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And, the more people a dataset like the one built by 23andMe includes, the less someone’s choice not to be part of it matters.
Similarly, every time a user agrees to the collection, processing or sharing of personal information, it also affects others who share similarities with the user. These collective assessments make data processing profitable, such as through marketing, data sales and business decisions based on consumer behaviour.
INCREASED RISK OF DISCRIMINATION OR HARASSMENT
The interconnected nature of data isn’t a coincidence – it’s at the core of how businesses operate in the information economy. This also creates equity issues.
In the 23andMe case, hackers are offering the assembled genetic information for sale, with lists that include thousands of people. Hackers reportedly assembled and put up for sale lists of people with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry.
Individuals on the list now face increased risk of discrimination or harassment, as leaked data includes names and location. They could do the same for people with a propensity for type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease or dementia – all of which 23andMe measures – putting them at risk of other harms, from raised insurance premiums to employment discrimination.
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