23andMe is potentially selling more than just genetic data

U.S. 23andMe is potentially selling more than just genetic data. The personal survey info is also a privacy problem. By Kayte Spector-Bagdady April 2, 2025 / 1:22 PM EDT / The Conversation Add CBS News on Google Kayte Spector-Bagdady, is an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Michigan.As soon as the genetic testing company 23andMe filed for bankruptcy on March 23, 2025, concerns about what would happen to the personal information contained in its massive genetic and health information database were swift and widespread. A few days after, a U.S. judge ruled that the company could sell its consumer data as part of the bankruptcy.The attorneys general of several states warned their citizens to delete their genetic data. California urged its citizens to request that 23andMe delete their data and destroy their spit samples. Michigan's attorney general released a statement warning that "23andMe collects and stores some of the most sensitive personal information, our genetic code." When customers originally signed up for 23andMe, they agreed to terms and conditions and a privacy notice that allows the company to use their information for research and development as well as share their data, in aggregate, with third parties. If consumers consented to additional research, which the vast majority did, the company can additionally share their individual information with third parties. 23andMe has also been clear that if it is involved in a bankruptcy or sale of assets, consumer information might be sold or transferred.While 23andMe has warned customers all along about everything that is currently happening, many are still surprised and concerned. I'm a lawyer and bioethicist who has been studying direct-to-consumer genetic testing for almost a decade. Understanding what information 23andMe has been collecting, and how it might be used if sold or shared, can help clarify concerns for consumers.What is 23andMe?In 2007, 23andMe, named after the 2...