DATA BREACH: Genealogical DNA testing

As the curiosity to delve into one’s past and unravel the mysteries of ancestry grows, genealogical DNA tests have surged in popularity. However, in the fast-paced world of technology, data leaks and breaches have sadly become a common occurrence, impacting both individuals and nations.

While there are benefits to taking a DNA test; discovering your ethnic mix or reuniting with distant relatives, there are some elements that need considering. Most importantly, privacy concerns are a substantial matter, influencing the storage and usage of your data. In recent years, it has been far more common for genealogical DNA testing companies to incur data breaches of their systems and thus resulting in leaks of millions of personal data profiles.

In light of recent news, 4 million DNA profiles belonging to British customers of 23andMe have been stolen by a hacker. Posting in an online forum last week, the hacker was offering to sell the names, locations and ethnicities of 23andMe users. This isn’t the first time a data breach on this scale has occurred. In 2017, private servers were found to contain over 92 million account details from genealogy and DNA testing company MyHeritage.

Our interconnected digital age presents a series of challenges as a result of recent leaks that are undeniably concerning. Countries around the world are grappling with similar issues. Citizens should practice persistent vigilance, conduct regular cybersecurity audits, and foster a culture of digital awareness.

Although genealogical DNA tests may provide exciting insights into one’s past, it’s vital to keep an open mind while taking them. Neil Fraser, from Probate Research and Genealogical firm, Fraser and Fraser commented “as humans we have a curious nature, so when given a chance to gain further insight into our heritage it’s only natural that we’d go for something like genealogical DNA testing, it’s quick, it’s cheap and it’s easily accessible.’

‘However, genealogical DNA testing is opening doors for hackers, to an abundance of personal data and DNA-related profile information. When breached the repercussions are far more severe than anticipated.”

Genealogical DNA testing are tools in the grand scheme of genealogical research and do not provide definitive answers. In an era of rapidly advancing technology, it is crucial for society to exercise vigilance when sharing personal information and to stay informed about the methods of data storage and usage.