Genealogy is a big thing for many Kentucky residents and many have had their DNA checked, looking for unknown relatives across the country and beyond. But, with one of the companies that provide that service filing bankruptcy, state officials are issuing warnings to Kentuckians who may have used that service.
Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman issued a consumer alert Wednesday, encouraging Kentuckians to protect their genetic data following the announcement that 23andMe’s was filing bankruptcy.
The California-based company collects and analyzes people’s genetic code and uses DNA samples for a variety of purposes, including helping people trace their ancestry and detect personal health risks. The company, which filed for bankruptcy last month, announced plans to sell its assets.
With all of this under consideration, Coleman reminds the state’s residents of their rights under the Kentucky Genetic Information Privacy Act. Under that act, Kentucky residents have the right to delete their account and data, as well as the right to request and obtain the destruction of any samples of genetic material held by the company.
Details on how to close out the account and get rid of your personal data can be found by clicking here.
