23andMe · 23andMe Terms of Service

Genetic Data Research Use

High severity
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Why it matters

Your DNA is uniquely identifying even when anonymized, and sharing it with third parties for research — even in aggregate form — carries risks of re-identification that could affect your privacy and potentially your family members who never consented.

Consumer impact

By agreeing to these Terms, you waive your right to participate in class action lawsuits against 23andMe and must resolve most disputes through individual arbitration, which significantly limits your legal recourse. Your payments are generally non-refundable, and 23andMe may use de-identified versions of your genetic data for research purposes. You can opt out of the arbitration clause by sending written notice to 23andMe within 30 days of first accepting the Terms.

Applicable agencies

  • FTC
    The FTC oversees data privacy and consumer protection practices, including how companies handle and share sensitive genetic data with third parties.
    File a complaint →
  • Hhs Ocr
    While 23andMe is not a traditional HIPAA-covered entity, genetic data privacy complaints may be relevant to HHS oversight of health-related personal data practices.
    File a complaint →

Provision details

Document information
Document
23andMe Terms of Service
Entity
23andMe
Document last updated
March 24, 2026
Tracking information
First tracked
March 20, 2026
Last verified
March 20, 2026
Record ID
CA-P-000891
Document ID
CA-D-00147
Evidence Provenance
Source URL
Wayback Machine
SHA-256
7e93b42fb3bdab478b53b49966e43f287711b2cafdd810994f4abc7aa562b4bf
Verified
✓ Snapshot stored   ✓ Change verified
How to Cite
ConductAtlas Policy Archive
Entity: 23andMe | Document: 23andMe Terms of Service | Record: CA-P-000891
Captured: 2026-03-20 07:05:17 UTC | SHA-256: 7e93b42fb3bdab47…
URL: https://conductatlas.com/platform/23andme/23andme-terms-of-service/genetic-data-research-use/
Accessed: April 4, 2026
Classification
Severity
High
Categories

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