BUSINESS

Des Moines: Iowa joins multistate 23andMe settlement

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Iowa, United States, is among 42 states that have reached a settlement with genetics and biotechnology company 23andMe after a large-scale data breach disclosed in 2023. According to the Iowa Attorney General’s Office, the breach affected nearly 7 million people and exposed customers’ genetic ancestry information, personal details and other data, some of which later appeared for sale on the dark web. The settlement will provide money to Iowa and the other participating states, resolving claims related to the company’s handling and protection of sensitive consumer data. The action follows the filing for bankruptcy by 23andMe, which has come under increased scrutiny for the scope and sensitivity of information compromised in the incident. In response to the breach and the settlement, authorities are directing affected consumers to information on how they can manage, restrict or delete their genetic data from the company’s systems. Officials say these steps are intended to help individuals reduce potential future risks tied to the exposure of their personal and genetic information and to reinforce expectations for stronger data security practices by similar companies.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2023 Lawsuit filed over 23andMe data breach
2023 Breach exposes genetic ancestry and personal information
2023 Stolen customer data appears on dark web
Early 2024 23andMe reportedly files for bankruptcy
Mid 2024 Iowa joins 42-state 23andMe settlement
Mid 2024 Settlement directs money to participating states
Mid 2024 Officials outline data deletion options
Today Iowa Attorney General details breach impact

Why This Matters to You

Your genetic data is a part of your identity. If you've used 23andMe, your information may have been exposed. This breach could potentially affect your privacy and safety. Check if you were affected and learn how to manage your data.

The Bottom Line

This settlement is a wake-up call for companies handling sensitive data. It shows the need for stronger data security practices. Remember, your genetic information is valuable. Protect it. Worth forwarding if you know someone who's used 23andMe.