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OpenSNP Closes Amid Fears of Genetic Data Misuse

3/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Bastian Greshake Tzovaras, the visionary behind OpenSNP, is closing the open-source genetic database, citing fears of misuse by law enforcement and the threat of authoritarianism. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety over data retention, acknowledging the innocence of his earlier hopes for genetic data's role in health.

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Story summary

Bastian Greshake Tzovaras, the visionary behind OpenSNP, is closing the open-source genetic database, citing fears of misuse by law enforcement and the threat of authoritarianism. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety over data retention, acknowledging the innocence of his earlier hopes for genetic data's role in health.