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What you need to know before using online DNA testing kits

Genetic testing companies like Ancestry.com and 23andMe have amassed large amounts of very valuable genetic data.

Dr Katie Hasson, who works for the Center for Genetics and Society, raised concerns about how the genetic data collected by testing companies could be leveraged against consumers.

“I think a real concern these days is thinking about the potential for this genetic data to get included in the vast amounts of data that is being, you know, vacuumed up and collated to be sold”, said Dr Hasson. 

Dr Katie Hasson from the Centre for Genetics and Society explains the dangers of sending your DNA to genetic testing companies on Thursday’s episode of The Briefing:

Earlier this year, the Australian Government banned insurance providers from using genetic data to decide the level of coverage provided to customers. Dr Hasson  

“We need to think really carefully about the commercialisation of genetic testing and the collection of genetic data. If we are going to allow this, we need stronger regulations in place.” 

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There is also a risk of data breaches. Earlier this year 23andMe was the target of a data breach that saw just under seven million users’ data compromised. The data included names, addresses, and genetic heritage. 

Dr Hasson said that while companies make some money from the tests themselves, their business model has always been about collecting consumer data. 

According to Dr Hasson, the consumer-level tests also offer little value given the downsides and are “really different” from tests offered for medical reasons. 

By Zack Goutzoulas, a Master of Journalism student at the University of Melbourne.

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