23andMe · 23andMe Privacy Statement

Genetic Data Retention After Account Deletion

Medium severity
Share 𝕏 Share in Share

Why it matters

Even after you delete your account, information derived from your DNA may persist in aggregated research datasets — meaning true and complete erasure of your genetic contribution may not be possible.

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/.

Applicable agencies

  • FTC
    The FTC oversees whether companies accurately represent their data deletion practices to consumers.
    File a complaint →

Provision details

Document information
Document
23andMe Privacy Statement
Entity
23andMe
Document last updated
March 24, 2026
Tracking information
First tracked
March 20, 2026
Last verified
March 20, 2026
Record ID
CA-P-000906
Document ID
CA-D-00148
Evidence Provenance
Source URL
Wayback Machine
SHA-256
844495d7dee785114a99561b45c570c06ec624efeede6528fc52ced0ba522f1b
Verified
✓ Snapshot stored   ✓ Change verified
How to Cite
ConductAtlas Policy Archive
Entity: 23andMe | Document: 23andMe Privacy Statement | Record: CA-P-000906
Captured: 2026-03-20 10:27:43 UTC | SHA-256: 844495d7dee78511…
URL: https://conductatlas.com/platform/23andme/23andme-privacy-statement/genetic-data-retention-after-account-deletion/
Accessed: April 4, 2026
Classification
Severity
Medium
Categories

Other provisions in this document