Is it possible to have a DNA test done without other people finding out?

Yes, it is.

DNA Tests and Privacy

We take several precautionary measures to ensure that our clients feel safe entrusting their DNA testing with our laboratory. Not even the fact that the client has ordered a DNA test is shared.In order to protect our clients` privacy, no information concerning the test is shared with anyone except the original requester of the test. Even if a test participant contacts our office, case information cannot be disclosed without the express consent of the original requester of the test. It is possible to have the DNA sample kit and test results sent to a designated post office with signature and ID required pick-up to ensure the client`s privacy.

It is possible to test non-standard samples such as a toothbrush, hair or fingernails

While the standard sample used for testing is a buccal (inner cheek) swab, it is also possible to test a variety of other non-standard sample types such as cigarette butts, semen, a razor, etc.（What Can be Used as a Sample?） You can click on the link to the left to learn more details, and if there is a sample type you do not see listed you can contact us to find out if it can be used. The accuracy of the test is not affected by the sample type used, so all successful tests will have a level of accuracy that is 35 times higher than the international standard.

Consent form following the Guidelines of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

For a legal DNA test, an unbiased third-party staff specialist oversees the sample collection and preparation of the paperwork, including the application and consent forms. For personal DNA tests, while a consent form is required to be submitted, the client is allowed to fill in the paperwork themselves. We only contact the original requester of the test, so for a personal DNA test the personal information of the tested individuals is not needed. Reportedly, there are many cases where an individual orders a DNA test, collects the samples without the tested parties knowing and forges their signatures on the paperwork. The results of a DNA test could lead to marital strife and possibly divorce, and it is said that up to half of personal DNA tests are done without the other involved parties knowledge. seeDNA cannot assume any responsibility for these acts, and ask our clients to please receive the consent of all the subjects in advance. Though it is not stipulated by law, we also ask that our clients prepare a consent form so as not to be in violation of the guidelines of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

Policy for protecting personal information “Guidelines for the economic and industrial sector on the law concerning personal information protection”