Publishing DNA Results Responsibly
Sharing results is how a DNA study helps the wider family history community, but DNA is personal data that also says something about a tester’s relatives. Publishing well means being clear and careful at the same time.
Present results clearly
- Group testers whose results match into families or clusters and give each group a short label.
- Show each group’s oldest documented ancestor and place.
- Explain what the grouping means and how confident you are.
- Keep a short changelog so readers can see what has been revised.
Protect participants
- Use kit numbers or initials rather than names unless participants have agreed otherwise.
- Never publish contact details, dates of birth or information about living people.
- Ask before sharing any result that could reveal an unexpected parentage.
- Let participants withdraw and remove their data on request.
Think about databases
Some services let users upload results so that they can be compared across companies. Before uploading project data anywhere, check that participants have agreed and that they understand the terms of the service, including who can search the data.
Follow published standards
The genetic genealogy standards collected by ISOGG cover consent, privacy and the responsible use of DNA in family history, and are a good checklist for any project administrator.
See also how to organise a DNA study.