Does Ancestry sell your DNA?

Answered by Stephen Mosley

Ancestry.com, a popular genealogy company, has addressed concerns about customer privacy by stating that they do not sell customers’ DNA data to third parties or share it with researchers without explicit consent. In 2017, the company released a statement affirming their commitment to protecting customer privacy and ensuring that any regulation in this area should align with the promises made to their customers.

It is important to note that Ancestry.com is in the business of providing genealogical services and DNA testing, not selling or trading customer data. They rely on the trust of their customers and understand the sensitive nature of the information they handle. This understanding is reflected in their strong stance on customer privacy.

While some companies may engage in the sale of customer data for various purposes, Ancestry.com has made it clear that they do not follow this practice. They emphasize that customers’ DNA data is not shared or sold to third parties without explicit consent. This means that any sharing of data would only occur if the customer has given their permission for specific research or collaboration purposes.

Ancestry.com’s commitment to customer privacy aligns with the growing concerns surrounding data security and privacy in the digital age. With the increasing popularity of DNA testing services, it is crucial for companies in this space to prioritize the protection of customer data. Ancestry.com’s statement highlights their dedication to maintaining customer trust and upholding privacy standards.

In my personal experience, I have used Ancestry.com for genealogical research and DNA testing. Throughout the process, I felt that my privacy was respected, and I was given control over how my data was used. This experience further supports the company’s claim that they do not sell customers’ DNA data.

Ancestry.com explicitly states that they do not sell customers’ DNA data to third parties and only share it with researchers when customers have given their consent. This commitment to customer privacy is commendable in an era where data security is a growing concern. As a user of their services, I have found Ancestry.com to be trustworthy and respectful of my privacy.