Learn how to delete your 23andMe genetic data, protect your privacy, and understand what information remains after deletion. Complete step-by-step guide for 2025.
The genetic testing industry has faced unprecedented challenges in 2025, with 23andMe’s recent bankruptcy and subsequent acquisition raising serious questions about customer data privacy. If you’re among the 15 million people who have shared their DNA with 23andMe, understanding how to protect your genetic information has never been more critical.
Why You Should Consider Deleting Your 23andMe Data
The landscape for genetic testing companies has shifted dramatically. Following 23andMe’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in March 2025, privacy advocates and security experts have urged customers to take immediate action to safeguard their biological information. The company’s turbulent period, which culminated in co-founder Anne Wojcicki reacquiring control for $305 million through her nonprofit TTAM Research Institute, has highlighted the vulnerability of personal genetic data.
More than two dozen states have filed lawsuits challenging the potential sale of customers’ private data, emphasizing that explicit consent must be obtained before transferring personal information to any new entity. This legal action underscores the importance of taking proactive steps to protect your genetic privacy.
Remarkably, approximately 1.9 million people—about 15% of 23andMe’s customer base—have already requested deletion of their genetic data, demonstrating widespread concern about data security and privacy.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Delete Your 23andMe Account Data
Primary Data Deletion Process
Deleting your 23andMe data requires accessing your account and following a specific sequence of steps:
- Log into your 23andMe account using your registered credentials
- Navigate to Settings in your profile section
- Locate the “23andMe Data” section and scroll down to find this option
- Click “View” to access your data management options
- Find the “Delete Data” section within the expanded menu
- Select “Permanently Delete Data” to initiate the deletion process
- Check your email for a confirmation link from 23andMe
- Click the confirmation link to finalize your deletion request
Optional: Download Your Data First
Before permanently deleting your information, you have the option to download a copy of your genetic data. This allows you to retain your results while removing them from 23andMe’s servers. Consider this option if you want to preserve your genetic information for personal records or future use with other services.
Understanding Data Retention Limitations
What Information 23andMe Retains
It’s crucial to understand that complete data deletion isn’t always possible. According to 23andMe’s privacy policy, the company will retain certain information even after you request deletion:
- Genetic Information (required for legal compliance)
- Date of birth and sex (mandatory retention)
- Limited account information including email address
- Account deletion request identifier
- Communication records related to inquiries or complaints
- Legal agreements for compliance and audit purposes
This retention policy means that while you can remove much of your data, some information may remain in 23andMe’s systems for an unspecified period to meet legal, contractual, and compliance requirements.
Research Data Considerations
If your genetic information has already been shared with research partners or stored in backup systems, this data typically cannot be retrieved or deleted. This limitation highlights the importance of carefully considering research participation before opting in.
Managing Sample Storage and Research Permissions
Revoking Sample Storage Permission
If you previously agreed to have your saliva sample and DNA stored by 23andMe, you can change this setting:
- Access your account settings page
- Navigate to “Preferences”
- Modify your sample storage preferences
Withdrawing Research Consent
To prevent future use of your genetic data for research purposes:
- Go to your account settings
- Find “Research and Product Consents”
- Withdraw consent for 23andMe and third-party research use
While you can revoke future consent, remember that data already used in research studies cannot be removed from those projects.
Protecting Your Family’s Genetic Privacy
The Importance of Family Communication
Your genetic data doesn’t exist in isolation—it affects your biological relatives. When you delete your 23andMe data, consider discussing privacy concerns with family members who may have also used genetic testing services. Encourage them to evaluate their own data privacy preferences and take similar protective actions if desired.
Broader Privacy Considerations
Genetic information is uniquely sensitive because it reveals details not just about you, but about your biological relatives. This interconnected nature means that protecting genetic privacy often requires coordinated family action.
Additional Privacy Protection Strategies
Monitor Your Account Activity
Regularly check your 23andMe account for any unusual activity or unauthorized access. Change your password if you notice anything suspicious, and ensure you’re using a strong, unique password for your account.
Stay Informed About Policy Changes
Keep track of updates to 23andMe’s privacy policies and terms of service. Companies may modify their data handling practices, and staying informed helps you make educated decisions about your genetic information.
Consider Alternative Genetic Testing Services
If you’re interested in genetic testing but concerned about data privacy, research alternative services that may offer stronger privacy protections or different data handling policies.
The Future of Genetic Data Privacy
The challenges facing 23andMe reflect broader concerns about genetic data privacy in the digital age. As genetic testing becomes more common and valuable, understanding how to protect your biological information becomes increasingly important.
The legal actions taken by multiple states regarding 23andMe’s data handling practices may establish important precedents for genetic privacy rights. These developments underscore the evolving nature of genetic data protection and the importance of individual action in safeguarding personal information.
Conclusion
Deleting your 23andMe data is a straightforward process, but understanding its limitations is essential for making informed decisions about your genetic privacy. While complete data removal isn’t always possible due to legal and compliance requirements, taking action to delete accessible data and revoke permissions provides meaningful protection.
The recent upheaval in the genetic testing industry serves as a reminder that personal biological information requires careful protection. By following the steps outlined in this guide and staying informed about your privacy rights, you can take control of your genetic data and make decisions that align with your personal privacy preferences.
Remember that protecting genetic privacy often involves family considerations, so don’t hesitate to discuss these important privacy decisions with your relatives who may also be affected by genetic data sharing.