Attorney General Ellison issues updated consumer alert about 23andMe bankruptcy

September 10, 2025 (SAINT PAUL) — Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is issuing an updated consumer alert, to inform Minnesotans about important new information involving the bankruptcy of genetic data company, 23andMe.

As part of its bankruptcy proceedings, 23andMe through a bidding process, arranged an equity sale and sold the company to TTAM Research Institute, a California nonprofit, formed by 23andMe’s founder and former CEO, Anne Wojcicki. On July 17, 2025, TTAM Research Institute filed an amendment with the California Secretary of State changing its corporate name from “TTAM Research Institute” to “23andMe Research Institute.” The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, along with a coalition of Attorneys General, objected to the sale which the court overruled. Prior to the court overruling the States’ objection, the States were able to reach an agreement to include in the final sale agreement additional consumer protections. These consumer protections include an appointment of a consumer privacy ombudsman, the ability for consumers to retain their right to delete their account and all their data into perpetuity, and 23andMe Research Institute will comply with annual independent external audits to ensure data is safeguarded from potential threats and is secure and confidential. 23andMe Research Institute will also provide a summary of the audit to state regulators upon request.

What Minnesota consumers need to know:

1. How to obtain information about the bankruptcy.
Consumers can obtain information regarding the bankruptcy on the Kroll website located at: https://restructuring.ra.kroll.com/23andMe/EPOC-Index.

2. Minnesota consumers can delete their genetic data.
How to delete your 23andMe account:
1. Go to “Settings”
2. Scroll to “23andMe Data” and click “View.”
3. Download data if desired
4. Scroll to “Delete Data” and click “Permanently Delete Data.”
5. Confirm via the email instructions sent by 23andMe.