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Submitted URL: https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzO...
Effective URL: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2023/06/keep-peoples-sensitive-dna-information-private?utm_source=govdelivery
Submission: On June 16 via api from US — Scanned from DE
Effective URL: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2023/06/keep-peoples-sensitive-dna-information-private?utm_source=govdelivery
Submission: On June 16 via api from US — Scanned from DE
Form analysis 3 forms found in the DOM
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</form>GET https://consumer.ftc.gov/search/site-cfg
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</form>Text Content
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Consumer Alert
KEEP PEOPLE’S SENSITIVE DNA INFORMATION PRIVATE
By
Jim Kreidler
Consumer Education Specialist, FTC
June 16, 2023
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You’ve probably heard about genetic testing services, where a company examines
your DNA, often from a saliva sample and sends you a report about your family
background or your likelihood for developing certain health conditions. It might
sound great, but can you trust a company when it promises to keep your sensitive
DNA data private?
Vitagene, a San Francisco-based DNA testing company, promised consumers that it
exceeded industry-standard security practices for maintaining the privacy of
people’s sensitive health and genetic information. But the FTC says the company
didn’t keep that promise. In fact, the FTC says Vitagene used a well-known cloud
service provider to store people’s confidential information but didn’t use
built-in cloud security measures. That made it possible for anyone with internet
access to see the detailed health reports of nearly 2,400 consumers and raw
genetic data of at least 227 others. To settle the case, the company will
implement a comprehensive security program verified by a third party approved by
the FTC.
If you’re considering using a DNA testing service, here are some things to
consider.
* Know that your DNA data is sensitive because it’s about who you are. In fact,
it’s so sensitive there’s a law to protect you from discrimination based on
genetic information when you’re trying to get work or health insurance. But
that law doesn’t apply if you’re trying to get disability or long-term care
insurance.
* Do some research. Read and understand the company’s “terms of use” before you
buy. Who will have access to your data? How will the company protect your
privacy and keep your genetic information safe?
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RECENT CONSUMER ALERTS
Keep people’s sensitive DNA information private
June 16, 2023
Imposters prey on families preparing for the funeral of a loved one
June 15, 2023
The INFORM Consumers Act and online marketplaces: What to know
June 14, 2023
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