We’ve always talked about the importance of choosing a DNA testing company that values your privacy, but with the recent 60 Minutes episode on how these genetic testing companies are selling your DNA for profit, we’ve had even more potential customers reaching out to ask us questions.
This is just one of the recent messages our support team received:
Our answer? We take privacy really seriously and we never, ever sell data or share it with anyone other than you. Our lab sends us the data from your test and soon after destroys the sample and the data.
However, not all DNA testing companies can say the same.
As we learned in the 60 Minutes episode, “just this past week, 23andMe was reported to be in talks to go public, with a valuation of $4 billion. It’s a common refrain in the world of biotech: data is the new oil — and it’s all types of health data that might come from your smart-watch, your social media, your credit card. “
And, just check out what’s slipped into the fine print of an Ancestry consent form: “You grant royalty-free worldwide sub-licensable transferable license to host, transfer, process, analyze, distribute and communicate your genetic information.”
In plain English? They can do whatever they want with your DNA data.
It’s not just the DNA companies you have to worry about. You might be surprised to learn that foreign firms, particularly the Chinese government, are investing tons of money in U.S. companies that collect our biodata.
U.S. intelligence official Bill Evanina estimates that there are approximately 23 Chinese-based or affiliated companies operating inside the U.S. in consultation, collaboration, partnership or by investing in U.S.-based companies.
Something you have to be really careful about is getting your genetics sequenced with a company that doesn’t tell you where the sequencing is taking place or where the company is located.
Many companies that offer genetic services are owned by Chinese/Hong Kong based companies. Even if they are based in the US, many still send your data to China or Hong Kong.
It’s important to note that the Chinese government has access to whatever data they want from any company based in China or any company that sequences genomes for US companies.
All of the sequencing done for SelfDecode is done by extremely reputable US and European labs.
What can you do to protect your genetic data?
Some people would say to just avoid having your DNA tested at all.
However, your DNA contains valuable information about your health and often contains the key to fixing underlying health issues.
On top of that, you have the right to know what’s in your own DNA without sacrificing your privacy.
That’s why the best thing you can do is have your DNA tested with a company that values privacy and is committed to protecting your data.
At SelfDecode YOU own your genetic data.
We will never sell or give away your data because that’s not the business we’re in. We’re in the business of helping people use their DNA to take control of their health and find solutions that actually work for them.
So, if you’re ready to optimize your health while also protecting your genetic information, start your SelfDecode journey today.
