HOUSTON – 23andMe, the popular at-home genetic testing company, has helped millions of people uncover their family roots and health risks through DNA analysis.
However, recent financial troubles have raised concerns for its 15 million customers, especially about what could happen to their sensitive genetic data if the company goes under. Some fear that their personal information could be sold or used in ways they never expected.
Sandy Zimmer of Houston purchased a kit a few years ago off whim. In the back of her mind, she did think about her family health.
“Both my parents passed away from cancer,” Zimmer said. “So, you want to see the likelihood of having something like that crop up. But that was back in the day when everyone smoked.”
“The more you think about it, the more concerning it becomes,” she added.
Financial Trouble and the Risk to Personal Data
As headlines highlight the company’s uncertain future, many customers are left wondering: what happens to the DNA data they’ve submitted?
23andMe, which has gained millions of users eager to learn about their ancestry and genetic health risks, is currently facing major financial difficulties. The company’s stock value has plummeted by 98%, raising concerns about its long-term viability. This has sparked questions about whether the company could go bankrupt, and if so, what that would mean for the personal information it holds.
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