How to Avoid Genetic Testing Scams

Sequencing was founded on the mission to provide as much genetic information as possible to people online. The founder, Dr. Brandon Colby, M.D., geneticist and author of Outsmart Your Genes, cares deeply about people's health and wellness. With intelligent DNA analysis applications, Sequencing has been able to help people prevent major health conditions and diseases.

Unfortunately, with the growth of genomics, many DNA testing companies have arisen and not all of them are trustworthy. Genetic testing fraud is becoming more common, and it can be hard to identify legitimate providers from fraudulent ones.

In this article, we hope to uncover the world of genetic testing scams. Knowing what they are, how they function, and how to avoid them will help you get the best value for your money as you uncover the information your DNA holds.

What Are DNA Testing Scams?

Scams are when someone sells something fraudulent or misrepresents what they are selling. When it comes to DNA testing, scams can appear as:

• Identity theft through fake DNA testing companies
• Inaccurate genetic test results sold as medical-grade analysis
• Medicare and insurance fraud using your personal and genetic information
• Unsolicited offers that promise far more than legitimate science can deliver

Identity Theft

Some companies posing as genetic testing providers claim they can tell you just about anything with a DNA test. Many of these fraudsters say the entire cost of the test is free. All you have to do is provide a DNA sample and your personal information.

When you submit the DNA sample along with your personal information, you never receive any results. In a few months, you may discover your identity has been stolen and the scammers have been using it to open credit cards or commit crimes under your name.

Always be suspicious of free DNA tests. Legitimate DNA tests cost money. Tests offered at no cost will typically be for research purposes and will provide very limited information.

Inaccurate Genetic Test Results

Some marketers promise to deliver results that are scientifically impossible or wildly exaggerated. For instance, there is no DNA test that can accurately tell you exactly how long you will live, predict your exact income potential, or guarantee specific health outcomes with certainty. These claims are signs of fraud.

Legitimate DNA testing companies are transparent about what their tests can and cannot tell you. If a company is making extraordinary claims, treat that as a red flag.

Medicare and Insurance Fraud

One of the most serious genetic testing scams involves Medicare fraud. Fraudulent companies will contact Medicare beneficiaries and offer free genetic testing, claiming it is covered under Medicare. They collect personal information and Medicare details, bill Medicare for tests that were never properly conducted or were unnecessary, and pocket the money.

Never agree to genetic testing from an unsolicited contact, even if they claim it is free and covered by your insurance.

How to Avoid Genetic Testing Scams

Keep these guidelines in mind when shopping for DNA testing kits or DNA analysis:

• Do not provide personal information to anyone who contacts you unsolicited promising a DNA test. Only provide information to companies you have reached out to directly.
• Before moving forward with any DNA test, speak with your healthcare professional or genetic counselor about which tests you need or desire.
• Trust referrals and research the DNA company you are considering. Scammers often have hidden or negative reviews online.
• Check the U.S. government's scam information resource at usa.gov/scams-and-frauds for information about common scams and frauds.

You Can Trust Legitimate Genetic Testing

DNA testing has come a long way over the years and continues to provide real health and wellness value. Do not shy away from DNA testing because of scams. Like everything else, do your research. If you are looking for cancer screening, disease risk analysis, ancestry tracing, or pharmacogenomics insights, look for a DNA company with a strong reputation, accredited laboratory certification, and verified reviews.

Sequencing is a CLIA-certified, clinical-grade whole genome sequencing provider. Our whole genome sequencing reads 100% of your DNA across over 30,000 genes. Learn more about whole genome sequencing from Sequencing, or visit our Education Center for additional information about what you can learn from genetic testing.