Privacy
DNA Layer and AncestryDNA: your data, handled two ways
DNA Layer never stores your raw DNA file. Here's how that compares to AncestryDNA's own transparency reporting and data policies, and what it means for your existing AncestryDNA raw data file.
Last verified 18 August 2026How DNA Layer handles your data
Your raw DNA file is read locally in your browser. DNA Layer does not store your original raw DNA file — only the derived findings needed to show your health layer are kept, DNA Layer never sells genetic data, and you can delete everything from your account at any time.
AncestryDNA’s own transparency reporting and data policies
AncestryDNA publishes a transparency report; its most recent reporting period (H2 2024) showed zero DNA data disclosures to law enforcement. AncestryDNA states it does not share genetic data with insurance companies or employers. Users own their DNA data and can delete it at any time — deleting an account with AncestryDNA results also destroys the associated saliva sample.
AncestryDNA also lets users withdraw consent to participate in research at any time from account settings; as with most research-consent models, information already used in a completed or in-progress study, or in published results, cannot be withdrawn retroactively.
If you already have an AncestryDNA file
None of the above changes what you can already do with an AncestryDNA raw data file you have already downloaded. DNA Layer reads that same file — the one from your existing AncestryDNA account — to build your personalised health layer. You do not need a new test.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to take a new DNA test?
No. DNA Layer is built for the raw data file from a test you have already taken. If you have never tested, any of the supported consumer providers will do.
What happens to my genetic data?
Your file is read locally in your browser. We keep the minimum needed to show your layer, we never sell genetic data, and you can delete everything from your vault whenever you want.