Oklahoma AG Warns 23andMe Customers Amid Bankruptcy Fears

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (KSWO) – Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has issued a consumer alert for 23andMe customers following the company’s recent bankruptcy filing. The Attorney General’s warning comes as there are rising concerns that 23andMe may sell personal and genetic information as part of its asset liquidation.

According to Drummond, the genetic testing company has been known for collecting and analyzing customer genetic data, which could now be at risk. “The implications of 23andMe selling genetic information to the highest bidder are understandably very concerning to Oklahomans who have used the company’s services,” he stated.

To protect their information, Drummond provided customers with step-by-step guidelines for deleting their genetic data from the 23andMe platform. Users are advised to log into their accounts, navigate to the ‘Settings’ section, and proceed to the ’23andMe Data’ section to download and delete their data. The process concludes with a confirmation email from the company.

For those who wish to destroy their test samples, Drummond mentioned that this could also be adjusted through account settings under “Preferences.” Furthermore, consumers can revoke their consent for 23andMe’s research use of their genetic data by managing their choices within the account settings.

Drummond reassured the public that while the situation surrounding 23andMe is troubling, there are proactive steps that consumers can take to safeguard their privacy. He encouraged customers to take these measures seriously.