The recent bankruptcy of genetic testing firm 23andMe, which provides users with the ability to send a saliva sample for comprehensive DNA analysis, has raised hopes that such data could be transformative for solving unsolved criminal cases.
“Having more genetic data potentially helps law enforcement crack cold cases,” said Eric Brown, founder and CEO of Imperio Consulting, in a conversation with Fox News Digital. “Where authorities once had no DNA access, the potential sale of this data could offer them new genetic information previously unavailable.”
Historically, 23andMe was resistant to sharing customer data with law enforcement, though the company would comply with legitimate court orders or subpoenas. According to their Transparency Report, they received 15 law enforcement requests but did not fulfill any.
“The sale of 23andMe could increase the database by millions of records that they didn’t have access to before,” Brown said. “The least sliver of DNA from a criminal could 100% help law enforcement.”
The rise and fall of 23andMe: Peak to plateau to panic
Eran Barak, CEO of MIND, a data security firm, told Fox News Digital that interest plateaued in DNA testing companies following their growth in the 2010s.
Barak said the companies’ downfall was due to market saturation, fewer consumers interested in recreational genealogy and rising consumer wariness about how their sensitive data is handled.
“When your DNA is compromised, it’s not just a password reset. It’s permanent,” he said.
“The breach raised alarm among customers concerned about their privacy and how DNA-testing firms handle their data,” Barak said. “Genetic data is arguably the most sensitive form of personally identifiable information (PII). It can reveal predispositions to disease, familial relationships and even be used in criminal investigations.”
The plateauing interest in recreational genealogy services moved many companies towards monetizing customer data through partnerships with pharmaceutical and research institutions.
“The 23andMe bankruptcy isn’t just about business mismanagement or market downturns; it reflects growing skepticism around personal genetic data, rising concerns over PHI (Protected Health Information) and PII (Personally Identifiable Information) security, and broader shifts in how consumers engage with biotech and digital health platforms,” Barak said.
Fox News Digital has reached out to 23andMe for comment.
Fox News Digital’s Audrey Conklin contributed to this report.
