Our DNA is at Risk of Hacking, Warn Scientists
A groundbreaking study has highlighted the alarming possibility that our DNA is vulnerable to hacking, sparking a wake-up call for scientists and policymakers alike. Led by Dr. Nasreen Anjum from the University of Portsmouth's School of Computing, this comprehensive review of cyber-biosecurity risks has shed light on the growing concerns surrounding next-generation DNA sequencing (NGS) technology.
NGS is a powerful tool that enables rapid and cost-effective DNA and RNA sequencing, supporting crucial advances in cancer research, drug development, agricultural innovation, and forensic science. However, as Dr. Anjum warned, this cutting-edge technology also poses significant risks if left unsecured.
The Vulnerabilities of NGS Workflow
The NGS workflow involves a series of complex, interdependent steps – from sample preparation and sequencing to data analysis and interpretation – each involving highly specialized instruments, technologies, software, and connected systems. While these steps are essential for generating accurate results, they also open up multiple points of vulnerability.
As many DNA datasets are openly accessible online, the study warns that cybercriminals could misuse this information for surveillance, manipulation, or malicious experimentation. The research team identified new and emerging methods that hackers and those with malicious intent could use to exploit or attack systems, such as synthetic DNA-encoded malware, AI-driven manipulation of genome data, and identity tracing through re-identification techniques.
The Consequences of Biosecurity Breaches
Dr. Anjum emphasized that genomic data is one of the most personal forms of data we have, and if compromised, the consequences go far beyond a typical data breach. The threats posed by biosecurity breaches pose risks to individual privacy, scientific integrity, and national security.
The Need for Interdisciplinary Cooperation
Dr. Anjum stressed that cyber-biosecurity remains one of the most neglected and poorly understood research disciplines, leaving a critical gap in global biosecurity. To make sure our DNA information stays safe and is used only for good, she urges more research and collaboration to find ways to keep this powerful technology secure.
She advocates for interdisciplinary cooperation between computer scientists, bioinformaticians, biotechnologists, and security professionals – groups that rarely work together but must align. "Without coordinated action, genomic data could be exploited for surveillance, discrimination, or even bioterrorism," she warned.
Prioritizing Biosecurity Research
Dr. Anjum calls on governments, regulatory bodies, funding agencies, and academic institutions to prioritize this field and invest in dedicated research, education, and policy development before it's too late. "Governments must take a proactive approach to protect our DNA information from falling into the wrong hands," she emphasized.
She also recommends practical solutions, including secure sequencing protocols, encrypted storage, and AI-powered anomaly detection, creating a foundation for much stronger cyber-biosecurity.
A Call to Action
The study was funded by the British Council's UK-Saudi Challenge Fund and a Quality Related Research Grant from the University of Portsmouth. The research team is urging policymakers and industry leaders to take immediate action to strengthen biosecurity measures and protect our DNA information.
"Our research lays the foundations for improving biosecurity by providing a single, clear list of all the possible threats in the entire next-generation sequencing process," Dr. Anjum said. "We must work together to ensure that this powerful technology is used responsibly and for the greater good."