23andMe is filing for bankruptcy, as I detailed in this article. If your DNA is stored with them — or other genetic testing companies — now’s the time to take control.

Below is a sample letter you can use to request your data be permanently deleted from their databases. I’ve included the email addresses you’ll need in the article.

🟥 Click the red button to open your email program with the message pre-filled. 

NOTE: If that doesn’t work, no worries — just copy and paste the text below into a new email.

Your DNA. Your rights. Take action now.

Draft email

Subject: Formal Request for Complete Deletion of Personal and Genetic Data

Dear [Company Name] Privacy Team,

I am formally requesting the complete and permanent deletion of all personal, account, and genetic data associated with my profile, as allowed under state data privacy laws including, but not limited to:

  • California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA/CPRA)
  • Virginia VCDPA, Colorado CPA, Connecticut CTDPA, Utah UCPA, and other applicable state privacy laws

This request covers all data, including:

  • Raw DNA and test results
  • Health or ancestry reports
  • Account details and usage logs
  • Metadata, notes, and communications
  • Information shared with third parties or affiliates
  • All stored backups and archived copies
  • Any biological sample on file (if applicable)

Please confirm the following:

  1. No copies of my data will be retained in any form — including backups,   archives, or cold storage.
  2. My data will not be used, sold, licensed, transferred, or shared now or in the future.
  3. My biological sample has been or will be permanently destroyed.

For verification, my account is associated with this email: [Insert Your Email]

You may reach me at: [Insert Phone Number]

Per applicable state data privacy regulations, I expect confirmation of receipt and completion of this request within the legally mandated 30 to 45 days. Please provide written confirmation and any case reference ID once the deletion is complete.

Thank you,

[Your Full Name]

[Optional: Account ID or Mailing Address]