abcnews.go.com
23andMe Files for Bankruptcy, Raising Genetic Data Privacy Concerns
23andMe, a genetic testing company, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, raising concerns about the privacy of over 15 million consumers' genetic data, which is not protected by HIPAA, despite 80% opting into research. The company plans to continue operations during a sale process.
- What are the immediate consequences of 23andMe's bankruptcy filing for its customers' genetic data?
- 23andMe, a genetic testing company, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This follows a class-action settlement, board resignations, layoffs, and closure of its drug division. The company plans to continue operations during the sale process, assuring customers that data handling remains unchanged.
- How does 23andMe's privacy policy impact the handling of consumer data in the event of a sale or bankruptcy?
- The bankruptcy raises concerns about the privacy of over 15 million consumers' genetic data. Experts highlight that 23andMe's privacy policy allows data transfer to a new owner, and this new entity could alter the policy, potentially increasing data sharing with law enforcement or employers. Approximately 80% of users opted into research data sharing, which, while anonymized for research, may not be so within 23andMe.
- What are the long-term implications of this bankruptcy for genetic data privacy and the broader landscape of consumer genetic testing?
- Future implications include potential changes in data handling practices by a new owner, potentially impacting data privacy and security for consumers. The lack of HIPAA protection for consumer genetic data raises significant concerns, especially considering the sensitive nature of the information. Consumers are advised to review their options, which include deleting their accounts and requesting sample destruction.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline and introduction immediately highlight the bankruptcy and concerns about user data, setting a negative tone. The article then proceeds to primarily feature expert opinions reinforcing those concerns. While the article does include information on how users can delete their data, the negative framing is consistently maintained throughout.
Language Bias
The article uses language that emphasizes the risks and potential negative outcomes. For example, phrases like "concerns over what will happen," "data breach," and "business troubles" contribute to a negative tone. More neutral phrasing could include terms such as "uncertainty regarding the future of user data," "data security incident," and "financial challenges.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the potential risks to user data post-bankruptcy, but it could benefit from including perspectives from 23andMe or other genetic testing companies about their data security measures and how they plan to address user concerns during the bankruptcy process. Additionally, while the article mentions California's genetic privacy law, a more comprehensive overview of state-level genetic privacy laws and their potential impact on the situation would provide more context.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by focusing primarily on the potential negative consequences of the bankruptcy without sufficiently exploring the possibility that a buyer might maintain or even improve data security practices. The framing emphasizes the risks without adequately presenting a balanced view of potential outcomes.
Sustainable Development Goals
The bankruptcy of 23andMe raises concerns about the privacy and security of sensitive genetic information of over 15 million consumers. This impacts negatively on the SDG target of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages, as the potential misuse or unauthorized access to this data could undermine efforts to provide equitable and quality healthcare.