23andMe Bankruptcy Raises Privacy Concerns for Millions

The bankruptcy of 23andMe has sparked significant concern regarding the future of the personal genetic data held by the company, especially for the over 15 million users who provided their DNA. As part of the bankruptcy proceedings, a U.S. judge ruled that the company could sell its consumer data, prompting state attorneys general to advise customers to delete their genetic data. Experts highlight that the implications of such data sales could jeopardize privacy and even affect health insurance eligibility. The downfall of 23andMe has been attributed to declining consumer trust, legal troubles, and an unsustainable business model, as the company struggled to maintain user engagement and profitability. This situation raises questions about the ethical handling of genetic data and the potential risks for marginalized communities. As the genetic testing landscape shifts, the challenges faced by 23andMe serve as a cautionary tale for the biotech industry.