Vermont Joins Multistate Lawsuit Against 23andMe’s Asset Sale
Winooski, VT — Vermont has joined a coalition of 28 states and the District of Columbia in a legal battle to block the sale of 23andMe’s assets, particularly concerning the sensitive personal data of approximately 15 million customers. This lawsuit arises in light of the genetic testing company’s recent bankruptcy filing and the risk of auctioning off consumers’ private information, including DNA, biological samples, and medical records, without their consent.
Attorney General Charity Clark emphasized the importance of protecting Vermonters’ genetic data, stating, “Genetic information is some of the most sensitive information a company can hold about a person. Vermonters’ genetic information shouldn’t be up for sale without their consent.” The lawsuit contends that such data cannot be sold without explicit approval from consumers, a principle at the heart of privacy protection efforts.
23andMe, once valued at $6 billion, has faced financial decline due to diminishing consumer interest and significant data breaches that impacted nearly 7 million users in 2023. Following these incidents, the company entered a $30 million class-action settlement, highlighting the ongoing concerns regarding data security and consumer trust.
As the case unfolds, state authorities, including those from Vermont, are advocating for the safeguarding of individuals’ genetic information in light of corporate mismanagement and the increasing commercialization of personal data. The legal proceedings aim to ensure that consumers retain control over their sensitive information despite 23andMe’s financial difficulties.
The Attorney General’s Office did not provide immediate comments on further developments or the potential implications for consumers in Vermont and beyond.
————————————————————————
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
————————————————————————
