23andMe, a genetic testing company that filed for bankruptcy earlier this year, is facing legal action from North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson. The lawsuit aims to prevent the sale of genetic data collected from over 15 million customers nationwide without their consent. This includes residents of North Carolina who have submitted biological samples or personal information to the company.
The North Carolina Department of Justice (NCDOJ) had been investigating 23andMe following a data breach in 2023 that potentially compromised millions of individuals’ genetic data. As part of this investigation, Attorney General Jackson secured a consent order to appoint a consumer privacy ombudsman. This ombudsman will advocate for consumers’ privacy and security interests during the company’s sale process. Affected consumers have until July 14, 2025, to file claims against 23andMe related to the breach.
Attorney General Jackson advises users of 23andMe’s services in North Carolina to delete their data from the platform promptly. Once users confirm their request for deletion, the process begins immediately, resulting in loss of access to their accounts.
The lawsuit is supported by attorneys general from multiple states including Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, and others across the country.
