Technology as a whole has evolved at an outstanding pace over the past decade. With AI gaining strength, there’s no doubt that many people are worrying about their safety and privacy.
Of course, digital advancements have helped us to create many opportunities for people. When you join 777Bet, for example, you can access many casino games and tools from the comfort of your smartphone, tablet, or PC. This wasn’t possible with traditional technology.
You may have heard about DNA technology if you’re up-to-date with the news. It’s used in many fields, including pharmacology, disease prevention, and even forensics/bioinformatics.
Unfortunately, DNA technology isn’t as pretty as some make it to be. Today, you’ll learn more about it and why it’s risky for people worldwide.
What Is DNA Technology?
At its core, DNA technology involves the study and manipulation of DNA, which is the genetic material of a cell.
As mentioned, this technology has many uses, particularly in forensics, pharmacology, and bioinformatics. Bioinformatics is especially important because it involves collecting and analyzing your biological data for different purposes.
There are tools and software actively being used to process and interpret biological data. While this is great for many purposes, not everyone may be excited about it.
One of the best things about DNA technology is its contribution to the pharmacology sector. Many new drugs related to recombinant DNA technology have been improved thanks to advancements.
However, DNA technology isn’t always used for “big” purposes like improving our health. Sometimes, it’s merely used for different services.
Have you seen those “DNA tests” online? They claim that they can tell you about your ancestors, family tree, and even distant relatives. While they sound great, there are a few concerns around them.
Discover the Biggest Risks Surrounding DNA Technology
We will not deny that DNA technology is being used for good most of the time, but what about when you trust your genetic information to smaller companies?
Remember, your genetic data is unique, so trusting a company with it is a bigger deal than it seems. The first step to making the right call is to educate yourself on the potential consequences that come from trusting companies with your data.
Genetic Privacy
Let’s say you’re using a “DNA testing kit” from a company to learn more about your physical traits. It sounds fun, right?
However, there’s a concern with what happens when you get your results. Remember, the company still has your genetic data, and you might not know what it’ll do with it later.
Most companies will claim that they don’t share your data with third parties unless you consent. If you decide to consent, your data will go into research projects from other organizations.
It sounds great that your DNA is being used for the greater good, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case. When you decide to share your genetic data with the world, you don’t know if an organization will take it to develop a new drug and sell it.
In other words, some people would be profiting from your genetic data, and you probably would never hear about it.
Technically, you could cancel the service and make the company stop sharing your genetic data, right? Yes, but you can’t verify whether the company actually deleted your genetic profile or if it got rid of the samples you sent.
There aren’t many laws protecting genetic privacy besides GINA, so you’re exposed to a few risks when sharing your information.
Privacy Statements
The first thing you should do is check for a company’s privacy statements before sharing your DNA with it. These statements give you an idea of what the people there will do with your data.
Unfortunately, privacy statements can change for different reasons. Maybe the company got bought or went bankrupt. Even though these companies are required to note any changes in their privacy policy, you don’t know if they will.
Hacking
When you share your DNA data with any organization/company, it creates a genetic profile. These companies can then use that profile for different purposes.
Every team should promote the safety of their systems, but as technology has evolved, cybercrime has, too. All industries are at risk of being hacked at any moment, so what happens if the company you trusted your information with has a vulnerability that others exploit?
Losing your DNA information because of hacking has several implications, and all of them are dangerous.
Physical Problems
Some DNA testing procedures require injections. You must be extremely careful with what you’re using to “extract” your genetic information.
DNA testing companies, for example, may give you the option to get an injection or a saliva test, which is safer. Still, you must be careful with the equipment the company sends before using it.
Although it’s not common, DNA testing can lead to allergic reactions, which might cause internal damage.
DNA genetic testing has become a huge industry over the past few years, and many are eager to share their information to learn more about themselves or their past.
While everything sounds exciting, it’s crucial to be careful and not fall for scams or dangerous procedures.
How to Prevent These Issues from Happening
If you’re reading this, you already took a big step toward protecting yourself. Understanding the potential risks of DNA technology will already protect you against most problems.
We’re not saying you can’t take DNA tests online anymore, but you should be more careful when picking who you trust your genetic information with.
Make sure you check every company’s privacy policy, regulations, and certifications. Some companies may have been investigated by the Federal Trade Commission, for example. In these cases, you should be even more careful or avoid using their services altogether.
Bottom Line
It’s never a bad idea to stay safe. Whether you’re taking a DNA test online or going to get a blood test somewhere, it’s great that you’re aware of the potential risks that DNA technology has.
Keep these potential risks in mind, and you’ll have a much safer life.