The article discusses the recent changes made by 23andMe to its terms of service, which have sparked controversy and raised concerns about the company’s handling of customers’ personal data. Specifically, the changes make it more difficult for customers to opt out of forced arbitration, a process that requires individuals to resolve disputes with the company through private negotiations rather than in court.
According to the article, 23andMe has made several changes to its terms of service, including:
- Forced arbitration: The company now requires customers to try to negotiate a dispute for 60 days before filing an arbitration demand.
- Increased burden on consumers: The new terms make it more difficult for consumers to opt out of forced arbitration and instead require them to file individual suits against the company.
- Class action lawsuit exclusion: 23andMe’s updated terms explicitly exclude class action lawsuits, making it harder for customers to band together and sue the company collectively.
The article notes that these changes have sparked a strong reaction from customers and lawyers alike, with many arguing that they are designed to shield 23andMe from accountability. Some of the concerns raised include:
- Lack of transparency: The company’s handling of personal data has been criticized for being opaque and confusing.
- Abuse of forced arbitration: The use of forced arbitration is seen as a way for companies to avoid accountability and hide their wrongdoing.
- Disproportionate impact on consumers: The changes are likely to have a disproportionate impact on vulnerable individuals, such as those who were affected by the recent data breach.
In response to these concerns, some lawyers and customers have begun filing class action lawsuits against 23andMe, arguing that the company’s actions are unfair and deceptive. The article highlights the following cases:
- Class action lawsuit in Illinois: A woman filed a class action lawsuit against 23andMe on November 13, alleging that the company failed to protect her personal data.
- Class action lawsuits in Canada: Two law firms have filed class action lawsuits on behalf of Canadian victims of the breach.
Overall, the article suggests that 23andMe’s changes to its terms of service are likely to face significant scrutiny and potential litigation from customers, lawyers, and regulatory bodies.
