Privacy and DNA testing

Privacy and DNA testing: Increasing numbers of people around the world are uploading their DNA data to public ancestry websites. More than 1 million Americans have already published their genetic information, and hundreds more do so every week. But, as DNA testing continues to grow in popularity, a key concern is often ignored: privacy.

A new study argues that more than half of all Americans could be identified by name simply by analyzing a sample of their DNA, and knowing their age and where they live. The researchers say that once 3 million Americans have uploaded their genomes to public genealogy websites nearly everyone in the USA would be identifiable.

With increasing calls to scrutinize the meaning of privacy in the DNA age, AlphaBiolabs wants to reassure its clients that its DNA testing is 100% confidential and that data security is paramount.

We password protect all data

We only discuss any details of our DNA testing with those who are entitled to know (on receipt of correct passwords or answers to unique security questions). All of our reports are sent as a pdf file that require a password to open them. This password is picked by our client who instructs the test, which protects the report from being opened by anyone who doesn’t know the password.

We keep correspondence confidential

We understand that DNA relationship testing can be an emotional time. Not all of our clients want their close family to know that they are undertaking such tests. For this reason, we go to great lengths to minimize any chance of the company name being recognized in any correspondence. For example, online payment transactions do not name AlphaBiolabs as the recipient on bank statements.

In addition, all of our testing kits are sent out in discreet plain packaging with no company logos or branding.

We don’t sell on your data

We limit access to your personal data to those employees, agents, contractors and other third parties who have a business need to know. They will only process your personal data on our instructions and they are subject to a duty of confidentiality.

We will keep your results and personal information secure

We work hard to prevent your personal data from being disclosed or accessed in an unauthorized way by using a secure server that protects any financial transactions on our website. We also take appropriate physical, electronic and managerial measures to ensure that any data disclosed to us are kept secure.

We adhere to the General Data Protection Regulation

This means that DNA samples are destroyed after 3 months and all identification documents – hard copy and electronic files – are destroyed after 12-18 months. Further details on all of AlphaBiolabs DNA testing services can be found on our website and our Frequently Asked Questions page. If you require further information, contact us via Live Chat or call now at 727-325-2902.