California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a consumer alert for customers of the genetics company 23andMe, after it was disclosed that they were facing serious financial distress.
Given the highly sensitive nature of the genetic data the company holds, Bonta is reminding California residents of their rights under the Genetic Information Privacy Act (GIPA) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). These laws grant consumers the right to delete their genetic data, destroy any stored biological samples, and withdraw consent for their information to be used in research.
Bonta encouraged customers to take action by logging into their 23andMe account and accessing the settings page, where they can delete their data, change sample storage preferences, or revoke research permissions. With the future of 23andMe uncertain, Bonta emphasized that California residents should consider using their privacy rights to protect their personal information.
Review his official press release to learn more.