This wasn't just a typical data breach involving names and email addresses; it was a theft of the most personal biological information of millions of individuals. The implications of such data falling into the wrong hands are far-reaching and potentially life-altering for those affected.
The Fallout
The immediate consequences of the breach were severe:
Legal Repercussions: 23andMe faced a barrage of lawsuits from affected customers. In September 2023, the company agreed to pay $30 million to settle these legal claims.
Reputational Damage: The breach severely undermined public trust in 23andMe's ability to safeguard sensitive genetic information.