What Your Family Tree Can Reveal (And Why You Should Be Cautious)

The Allure of Ancestry

Genealogy used to be the domain of historians and hobbyists poring over dusty records in local archives. Now, with just a few clicks and possibly a DNA swab, nearly anyone can trace their lineage across continents and centuries. The appeal is deeply human: to understand where we come from and how our family fits into the broader story of the world.

Modern genealogy tools have made it easier than ever to chase that story. Sites like Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, MyHeritage, and others offer vast databases of historical records—census data, birth and death certificates, immigration papers, even old newspapers. These services allow you to build intricate family trees, connect with distant cousins, and, in some cases, stumble upon connections to historical figures or unexpected regions of origin.

DNA Testing: A New Frontier

What really turbocharges the experience is the ability to integrate DNA testing. A simple mouth swab can unlock surprising insights into your ethnic heritage and connect you with relatives you never knew existed. It's not uncommon to hear stories of people discovering half-siblings, long-lost cousins, or entire branches of family previously unknown.

DNA tests can map your ancestry across different regions, offering percentage breakdowns that reveal the mix of cultures in your background. Some services, like MyHeritage, even enhance this by combining DNA with photo tools that bring old family images to life.

But the convenience and excitement come with trade-offs—especially around privacy.

The Hidden Costs of “Free”

Several genealogy platforms are free to use, such as FamilySearch.org, which is backed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These platforms offer broad access to global records and often include collaboration tools so users can share and merge family trees.

However, with free services, it’s worth asking: what’s being done with your data? If you’re not paying with money, there’s a good chance you’re paying with information. Some of these platforms monetize by selling data insights or advertising placements. It’s the age-old digital dilemma—when the product is free, you are often the product.

Data, DNA, and Digital Risks

Among the most sensitive data you can offer a company is your DNA. And while genealogy platforms promise valuable insights, they don't all offer the same level of data security. Not all breaches are hypothetical. One of the major DNA testing companies, 23andMe, recently suffered a data breach affecting millions of users. The exposed data included personal and genetic information—something far more difficult to change than a password.

Before you commit your DNA to any service, take time to review its privacy policy. Find out:

• Do they sell or share your genetic data?

• Who stores it—and where?

• What protections are in place against hacking?

• Have they ever been involved in a data scandal?

Even if a company says it doesn’t “sell” your information, they may still “share” it with partners or use it for research purposes. Be wary of vague language.

What to Watch for Going Forward

As DNA testing becomes more widespread, conversations are emerging about its use beyond genealogy. Some health insurers, for instance, have explored the idea of using DNA to assess health risks—potentially to deny coverage or adjust premiums.

That possibility, while still speculative, underscores how valuable and vulnerable this kind of data can be. Giving a company access to your genetic makeup should never be a casual decision.

Key Takeaways

• Genealogy tools can reveal meaningful stories about your heritage and family connections.

• DNA testing adds powerful insights but also introduces serious privacy considerations.

• Free services often come with hidden costs—usually involving your data.

• Always read a company's privacy policy, and research their track record on data protection.

• Think twice before handing over your genetic blueprint to a service you haven’t vetted.

Nathan Scataglini

Owner of Bright Concierge