PHOENIX Ariz. (KVOA) - Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has issued a consumer alert following the recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by 23andMe. The genetic testing company filed for bankruptcy on March 23, 2025, sparking concerns about the potential sale of customers' genetic data.
Mayes urged Arizonans to exercise their rights under the Arizona Genetic Information Privacy Act, which allows consumers to request the deletion of their genetic data from companies like 23andMe.
“Arizona law allows consumers to take control of their genetic data and request that a company delete it,” Mayes said. “Because of 23andMe’s current financial situation, I urge Arizonans to consider invoking their rights under Arizona law and request a deletion of genetic data held by 23andMe.”
The Arizona Genetic Information Privacy Act, effective since September 29, 2021, ensures that consumers can delete their accounts, genetic data, and request the destruction of biological samples.
23andMe stated that despite the bankruptcy, the company plans to continue operations without changes to data storage or protection. However, the bankruptcy proceedings raise the risk of data being sold.
To delete genetic data, consumers should log into their 23andMe account, navigate to the “Settings” section, and follow the steps to permanently delete their data. They can also revoke consent for their data to be used in research or request the destruction of their test samples.
Arizonans are encouraged to act promptly to protect their sensitive information amidst the ongoing bankruptcy process.
