Artificial Intelligence and the Weaponization of Genetic Data

Advancements in genetics have the ability to rapidly improve medicine, with a number of factors converging to push the integration of genomics into mainstream healthcare. As technologies that use genetic data begin to expand, so does exposure to risks. The cost and harms from the misuse of genetic data can be latent. The immutability, uniqueness, and information-rich nature of DNA renders it a high-value target. Knowledge and control asymmetries exist between individuals, industry, and governments. Genetic data's value as an asset is mirrored in the potential degree of harm if abused. This article highlights the critical threats and vulnerabilities associated with genetic data risk, from identification and profiling, to exposure of health and medical conditions and susceptibility, as well as to the broader social welfare risk associated with biowarfare. All of these threats are rapidly actualizing from the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). Here we outline the ways in which data science is improving genetics and how that can ultimately lead to its weaponization.