Nancy Guthrie has now been missing for several weeks from Tucson, Arizona. As genealogists, there may be a meaningful way we can help.
In this video, I walk you step-by-step through how to download your raw DNA data from AncestryDNA and upload it to GEDmatch and Family Tree DNA. Both of these platforms allow users to opt in to Investigative Genetic Genealogy matching, which gives law enforcement the ability to use participating kits to build family trees that may help identify unknown DNA in missing persons or criminal investigations.
I demonstrate:
• How to download your DNA file from Ancestry
• How to upload that file to GEDmatch
• How to upload that file to Family Tree DNA
• Where to confirm your opt-in settings for investigative matching
This process can also be done with DNA tests from MyHeritage, 23andMe, and other consumer testing companies that allow raw data downloads.
Beyond helping in cases like Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, uploading your DNA to additional databases can benefit you as a genealogist by expanding your match list. You may connect with DNA cousins who tested at a different company than you did.
Important:
This video is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always review the current terms and privacy policies of any DNA platform before downloading or transferring your DNA data. Once you download your raw DNA file, you are responsible for how it is stored and shared.
If you choose to participate in Investigative Genetic Genealogy, be sure your kit is properly opted in on the platform you upload to.
There is a free handout linked below with step-by-step written instructions.
My heart breaks for the Guthrie family. If there is something constructive we can do as a genealogical community, this may be one way to help.
Free Handout: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IJQ3hgvNOyg3NjQPc3po5Q3YC8SrG_Zz/view?usp=sharing
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