- Big news in the #DNA testing world this morning: genetic testing company 23andMe has filed for bankruptcy protection 'to facilitate a sale process' and CEO Ann Wojcicki has resigned... #GeneticGenealogy #FamilyHistory #Genealogy www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle...
- This latest news in the saga of 23andMe may not come as a surprise to anyone who's followed their turbulent transit over the past 18 months in particular, particularly since the credential-stuffing breach they suffered in October 2023 #DNA #GeneticGenealogy
- Quite how the sale process will unfold from here is something many of us in the #genetics research community, and those working in data privacy, will be watching closely over the coming days and weeks. #FamilyHistory #GeneticGenealogy
- 23andMe's database currently holds around 15 million autosomal #DNA kits - many of these users this morning will understandably be asking what course of action, if any, they should be taking...
- Deletion? Info and kit downloading? No action? Ultimately only the user themselves can make this decision, following their own assessment of the available info. (I'm NOT a lawyer so none of my posts constitute legal advise!)
- At this stage much uncertainty comes from the road ahead being largely a blank page. Difficult to know what shape the company might take post-sale & if this would leave 23andMe largely intact or (more likely I think) the more valuable parts of it being acquired - see thier statement below:
- One of the main factors likely to be now-former-CEO Ann Wojcicki's plans to purchase 23andMe as an independent bidder. @theguardian.com quotes her as saying: “If I am fortunate enough to secure the company’s assets...I remain committed to our long-term vision of being a global leader in #genetics.”Mar 24, 2025 10:49
- Here's 23andMe's own statement on the implications for, and legal protections governing, the onward use of their #genetic and personal data: #GeneticGenealogy #FamilyHistory #DNA
