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Tag: data deletion

  • 23andMe: How to Delete Your DNA Data Simply

    23andMe: How to Delete Your DNA Data Simply

    Deleting Your 23andMe Data: A Simple Guide

    Taking control of your personal information is essential, especially when it comes to sensitive genetic data. If you’ve decided to remove your data from 23andMe, this guide offers simple, straightforward steps to permanently delete your information. Follow along to ensure your privacy is protected.

    Why Delete Your 23andMe Data?

    Several reasons might lead you to delete your 23andMe data. Concerns about privacy, data security, or simply no longer wanting your genetic information stored on their servers are valid motivations. Understanding the implications of deleting your data is the first step.

    Step-by-Step Deletion Process

    Here’s how you can delete your 23andMe data:

    1. Sign In: Access your 23andMe account here using your registered email and password.
    2. Account Settings: Navigate to your account settings. This is usually found under your profile menu.
    3. Data Deletion Request: Look for the option to close your account and delete personal information. 23andMe provides options to either download or delete your data; ensure you select the latter.
    4. Confirm Deletion: You may need to confirm your decision multiple times. 23andMe takes data deletion seriously, so they ensure you understand the implications.
    5. Wait for Confirmation: After submitting your request, 23andMe will process the deletion. You will typically receive an email confirming the deletion is complete.

    What Happens After Deletion?

    When you delete your account, 23andMe erases your personal and genetic data from active systems. However, some aggregated, anonymized data may remain for research. Importantly, it won’t link back to you.

    ✅ What You Keep — Legally Required Retention

    • 23andMe may still retain your birth date, sex, and limited account logs.
    • They also keep anonymized data used in research—untraceable to individuals. apnews.com
    • Additionally, they may retain records like email address, order history, and consent logs for compliance. customercare.23andme.com

    🔍 Why Some Data Remains

    • First, laws require them to keep certain details for tax or audit purposes.
    • Next, privacy policies state that de-identified data can be used for future research. reddit.com
    • Finally, if any anonymized data was sold or shared before deletion, it can’t be recalled.

    Key Takeaways

    • ✅ Active deletion removes your personal genetic info.
    • ⚠️ Research data may stay, but it won’t identify you.
    • 📌 Review their privacy policy for exact details and definitions.marketwatch.com

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  • 23andMe: 15% Opt-Out After Bankruptcy Filing

    23andMe: 15% Opt-Out After Bankruptcy Filing

    Genetic Data Deletion Requests Surge at 23andMe Post-Bankruptcy

    Since filing for bankruptcy, 23andMe has reported a significant increase in customer requests to delete their genetic data. Approximately 15% of its user base has asked the company to remove their information, raising concerns about data privacy and security amidst financial instability.

    Why Are Users Deleting Their Data?

    Several factors may contribute to this surge in data deletion requests. The primary reason is likely increased anxiety about how a bankrupt company might handle sensitive genetic information. Users might fear potential data breaches, sales of data to third parties, or other misuse scenarios. Heightened awareness of data privacy issues, fueled by frequent news about cyberattacks and data leaks, could also be a contributing factor.

    Data Privacy Concerns

    • Data Security Risks: Users worry about the security of their genetic information in a company facing financial challenges.
    • Potential Misuse: Concerns arise regarding the potential sale or unauthorized use of data by the bankrupt entity or its creditors.
    • Loss of Control: Customers want to regain control over their personal information and ensure it is not compromised during bankruptcy proceedings.

    What Happens to Your Data When You Request Deletion?

    When a user requests data deletion from 23andMe, the company is obligated to remove the genetic data from its active databases. However, complete and irreversible deletion can be complex. Here’s what typically happens:

    1. Account Closure: The user’s account is closed, and access to the platform is terminated.
    2. Data Removal: Genetic data and associated personal information are removed from active databases used for research and analysis.
    3. Backup Retention: Copies of the data may be retained in backups for a certain period, primarily for legal and compliance reasons.
    4. Anonymization: In some cases, data may be anonymized and used for research purposes, ensuring it cannot be linked back to the individual.

    Protecting Your Genetic Privacy

    If you are a 23andMe customer concerned about your genetic data, consider these steps:

    • Review Privacy Settings: Regularly check and adjust your privacy settings on the 23andMe platform to control data sharing preferences.
    • Request Data Deletion: If you’re uncomfortable with the company’s data handling practices, request the deletion of your data.
    • Monitor Data Breaches: Stay informed about potential data breaches or security incidents that could affect your information.