I was one of the first to spit in a test tube, give up my DNA forever to learn more about my genetic health. As you know, those that promise to link you with distant relatives who did not even know their existence or reveal genetic risks to cases such as Alzheimer’s disease or heart disease. These DNA tests are not only curious; People buy them to reveal important health information, communicate with their loved ones, or provide studied gifts.
But this is the thing – and I am talking from the data privacy perspective here – genetic information is of high value and risks to opening very intimate information only unique to you. Although these commercial DNA tests seem harmless, they come with risks that most people do not think immediately. Once you deliver your DNA, you give these companies access to most of your personal data. And believe me, what happens to these data after the test can be unclear.
Human DNA clarification (Cyberguy “Knutsson)
What is the big deal?
Your DNA is more than just a series of letters. It is a unique and permanent plan for your identity. The use of commercial DNA test service can mean delivery not only physical samples but also information about possible medical conditions, preparations, race, family links and even signs of behavior or lifestyle. This can put you at the risk of things such as genetic tests without your consent, increase insurance premiums, health fraud and family secrets that appear on light, and sometimes with painful consequences. one woman She even felt that she had “lost her entire family” after one of these tests was conducted.
Here is Kicker: Even if you choose to stay away from the genetic test game, if anyone involves some of your DNA, like your brother or daughter of your sister, chooses to take one, you can still expose you to many of these risks without them without these risks even you know.
What happens to your genetic data?
Regardless of doing what the services are announced, many DNA testing services may share your genetic data with researchers, marketers, insurance companies and even law enforcement agencies.
In fact, according to recent research, half of the commercial DNA testing services use your genetic data for research (internal and external). Almost half (4 in 10) use it for marketing. Half of nearly half (4 out of 10) share your data with law enforcement agencies, which are likely to be without any kind of summons or court order.
While DNA test companies often use unknown data for many of these purposes, the reality is that “unknown” genetic information is “unknown” Its identity is often repaired When combined with other data sources, sources such as data brokers and search sites for people who hold and sell them from information (such as the lists of weak individuals, such as those who suffer from dementia) that can be used in this purpose.
DNA clarification (Cyberguy “Knutsson)
It displays the violation of huge health care data more
The results may not be what you expected
If you purchase one of these DNA testing groups, you may expect the results to be very reliable. However, I was surprised when I learned that this might not always be. According to Dr. Devia, a vital biological chemist in Kaiser Permanente. Genetic tests at home are not accurate Also your doctor’s medical DNA tests requested. This can lead to unnecessary anxiety or wrong reassurance regarding your health. Even when it comes to race and origin, the results usually depend on the statistical comparisons of the reference population, which Do not necessarily result in accurate resultsEspecially if you are from an ethnic group less degree.
DNA test is conducted (Cyberguy “Knutsson)
Faculty: Violations of health care data reaches their highest levels
The destruction of your genetic samples can be a nightmare
Once you send your DNA to a test company, the sample destruction and associated data are often complex, at the very least. According to a survey, she tried to wipe her genetic imprint, it was “brutally difficult.” Recent events, such as 23ndme, is the norm, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Consumers leave worries about what will happen to their genetic data if a test company is sold or obtained, especially when they do not have an easy way to recover or destroy this data. Often these companies do not reveal where and how your samples are stored, too.
According to INCGNI, the data broker removal service, none of the DNA testing services have been provided with almost any more fundamental information than a “safe facility”. This lack of transparency about the place of storing their data and how it can be destroyed creates a major barrier for anyone trying to regain control of his genetic information.
Test tube used to transfer DNA (Cyberguy “Knutsson)
Steps to protect yourself when looking or using DNA testing groups at home
If you are still considering using DNA, if your genetic information is already displayed or if you just want to take preventive steps, here are some things to do.
1) Investing in personal data removal services: Remove your personal information proactively from online data brokers and people’s search sites to reduce the risk of linking your unknown genetic data. It will not be limited to cleaning this health and genetic data and preventing them from circulating web, but it will make it more difficult for your unknown data (genetic or other). Although there is no service to remove all of your data from the Internet, get a great order removal service if you want to monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time. Check the best data removal choices here.
2) Choosing a good reputable companies: The well -known and reliable DNA test providers are determined, as they are likely to adhere to the standards of privacy and safety due to the general scrutiny.
3) Review privacy options during subscription: Pay attention closely to the privacy settings when registering your test set. Many companies allow you to subscribe or out of data sharing for search or marketing purposes.
4) Reducing data sharing: Carefully think if you will allow your data sharing with third parties. Although you can cancel the approval later, the already joint data may not be refundable or completely deleted.
5) Delete the data test after the test: If you have already tested, review the company’s privacy policy and delete your data if possible. Note that joint data with third parties may remain available.
6) Avoid downloading data to third party databases: Refrain from downloading your genetic information to external services, which may share data with the application of the law or other entities without clear approval.
7) Consider an unknown test: Use unknown methods when serving DNA samples, such as false names or alternative payment methods, to reduce tracking.
Kurt fast food
Your DNA holds some of the most important and sensitive information about you, and as soon as it gets there, lose control of how it is used. From potential privacy violations to emotional surprises and the challenges of deleting your genetic data, DNA testing groups come with risks that many do not recognize in advance. If you are considering diving in your genetic scheme, ask yourself: Are you comfortable with these data that are likely to end in the hands of marketers, law application, or even a company that you did not agree to share with it?
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