Genetic data company 23andMe has announced that hackers breached their system, compromising the genetic information of a staggering 6.9 million individuals. The breach occurred in October 2023, initially affecting 14,000 users, but further investigation revealed a significant impact on a larger number of individuals.
Founded in 2006 by Anne Wojcicki, former wife of Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google (and sister of Susan Wojcicki, former CEO of YouTube), 23andMe utilizes DNA testing to provide individuals with insights into their ancestry and genetic makeup. The company went public on the Nasdaq stock market in 2021, using the ticker symbol ME.
One of 23andMe’s services, DNA Relatives, allows users to share their genetic information to find relatives or connect with potential family members. Over 5.5 million individuals have participated in this program, sharing personal details such as names, birth years, relationship statuses, shared DNA percentages, and residential addresses. Additionally, another 1.4 million users have provided their family tree data, which was also accessed by unauthorized parties. In total, the breach has impacted a staggering 6.9 million users.
23andMe has taken immediate action by notifying affected users and implementing two-step verifications for all users in order to enhance security measures.
TLDR: Genetic data company 23andMe experienced a significant security breach, compromising the personal information of 6.9 million users. The breach, which occurred in October 2023, impacted individuals participating in the DNA Relatives and Family Tree services. The company has taken steps to address the situation, including notifying affected users and implementing enhanced security measures.
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