The Brian Lehrer Show
Should You Delete Your 23andMe Data -- Even if it's Important to You?
Apr 1, 2025
Max Eddy, a writer at Wirecutter specializing in privacy, security, and software, discusses the implications of 23andMe's bankruptcy. He dives into the risks of genetic data misuse, especially concerning law enforcement access. The conversation highlights the ethical dilemmas users face regarding their personal information. Eddy also provides insights on navigating the complexities of deleting genetic data and emphasizes the importance of data privacy and informed consent in genetic testing services.
10:19
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Quick takeaways
- The bankruptcy of 23andMe raises significant privacy concerns, prompting users to consider deleting their genetic data to prevent misuse.
- The complex process of deleting data from 23andMe highlights user challenges and the importance of understanding privacy implications before using genetic testing services.
Deep dives
The Impact of Genetic Testing on Personal Discovery
Genetic testing services like 23andMe have transformed how individuals discover their ancestry and connect with family members. Such services have facilitated life-changing encounters, including uncovering unknown siblings and biological parents, as experienced by one individual who found a half-sister through 23andMe. However, with the recent bankruptcy filing of 23andMe, anxiety arises regarding the privacy of the genetic information users have provided. Many people are now faced with the decision of whether to delete their data to protect their sensitive information from potential misuse by future owners.
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