Social Implications of DNA Acquisition & Storage: The Privacy Crisis in Genomics
Michael Goetzman investigates the privacy, security, and social implications of rapid Next-Gen DNA sequencing, consumer genealogy testing, and genomic databases.
Summary
The Revolution of Next-Generation DNA Sequencing
Rapid decreases in genomic sequencing costs have democratized DNA acquisition, leading millions of individuals to submit genetic samples to commercial testing companies.
Privacy Vulnerabilities in Genetic Databases
Michael Goetzman reveals that genetic data cannot be anonymized, as partial sequences uniquely identify individuals and their extended biological relatives.
Surveillance, Law Enforcement, and Commercial Exploitation
Goetzman explores real-world scenarios where consumer genetic repositories are queried by law enforcement, insurance underwriters, and data brokers.
Safeguarding Genetic Sovereignty and Bioethics
The author advocates for cryptographic encryption of genomic records, strict data ownership rights, and bioethical regulations.
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