Att'y Gen. Drummond issues consumer alert for concerned 23andMe customers

Drummond issues consumer alert for concerned 23andMe customers

OKLAHOMA CITY (May 9, 2025) – Attorney General Gentner Drummond is alerting Oklahoma consumers in the wake of 23andMe having filed for bankruptcy protection last month. The genetic testing company, which collects and analyzes the genetic code of consumers, has indicated its intent to sell its corporate assets, a move likely to include stored genetic data submitted by customers.

“The implications of 23andMe selling genetic information to the highest bidder are understandably very concerning to Oklahomans who have used the company’s services,” Drummond said. “While the situation is troubling, there are easy steps that consumers can take to proactively safeguard their privacy.”

The Attorney General Office offers the following tips for interested consumers:

To delete genetic data from 23andMe

1. Log into your 23andMe account on its website. 
2. Go to "Settings" in your profile.
3. Scroll to the "23andMe Data" section at the bottom of the page. 
4. Click "View" next to "23andMe Data."
5. Download your data. If you want a copy of your data for personal storage, select the option to download to your device before proceeding.
6. Scroll to the "Delete Data" section. 
7. Click "Permanently Delete Data." 
8. You will receive an email from 23andMe to confirm the deletion request.

To destroy your 23andMe test sample

If you have opted to have your saliva sample and DNA stored by 23andMe but want to change that preference, you can do so on your account settings page, under "Preferences."

To revoke research consent regarding your genetic data

You can withdraw consent in research through your 23andMe account settings, under "Research and Product Consents."