Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

DNA Detectives · dnadetectives.co.uk · Last updated: March 2026

ICO Registration: DNA Detectives is registered with the Information Commissioner's Office as a data controller.

Registration number: C1895205

1. Who we are

DNA Detectives is a genealogical research service based in Northern Ireland, operated by Diane Reardon. We help individuals identify unknown biological relatives using DNA evidence and genealogical research. Our website is dnadetectives.co.uk.

For any questions about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your data, contact us at dnadetectivesuk@gmail.com.

2. What data we collect

We may collect and process the following personal information:

Your name and contact details (email address, phone number)

Information you share about your search, family background, and personal circumstances

DNA data, including raw DNA files, match lists, and results from third-party platforms such as AncestryDNA, 23andMe, MyHeritage, FamilyTreeDNA, and GEDmatch

Information about biological relatives identified during research

Correspondence between us by email, phone, or video call

Booking information submitted through our Calendly booking system

DNA data is classified as special category data under UK GDPR and is given the highest level of protection.

3. Why we collect your data

We collect and use your personal data for the following purposes:

To carry out the genealogical and DNA research service you have requested

To communicate with you about your case

To provide you with our findings and recommendations

To comply with our legal obligations

The legal basis for processing your data is your explicit consent, which you provide by signing our client consent form before any research begins. You may withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us.

4. How we store and protect your data

Your personal data and DNA information are stored securely using password-protected systems. We use Google Workspace, which is encrypted and protected by two-factor authentication. We do not store sensitive data in unprotected documents or share it via unsecured channels.

We take the security of special category data extremely seriously. Access to your data is limited to Diane [Surname] only, and is never shared with third parties without your explicit consent.

5. How long we keep your data

We retain your personal data and DNA information for a maximum of 12 months after your case is closed, unless you ask us to retain it for longer or to delete it sooner. After this period all data relating to your case is securely deleted.

You may request deletion of your data at any time by contacting us at dnadetectivesuk@gmail.com

6. Sharing your data

We will never sell, rent, or share your personal data with third parties for marketing purposes. Your data may only be shared in the following limited circumstances:

With your explicit consent — for example, if research requires cross-referencing with another researcher

If we are legally required to do so by a court order or regulatory authority

Third-party platforms such as AncestryDNA, 23andMe, and GEDmatch have their own privacy policies which govern how they handle your DNA data. We recommend you review these independently.

7. Your rights

Under UK GDPR you have the following rights regarding your personal data:

Right of access — you may request a copy of all data we hold about you

Right to rectification — you may ask us to correct inaccurate data

Right to erasure — you may ask us to delete your data at any time

Right to restrict processing — you may ask us to pause processing your data

Right to withdraw consent — you may withdraw your consent at any time without affecting the lawfulness of processing carried out before withdrawal

Right to complain — you have the right to lodge a complaint with the ICO at ico.org.uk or by calling 0303 123 1113

To exercise any of these rights, contact us at dnadetectivesuk@gmail.com We will respond within 30 days.

8. Cookies

Our website uses only essential cookies that are necessary for the site to function correctly. These cookies do not track you, collect personal data, or store any information about your browsing habits. No consent is required for essential cookies under UK GDPR. For any questions about cookies on this site please contact us at dnadetectivesuk@gmail.com. 

9. Changes to this policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated date. We recommend checking this page periodically.

10. Contact us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your data rights, please contact:

Diane Reardon · DNA Detectives · dnadetectivesuk@gmail.com · dnadetectives.co.uk

ICO Registration Number: C1895205