Legal Experts Warn: Genetic Data Breaches Pose Significant Intellectual Property Risks

Intellectual property law firm The Patent Baron PLLC is advising clients to take immediate action to protect their genetic and personal data in the wake of 23andMe's bankruptcy and recent data breach that exposed information of approximately seven million Americans.

The firm emphasizes that genetic information is not merely health data, but a complex repository of personal and potentially valuable intellectual property that could have far-reaching implications for individuals and businesses in biotechnology and diagnostics.

Following 23andMe's Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing on March 23, 2025, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel recommended that users consider deleting their accounts and requesting destruction of their stored data and DNA samples. The Patent Baron is echoing this advice, particularly for inventors, scientists, and entrepreneurs in health-related sectors.

The potential risks extend beyond personal privacy, touching on critical intellectual property concerns. Genetic data can reveal family lineage, inheritance patterns, and potentially valuable biotech research insights. Without proper safeguards, this information could be misused or monetized without an individual's consent.

To mitigate these risks, The Patent Baron recommends a three-step approach: completely deleting 23andMe account data, destroying stored DNA samples, and revoking research consent for third-party data sharing.

This situation underscores a growing challenge in the digital age: the intersection of personal data, genetic information, and intellectual property rights. As genetic testing and biotech research continue to advance, professionals must remain vigilant about protecting sensitive information that could have significant legal and economic implications.

The data breach and subsequent bankruptcy serve as a critical warning for professionals across industries. It highlights the need for robust data protection strategies and heightened awareness of how personal genetic information can become an unexpected vulnerability for intellectual property.