23andMe Faces Data Sale Risks Amid Bankruptcy

23andMe, the genetic testing company, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on March 24, raising concerns about the potential sale of sensitive genetic data from its 15 million customers. The UK Information Commissioner’s Office has warned that any auction or sale of this data must comply with UK GDPR, emphasizing the high standards required for handling genetic information. Experts have voiced alarm over the implications of selling such data, especially after the company's history of data breaches and settlements, including a recent $30 million payout for a lawsuit involving Jewish clients. Consumers are being urged to delete their data, with California's Attorney General advising residents to request the destruction of their saliva samples. The Federal Trade Commission is also monitoring the situation closely, advocating for the protection of privacy commitments during the bankruptcy process. As 23andMe seeks to maximize its asset value through a court-supervised sale, the ethical and privacy implications of potentially selling genetic information remain a significant concern.