AG Coleman encourages Kentuckians to delete 23andMe data

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – Attorney General Russell Coleman issued a consumer alert and encouraged Kentuckians to protect their genetic data following 23andMe’s bankruptcy announcement.

Officials say the California-based 23andMe collects and analyzes people’s genetic code and uses DNA samples for a variety of purposes, including helping people trace their ancestry and detect personal health risks. The company, which filed for bankruptcy last month, announced plans to sell its assets. Given the sensitive consumer data 23andMe has amassed, Attorney General Coleman is reminding Kentuckians of their rights under the Kentucky Genetic Information Privacy Act. Kentuckians have the right to delete the consumer’s account and genetic data and the right to request and obtain the destruction of any samples of genetic material held by the company.

“We have laws in place that protect Kentuckians’ rights and their personal information,” said Attorney General Coleman. “Every Kentuckian who did business with 23andMe should consider taking the proper steps to safeguard their sensitive information.”

AG Coleman says consumers can delete their account and personal information by taking the following steps:

1. Log into their 23andMe account on the company’s website.
2. Go to the “Settings” section of the person’s profile.
3. Scroll to a section labeled “23andMe Data” at the bottom of the page.
4. Click “View” next to “23andMe Data.”
5. Download the data: If anyone wants a copy of their genetic data for personal storage, they should choose the option to download it to their device before proceeding.
6. Scroll to the “Delete Data” section.
7. Click “Permanently Delete Data.”
8. Confirm the request: The person will receive an email from 23andMe. People should follow the link in the email to confirm their deletion request.

To destroy the 23andMe test sample  

Officials say if someone has previously opted to have their saliva sample and DNA stored by 23andMe, but if they want to change that preference, they can do so from their account settings page, under “Preferences.”  

To revoke permission for the genetic data to be used for research  

AG Coleman says if someone previously consented to 23andMe and third-party researchers using their genetic data and sample for research, the person may withdraw consent from the account settings page under “Research and Product Consents.”