In a move that has alarmed privacy advocates and longtime users alike, they are urging customers to delete their DNA information from the personal genetics company 23andMe following its recent bankruptcy filing. The company, once at the forefront of the direct-to-consumer DNA testing boom, now faces mounting financial and legal challenges that have thrown the security of its vast genetic database into question.

The bankruptcy filing marks a dramatic fall for 23andMe, which has amassed genetic data from over 14 million users since its launch in 2006. As it navigates potential acquisition and restructuring, the company has encouraged customers to proactively remove their sensitive data from its servers. This appeal underscores growing concerns about data privacy in the biotech sector—especially as user information could become a bargaining chip during corporate transitions. The case raises critical questions about consumer protection in an era where people’s most intimate data is increasingly digitized and vulnerable. 

"Our website experienced some issues and delays due to increased traffic yesterday,” a 23andMe spokesperson stated per Reuters. “As of today (Tuesday), those issues have been resolved. If anyone has any issues in regards to accessing their account or deleting their data, they can go to our customer care site for support," 

23andMe soared to popularity because of its convenient and streamlined process of allowing users to get detailed genealogy information by merely collecting their own saliva and mailing it back to the company for analysis. 

"Genetic data isn't just a bit of personal information — it is a blueprint of your entire biological profile,” NordVPN cybersecurity expert Adrianus Warmenhoven told Reuters. “When a company goes under, this personal data is an asset to be sold with potentially far-reaching consequences," 

According to the outlet, the company’s bankruptcy filing will not affect how it stores, manages or protects customer data. However, onlookers are calling foul since reports have claimed that the company is available for purchase to the highest bidder. This raises concerns about data privacy and infringement of biotech ethics.  

Currently, 23andMe’s company website says that if there’s a change in ownership, its data will remain protected under its current privacy policy "unless and until you are presented with materially new terms, with appropriate advanced notice to review those material changes as required by law."