This clause eliminates your ability to join a class action lawsuit, which is often the only practical way for individual consumers to hold large companies accountable for widespread harms.
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.
What you can do
⚠️ These actions may provide transparency or partial mitigation but may not fully address the underlying issue. Effectiveness varies by jurisdiction and individual circumstances.
Opt Out of Arbitration
Within 30 days
Send a written notice stating your name, account email, and that you are opting out of the arbitration provision to 23andMe's Legal Department by mail within 30 days of first accepting the Terms. Keep a copy of your letter and use certified mail for proof of delivery.
Applicable agencies
FTC
The FTC oversees unfair or deceptive consumer practices, including mandatory arbitration clauses that may disadvantage consumers in genetic data services.
State attorneys general, particularly in California, have authority over consumer protection issues including enforceability of arbitration clauses and class action waivers.