by: Chelsie WyattPosted on:

How to Protect Your Genetic Data from Hackers

How to Protect Your Genetic Data from Hackers

Consumer DNA testing kits like those from 23andMe, Ancestry.com and MyHeritage promise a road map to your genealogy, ethnicity and family history and, in some cases, information about your genetic health. Genetic data offers profound insights into our ancestry, health risks, and predispositions. However, it is also one of the most sensitive forms of personal information and a prime target for hackers. With cyberattacks on the rise and data privacy concerns mounting, protecting your genetic data is essential. They also ask for a lot of trust with your DNA information — trust that, in some ways, may not be earned. This article explores strategies to safeguard your genetic information and minimize risks.

Past Breaches 

Direct-to-consumer DNA testing kits have experienced several notable breaches in recent years, exposing sensitive genetic and personal data. 

23andMe (2023): Hackers accessed data for nearly 6.9 million users by exploiting old, reused passwords. This breach included personal ancestry and genetic information, highlighting vulnerabilities in account security practices.

MyHeritage (2018): A breach exposed email addresses and hashed passwords of 92 million users. Although genetic data was stored on separate systems, this incident raised concerns about data compartmentalization and security measures.

DNA Diagnostics Center (2021): Unauthorized access compromised data from over 2 million individuals, including sensitive genetic testing information stored from a legacy database..

GEDmatch (2020): This third-party genealogy platform was targeted in a breach that allowed hackers to access the profiles of individuals who hadn’t opted in to law enforcement use. This incident raised ethical concerns about consent and privacy in genetic databases..

How can you protect your data from hackers?

1. Choose Trustworthy Genetic Testing Companies

Not all genetic testing companies have the same level of security and privacy protection. Before submitting your DNA for analysis, research the company thoroughly.

  • Research the company’s policies: Look for companies with transparent privacy policies that clearly outline how your data will be used, stored, and shared.
  • Ensure robust encryption: Verify that the company encrypts your genetic data both during transmission and storage to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Understand data-sharing practices: Some companies share data with third-party researchers or marketers. Opt for companies that allow you to opt out of such sharing.

2. Use Strong and Unique Passwords

A secure account begins with a strong password. Weak credentials are often the first point of entry for hackers.

  • Create complex passwords: Use a mix of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid easily guessable information like birthdays or names.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of protection by requiring a second verification step, such as a code sent to your phone.
  • Avoid password reuse: Each online account, including genetic testing platforms, should have its own unique password.

3. Review and Limit Data Sharing

When signing up for genetic testing, pay close attention to what you’re consenting to.

  • Understand consent agreements: Read the fine print to determine whether your data will be shared with researchers or sold to third parties.
  • Opt out of unnecessary sharing: Many companies allow users to decline participation in research programs or data-sharing agreements.
  • Request data deletion: If you’re no longer using the service, some companies allow you to delete your genetic data permanently.

4. Be Wary of Public DNA Databases

While uploading your DNA to public databases can help trace ancestry or connect with relatives, it also comes with significant risks.

  • Avoid uploading raw DNA files: Sharing your genetic data on public platforms increases the chances of exposure to hackers.
  • Understand the risks: Law enforcement or other parties may access public databases without your consent, raising both privacy and ethical concerns.

5. Protect Your Devices and Networks

Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in devices and networks to gain access to sensitive data.

  • Update your software: Regularly update your devices to patch security vulnerabilities.
  • Use secure networks: Avoid accessing your genetic data on public Wi-Fi. If necessary, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.
  • Install antivirus software: Protect your devices from malware that could steal your personal information.

6. Monitor for Data Breaches

Data breaches can occur even with reputable companies. Stay vigilant to minimize potential damage.

  • Set up alerts: Use services like “Have I Been Pwned” to monitor whether your accounts have been compromised.
  • Stay informed: Keep track of news related to breaches affecting genetic testing companies.

7. Advocate for Better Regulations

Stronger legal protections are critical to safeguarding genetic data.

  • Support privacy legislation: Advocate for laws that restrict the misuse of genetic information and require companies to adopt strict security measures.
  • Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with laws such as the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) in the U.S., which prohibits genetic discrimination in health insurance and employment.

8. Think Before Sharing

Your genetic data doesn’t just belong to you—it contains information about your family as well.

  • Discuss with relatives: Before sharing your genetic data, consider how it might impact your family’s privacy.
  • Limit online sharing: Avoid posting genetic information or test results on social media or public forums, where they can be exploited.

9. Use Encryption and Secure Backups

If you store your genetic data locally, take steps to protect it.

  • Encrypt files: Use encryption tools to secure any genetic data stored on your devices.
  • Backup securely: Keep backups in encrypted external drives rather than on cloud services with uncertain security policies.

Conclusion 

Your genetic data is a valuable and deeply personal asset that deserves the highest level of protection. By choosing reputable companies, securing your accounts, and being cautious with sharing, you can significantly reduce the risk of your genetic information falling into the wrong hands. With the right precautions, you can explore the benefits of genetic testing while safeguarding your privacy.

Monitoring Remote Sessions

Security monitoring is crucial for preventing ransomware attacks as it enables early detection, identification of vulnerabilities, monitoring for anomalies, data protection, and compliance with regulatory requirements. 

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