# 23andMe Data Privacy Issues: Is It Time to Remove Your Account?
Earlier this month, **23andMe**, the well-known DNA testing company, experienced a major upheaval when all its independent board members resigned. This event occurred shortly after the company announced the closure of its internal drug research department, sparking fears about the company’s future trajectory and stability. Following these developments, cybersecurity specialists and privacy advocates have begun urging users to reevaluate their connections with 23andMe, with some recommending that individuals delete their accounts and seek the elimination of their genetic information.
## What’s Causing the Alarm Among Experts?
The issues related to 23andMe are not unprecedented, but they have become more pronounced in recent months. The company, which provides genetic testing services to the public, amasses vast quantities of sensitive information, including DNA data that can disclose personal health vulnerabilities, lineage, and even potential familial bonds.
The **Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF)**, a prominent digital rights organization, has been outspoken about the possible dangers of disclosing genetic information to firms like 23andMe. Eva Galperin, the EFF’s cybersecurity director, recently encouraged users to think about deleting their 23andMe accounts, highlighting worries regarding how the company manages and protects such sensitive data.
In a parallel sentiment, **Meredith Whittaker**, president of the secure messaging platform Signal, also implored users to terminate their accounts. She stressed that even if you haven’t personally utilized 23andMe, if a relative has, your genetic data could still be jeopardized. “If anyone in your FAMILY submitted their DNA to 23andMe, for all of your sakes, close your/their account now,” Whittaker posted on Twitter.
### The Dangers of Exposed DNA Information
The foremost concern with consumer DNA testing services like 23andMe is the possibility of inappropriate use or unauthorized access to genetic data. Unlike passwords or credit card details, which can be changed if compromised, your DNA is permanent. Once your genetic information circulates, it cannot be retracted or modified.
Possible dangers include:
– **Data breaches**: If a company holding genetic data is targeted by hackers, sensitive information could be compromised.
– **Third-party sharing**: Numerous DNA testing firms, including 23andMe, collaborate with pharmaceutical companies and other outside entities. While these collaborations are often portrayed as advantageous for research, they raise concerns regarding how data is disseminated and utilized.
– **Government access**: In some situations, law enforcement may seek access to genetic databases to resolve crimes. While this can be viewed as a positive step for public safety, it also elevates issues related to privacy and potential misuse.
## Steps to Remove Your 23andMe Data
If you’re worried about the confidentiality of your genetic information and wish to delete your 23andMe account, the procedure is not as simple as pressing a button. Here’s a detailed guide to assist you:
1. **Sign in to your 23andMe account**.
2. Go to your **Account Settings**. You can find this by following [this link](https://you.23andme.com/user/?_gl=1*1umr7w1*_ga*NzEwODg3MjIzLjE3MjgzNDU2OTI.*_ga_G330GF3ZFF*MTcyODM0NTY5MS4xLjEuMTcyODM0Njg2NS4wLjAuMA..).
3. Scroll to the **23andMe Data** section, located near the bottom of the page.
4. Click on **View** to access your data management choices.
5. After verifying with your birthday, you will be taken to a new page where you’ll find a large red button marked **Permanently Delete Data**. Click this button to submit your request.
However, the process isn’t finished there. After your request is submitted, 23andMe will send a confirmation email to the address linked to your account. You must confirm your request via this email for the deletion to be completed.
According to 23andMe, it could take up to **30 days** to completely remove your data from their systems.
### What Occurs After You Delete Your Data?
While 23andMe asserts that it will erase your data upon request, it’s essential to understand that the company may still hold onto certain information for legal or regulatory purposes. Moreover, if you have shared your genetic data with other users or third parties, 23andMe may not be able to retrieve or eliminate that information.
Additionally, as Meredith Whittaker highlighted, even if you erase your own data, if a family member has utilized 23andMe or any similar service, some of your genetic details may still be retrievable through their account. This is due to the inherently shared nature of genetic data among family members, and the presence of a
