A new owner of 23andMe would inherit your DNA data and could operate under different privacy standards, and you may have limited ability to prevent this transfer.
Consumer impact
23andMe collects highly sensitive genetic and health data that can reveal predispositions to serious diseases and relate to biological relatives who never consented to testing. The company may share de-identified genetic data with pharmaceutical and research partners if you opt into the Research program, and can disclose personal data to law enforcement in response to valid legal process. You can opt out of research participation, request sample discard, or delete your account entirely through your account settings at https://www.23andme.com/settings/.
What you can do
β οΈ These actions may provide transparency or partial mitigation but may not fully address the underlying issue. Effectiveness varies by jurisdiction and individual circumstances.
Delete Your Data
Log into your 23andMe account, navigate to Settings, and select the option to delete your account. This will also automatically opt you out of Research and discard your sample β note this process cannot be reversed.
Applicable agencies
FTC
The FTC has previously intervened in data asset transfers during bankruptcy to protect consumers, and has authority over deceptive privacy practices.