Your Genetic Data: Who Really Owns It?

A company called 23andMe is in trouble. It's looking to sell off its assets, which includes the genetic data of 15 million users. This news has sparked concern among privacy advocates. They're worried about where this sensitive information might end up. The company has filed for bankruptcy protection and is seeking a buyer. During this process, 23andMe claims it will keep handling customer data the same way. However, a new owner could change how this data is used. 23andMe's privacy policy says it won't sell identifiable genetic data. It also states that data sharing with researchers requires user consent. But there's a catch: the policy can be changed at any time. This means future changes could affect how data is used or shared. People's DNA holds more than just family history. It can reveal health risks and has even been used by law enforcement to solve crimes. There are laws to protect against genetic discrimination by employers and health insurers. However, these laws don't cover life insurance companies or other services. So, there are gaps in protection. A new owner might have different values and use the data in unexpected ways. This is why some experts are advising users to delete their accounts. 23andMe has provided steps for users to delete their data. Users can log in, navigate to settings, and follow the prompts to delete their genetic information. They can also request the disposal of their saliva sample and withdraw consent for research use. The process might not be smooth. The website could be slow or glitchy due to high traffic. But users are encouraged to keep trying. This situation highlights the importance of understanding who controls our genetic data. It's a reminder to stay informed about privacy policies and the potential risks of sharing sensitive information online.