So, you’ve spit in a tube, unlocked your ancestry secrets, and maybe even discovered a long-lost cousin. But now you’re thinking, “Wait… how to delete 23andme data?”
Maybe you’re concerned about privacy, tired of marketing emails, or just want a clean digital slate. Whatever your reason, deleting your 23andMe account isn’t as simple as hitting a “delete” button. But don’t worry—I’ve done the research so you don’t have to.
In this no-BS guide, I’ll walk you through:
✔ How to delete your 23andMe account permanently
✔ What happens to your DNA data after deletion
✔ Alternatives to deletion (if you’re not ready to fully commit)
✔ Common roadblocks (and how to avoid them)
Let’s get into it.
Why Would Someone Delete Their 23andMe Data?
Before we jump into the how, let’s talk about the why. People delete their 23andMe data for all kinds of reasons:
🔹 Privacy concerns – Worried about who has access to your genetic info?
🔹 Data breaches – After past incidents, some users want out.
🔹 Account clutter – Maybe you just don’t use it anymore.
🔹 Changing your mind – You got your ancestry report and now you’re done.
Whatever your reason, you have the right to delete your data—but 23andMe doesn’t make it super obvious.
What Happens When You Delete Your 23andMe Account?
Before you pull the trigger, know this:
✅ Your profile, DNA results, and personal info are erased
✅ You lose access to ancestry & health reports forever
✅ Relatives won’t see you in their DNA matches anymore
But…
❌ 23andMe may keep some anonymized data for research (unless you opt out separately)
❌ If you shared data with family, they might still have access to shared segments
Bottom line: Deleting is permanent. If you think you might want your data later, consider downloading it first (I’ll show you how).
Step 1: Download Your Data (Before You Delete!)
Once your account is gone, your DNA data is gone for good. So if you want a backup, do this first:
- Log in to your 23andMe account.
- Go to Settings (click your profile icon → Settings).
- Select “Download Raw Data” under 23andMe Data.
- Choose the format (.txt or .csv) and confirm.
- Wait for an email with your download link (can take up to 24 hours).
Pro Tip: Store this file securely—it contains your full genetic code!
Step 2: Actually Delete Your 23andMe Account
Now, the main event. Here’s how to permanently delete everything:
Option 1: Delete Through Website
- Log in to your 23andMe account.
- Go to Account Settings → Delete Account.
- Enter your password (they’ll make you confirm).
- Select a reason (optional, but they’ll ask).
- Click “Delete Account” – poof, it’s gone.
Option 2: Delete via Email
If you can’t log in (or the website glitches), email:
📧 privacy@23andme.com
Subject: “Request for Account Deletion”
Body: “Please permanently delete my account and all associated data. My registered email is [your email].”
Note: They should process this within 30 days (but follow up if they don’t).
What If You Change Your Mind?
23andMe does not offer account recovery after deletion. If you want your data back, you’d have to:
🔸 Buy another kit ($99+)
🔸 Spit in a new tube
🔸 Wait 4-6 weeks for new results
Moral of the story? Be 100% sure before deleting.
Alternatives to Full Deletion
Not ready to nuke everything? Try these instead:
1. Remove DNA Relatives Access
Don’t want family finding you? Go to:
Settings → DNA Relatives → Edit Preferences → Remove All Connections
2. Opt Out of Research
To stop 23andMe from using your data for studies:
Settings → Research Preferences → Withdraw Consent
3. Delete Specific Info
You can manually erase:
- Profile details (name, birth year, location)
- Health reports
- Linked family tree data
Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)
🚫 “I can’t find the delete button!”
→ It’s hidden! Go to Settings → Account → Delete Account.
🚫 “23andMe won’t let me delete!”
→ Email privacy@23andme.com with a GDPR/CCPA request (if in EU/California).
🚫 “I deleted my account, but my DNA is still in research!”
→ Email them to opt out of research separately.
Final Verdict: Should You Delete?
✅ Delete if:
- You’re done with 23andMe for good
- Privacy is your #1 concern
- You’ve already downloaded your data
❌ Don’t delete if:
- You might want your ancestry/health reports later
- You’re just annoyed with emails (unsubscribe instead!)
FAQ: Quick Answers
Q: How long does it take to delete?
A: Usually immediate, but research data may take 30 days.
Q: Can I delete my parent’s or child’s account?
A: Only if you manage their account (or have legal authority).
Q: Does 23andMe sell my data?
A: They anonymize & use it for research (unless you opt out).
Q: What if I used a fake name?
A: Still delete! Your DNA itself is tied to the account.
Final Thoughts – How to delete 23andme data
Deleting your 23andMe data is a big decision—but if you’re sure, now you know exactly how to do it. Just remember:
🔹 Download your data first (you can’t get it back!)
🔹 Deleting is permanent (no take-backsies)
🔹 Email privacy@23andme.com if the website gives you trouble
