This is what no one planned could happen after taking a DNA test

I was one of the first to spit into a test tube, giving up my DNA forever to learn more about my health and heredity. You know, the ones that promise to connect you with distant relatives you didn’t even know existed or reveal genetic risks for conditions like Alzheimer’s or heart disease. These DNA tests aren’t just about satisfying curiosity; people buy them to uncover important health information, connect with loved ones or give thoughtful gifts.

But here’s the thing – and I’m speaking from a data privacy perspective here – genetic information is highly valuable and a risk to unlocking deeply intimate information unique to only you. And while these commercial DNA tests seem harmless, they come with risks that most people don’t immediately think about. Once you hand over your DNA, you’re giving these companies access to your most personal data. And believe me, what happens to that data after the test can be anything but straightforward.

Your DNA is more than just a string of letters; it’s a unique and permanent blueprint of your identity. Using a commercial DNA testing service can mean handing over not only physical samples but also information about potential medical conditions and predispositions, ethnicity and familial connections and even behavioral or lifestyle markers. This can put you at risk of things like genetic testing without your consent, increased insurance premiums, health-related scams and family secrets coming to light, sometimes with painful consequences.

One woman even felt that she “lost her entire family” after taking one of these tests. And here’s the kicker: Even if you choose to stay out of the genetic testing game, if anyone who shares some of your DNA, like your brother or your niece, chooses to take one, it can still expose you to many of these risks without you even knowing.

Aside from doing what the services advertise, it turns out that many DNA testing services may be sharing your genetic data with researchers, marketers, insurance companies and even law enforcement agencies. Nearly half of commercial DNA testing services use your genetic data for research, marketing and even share it with law enforcement agencies, potentially without any kind of subpoena or court order.

Even if you do buy one of these DNA testing kits, the results may not always be reliable. According to experts, at-home genetic tests aren’t as accurate as medical DNA tests ordered by your doctor. This can lead to unnecessary anxiety or false reassurance regarding your health. Results usually rely on statistical comparisons to reference populations, which don’t necessarily yield accurate results, especially if you’re from a less-studied ethnic group.

Once you’ve submitted your DNA to a testing company, the processes for having your sample and associated data destroyed are often complex. Consumers are left worried about what will happen to their genetic data if a testing company is sold or acquired, especially when they have no easy way to retrieve or destroy that data.

If you’re still considering using a DNA service, if your genetic information has already been exposed or if you just want to take preventative steps, here are some things to do:

1) Invest in personal data removal services.
2) Choose reputable companies.
3) Review privacy options during sign-up.
4) Limit data sharing.
5) Delete data post-test.
6) Avoid uploading data to third-party databases.
7) Consider anonymous testing.

Your DNA holds some of the most personal and sensitive information about you, and once it’s out there, you lose control over how it’s used. From potential privacy violations to emotional surprises and the challenges of deleting your genetic data, DNA testing kits come with risks that many don’t recognize upfront. If you’re considering diving into your genetic blueprint, ask yourself: Are you comfortable with this data potentially ending up in the hands of marketers, law enforcement or even a company you didn’t agree to share it with?

Have you ever used a DNA testing service, or do the risks give you pause? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.