This is not the first time 23andMe has faced concerns about data privacy and security. Following the use of a DNA database by local police in 2018 to apprehend a suspected serial killer, genetic-testing companies, including 23andMe, promised to disclose law enforcement requests and obtain customers’ explicit consent before sharing genetic information with external parties, including insurance agencies.
The information collected by genetic-testing companies like 23andMe is not currently protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the national health privacy law. Moreover, 23andMe still allows for third-party data sharing, as stated in its privacy policy.
According to a blog post by 23andMe, the hackers likely gained access to individual accounts and used the site’s “DNA Relatives” feature to compile lists of people. Upon discovering the incident, 23andMe collaborated with digital forensics experts and law enforcement. As a precautionary measure, 23andMe is mandating all users to reset their passwords.
If you are concerned about the leak, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself.
Create unique and strong passwords
All 23andMe users should immediately reset their passwords to something they have never used on other websites. Enabling two-factor authentication is also recommended.
According to cybersecurity expert Boyd Clewis, if you can easily remember your password, it is not strong enough. Choose a unique and complex password that
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Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
