there aren't strong federal laws protecting genetic information, many New Yorkers are anxious about what might happen to their personal data.

Need for Enhanced Legal Protections for Genetic Data

Hospitals and doctors have to follow government rules like HIPAA to protect patient information. But companies like 23andMe don't have to follow these rules, so they can't guarantee the safety of your DNA data.

Some states have their own laws to protect genetic privacy, but without strong national laws, New Yorkers face privacy risks which just goes to show how important it is for state leaders to push for better laws to keep New Yorkers' genetic information safe.

Your Rights and Taking Control of Your Data

During the bankruptcy process, people in New York who are 23andMe customers can ask for their data to be deleted and close their accounts to keep their genetic information safe.

State leaders are encouraging residents to do this and are calling for stronger privacy laws to protect people's genetic data at both the state and national levels.

How to Remove Your Data from 23andMe

To take your information off 23andMe, first sign in to your account and go to "Settings" in your profile. Look for "23andMe Data" and click on "View." You'll need to confirm your age for safety. Then, you can choose to download your data or ask to delete your 23andMe account.

After you ask to delete your account, 23andMe will email you to make sure you want to go through with it. Keep in mind that once you delete your 23andMe account, you can't get it back.

Other users' profiles on the account will also be deleted unless you move them to a different account. Although a lot of data will be removed, some information like genetic data and your birthdate will still be kept for legal reasons, along with a few other account details.

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Advocating for Greater Privacy Protections in New York

The challenges faced by 23andMe show the urgent need for comprehensive consumer privacy laws, especially concerning genetic data. With uncertainties surrounding the fate of the company, residents need to be as proactive as possible in safeguarding their genetic information and advocating for more legal protections.