Family history isn’t just data—it’s your story. Responsible use of AI is one way we honor that story. We use AI to keep your discoveries accurate, your information private and secure, and your experience grounded in human care and oversight.
AI is changing fast, and we’ll keep improving how we use it. We’ll learn from research, audits, and your feedback, and update our approach as technology evolves. You’ll always know where we stand because we’ll share changes openly.
Most importantly, we’re committed to using AI in ways that reflect our values, protect your data, and respect your family’s story.
Our responsible AI principles
Privacy and security
Your data deserves protection.
AI depends on data, and we treat yours with care. We use strict privacy controls and secure systems to prevent misuse or exposure. We also give you tools to manage your own data. We don’t use your account, DNA, or family tree data to train third-party AI models, and we don’t sell your personal data for the purpose of training those models.
Transparency
AI can sometimes feel invisible, and it's not always clear when it's being used or how it shapes results.
We know that trust is the foundation of every discovery you make, and we believe you should always know what's guiding your research. While we've used traditional machine learning behind the scenes for years—powering features like hints or helping to transcribe handwriting—we recognize that generative AI is different. We commit to helping you understand how generative AI is part of your experience.
Fairness and inclusion
AI can reflect bias if it isn’t built carefully. We design our tools to make family history fair and accessible for everyone—so people, records, and stories are represented across all cultures and languages. Learn more about how we approach sensitive historical discoveries.
Reliability and safety
AI can make mistakes, so we focus on keeping it safe and reliable. We test every AI feature before we release it and keep monitoring it afterward. Safeguards, expert reviews, and your feedback help us find and fix issues fast so you can trust your discoveries.
Accountability
AI can be powerful, so we handle it carefully.
We establish clear oversight mechanisms to ensure compliance with evolving industry standards. From design to delivery, we build in checks—like audits, logs, and reviews—to spot and fix issues quickly when they arise. If you have a concern, let us know.
Frequently asked questions
Is my personal data used to train AI?
Some data we collect may be used to improve Ancestry services, as outlined in our Privacy Statement. We don’t use your account, DNA, or family tree data to train third-party AI models, and we don’t sell your personal data for the purpose of training those models.
What happens if AI makes a mistake?
We test every AI feature before releasing it and keep monitoring it afterward. If something doesn’t seem right, report it. We’ll review the issue and make any corrections that are needed. Your feedback helps us improve.
Does Ancestry follow industry AI standards?
Yes. We follow recognized responsible-AI frameworks and keep our practices aligned with evolving industry standards.
What if I have a concern about AI at Ancestry?
If you have a concern, you can submit feedback, or contact us directly