What is the issue with Family Finder uploads to GEDmatch?

Question

As of March 16, 2016 GEDmatch is not accepting Family Finder uploads.  Here is a statement from the Forum at Family Tree DNA:

"We have reached out to GEDMatch expressing our concern that their website could potentially lead to a breach in privacy of our customers. Given this, we proposed to discuss the subject with them, but in parallel we suggested that until further clarification and assurances that the privacy of our customers' records are protected, Family Tree DNA uploads should be suspended. We hope that with the cooperation of GEDMatch we can reestablish the uploads in the near future."

We live in interesting times.

Comments

Isn't it just FTDNA that has a new management.... ==> they have to do something to prove they are needed ;-)

So far I have never been impressed by FTDNA feels the web interface is not developing and isn't to much help when doing genealogy....

Sad if GedMatch cant be used.... but who is surprised..... soon all our DNA tests are sold to Google and and and.... ;-)

Answer 1

Well.... I'd say that may encourage more people to upload to DNAGedcom until/unless they resolve this.

Answer 2

The "privacy issue" seems to be something involved with linking FTDNA's kit numbers with the names, email addresses and raw data within the GEDMatch database.

Odd thing is that just about a year ago this same issue came up regarding the semgarl.me database, only then FTDNA came out in support of semgarl. {shrug}

Fog of battle and deliberate misdirection going on in my opinion. Hopefully, whatever the truth is, they'll get it settled without GEDMatch being "forced" to permanently remove all FTDNA members' information from their database.

Comments

The situation seems to have calmed, both sides have released a joint communique stating they are working together towards a resolution.

Answer 3

Once again a calm voice calling for calm voices...

The Family Tree DNA and GEDmatch Dustup

Thanks Roberta Estes!

Mags