The crowdsourced DNA project announces it will shut down to protect users from increasing authoritarianism

OpenSNP to close due to data misuse fears amid global authoritarianism rise.

: OpenSNP, an open-source genetic data repository operating for 14 years, will close on April 30, citing concerns over data misuse by authoritarian governments. Founder Bastian Greshake Tzovaras cited the global rise of far-right regimes impairing scientific discourse and exploiting digital commons. OpenSNP allowed users to share DNA results to support scientific research, but fears of misuse by undemocratic law enforcement accelerated its closure. Concurrently, corporate DNA leader 23andMe seeks a buyer, amplifying privacy worries amid industry instability.

OpenSNP, a crowdsourced genetic information platform, announced its closure after 14 years due to heightened concerns over authoritarian regimes exploiting genetic data for malicious purposes. Founder Bastian Greshake Tzovaras expressed on his personal blog that the rise of far-right governments globally was leading to a crackdown on scientific reasoning and free society principles, prompting the decision to delete all data by April 30. OpenSNP allowed users to voluntarily share their DNA results from consumer tests, which could be utilized for familial matches, genetic studies, and educational purposes.

The project's founder noted the deteriorating political climate was reshaping the risk-benefit analysis of open access to genetic data. The U.S. has witnessed a surge in pseudoscience replacing established medical and climate science due to government influence, mirroring trends in other nations. Tzovaras emphasized that allowing unfettered access to potentially sensitive genetic information in 2025 posed distinct, escalating dangers compared to 14 years ago, necessitating this drastic action.

Beyond the politicized misuse of genetic data, concerns were raised around large corporations benefiting from digital commons like open software repositories and Wikipedia. This strain on open culture infrastructure underscored the broader implications of data privacy amid corporatism and state interference. In parallel, the commercial DNA testing giant 23andMe, known for its vast consumer genetic database, is actively searching for a buyer, further spotlighting privacy issues in the industry.

The closure of OpenSNP serves as a catalyzing reflection on the responsibility associated with maintaining genetic databases in politically turbulent times. It reflects broader global trends where trust in data security and scientific integrity is compromised by governments prioritizing control over freedom. As digital privacy becomes increasingly intertwined with geopolitical realities, entities involved must reevaluate their operational ethics and commitments to user protections.

Tzovaras stated his decision came after much contemplation, especially following the U.S. election and ongoing events at 23andMe. The announcement has prompted discussions about privacy risks associated with the DNA industry's future, as the project ceases operations. OpenSNP's conclusion highlights pressing ethical considerations and the urgent necessity for policies safeguarding open science initiatives from authoritarian exploitation.

Sources: Lucas Ropek, 404 Media

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