On Monday, the genetic testing company 23andMe announced that it will make 40% of its workforce, around 200 employees, redundant. The decision comes as part of a broader restructuring plan to refocus on its core consumer business and enhance research partnerships. CEO Anne Wojcicki stressed the necessity of these tough choices to secure the long-term success of the company. The company also revealed that it is exploring strategic alternatives, such as licensing agreements and asset sales.
23andMe has been facing mounting challenges following the October 2023 data breach that affected 6.9 million users and resulted in a joint investigation from the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC).
Meanwhile, BBC News reports that DNA-testing company Atlas Biomed, based in London, has apparently ceased trading without informing its customers about what has happened to the highly sensitive personal data that it held about them. The ICO has acknowledged receiving complaints about the company from customers concerned over the lack of communication regarding their personal information. The ICO said in a statement that: "People have the right to expect that organisations will handle their personal information securely and responsibly."
Further attempts by the BBC to reach out to Atlas Biomed for comments have also failed.
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