23andMe: A New Chapter in Data Ownership

The recent bankruptcy of genetic data company 23andMe has sparked discussions about data sovereignty and the potential benefits blockchains could offer in protecting public data. Phil Mataras, CEO of AR.IO, a decentralized cloud network, highlights how the Sei Foundation's potential purchase of 23andMe could be a game-changer.

While the likelihood of the Sei Foundation acquiring 23andMe remains uncertain, the notion of a Web3 company rescuing a struggling Web2 giant is intriguing. This scenario could not only challenge established tech giants but also revolutionize the data industry.

The acquisition may bring about a shift in public perception regarding data security and privacy. While people have long been aware of tech companies like Meta and Google harvesting their data for commercial gain, the prospect of sensitive DNA information being up for sale is alarming.

23andMe Is a Wake-Up Call on Data Sovereignty

Whether the Sei Foundation buys 23andMe, or not, the genetic data company’s bankruptcy shows the perils of centralized data collection and how blockchains can protect the public, says Phil Mataras, founder and CEO of decentralized cloud network AR.IO.

This situation might serve as a wake-up call for individuals to take ownership of their data. Decentralized blockchain technology could empower users to control their information securely. Platforms like Sei and Arweave offer secure storage solutions that prioritize user privacy and permanence.

The possible sale of 23andMe represents a significant moment for advocating data self-sovereignty. As trust in centralized entities erodes, this event could mark a pivotal moment in history, reshaping perceptions and utilization of Web3 technologies.

Beyond that, a deal would be a win for public understanding for data security and privacy. While we have all been vaguely aware of how Meta, Google, Apple, etc., take and use our data, we have chosen to ignore that for the convenience it affords us.

It’s one thing when Facebook and Instagram are tracking our shopping and consumer habits and making our sensitive messages and emails vulnerable to leaks. With 23andMe, we’re talking DNA data; the very fabric of our human bodies has just been green-flagged for sale to the highest bidder.

Perhaps, finally, this is a turning point at which the public may seriously come to understand the importance of owning their own data. Maybe more people will realize that to keep their data truly safe, they have full control of it themselves through the use of decentralized blockchain technology.

Of course, not every blockchain is created equal. However, Sei certainly claims to be highly secure, and projects like Arweave – which is a permanent storage chain built on a “pay one store forever” model – have applications that can allow you to upload and store your data privately, securely and permanently.

This is a watershed moment for people to understand the importance of data self-sovereignty. And it comes at a time when trust in centralized organizations, companies, and even governments is breaking down. As such, the 23andMe sale could mark a true turning point in history, and one that could reshape how Web3 is seen, understood and utilized.