In the past few weeks, you have likely received emails requesting that you reset your password(s) at FamilyTreeDNA. We understand this is frustrating. To ensure your account remains secure, we are implementing new password guidelines. As part of this, we are requiring all users to update their passwords beginning April 2, 2025. This simple step significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, demonstrating our commitment to protecting your privacy and sensitive information.
We understand this might be an inconvenience, especially if you manage multiple kits, but it is a vital measure in our ongoing efforts to safeguard your data. If you do not update your password by April 30th, your account will be locked. This does not mean your data is lost or that you will no longer have access to your kit. It simply means you will need to request a password reset email to be sent to you. You can learn how to do so here.
Why resetting your password is important
Weak passwords create a security risk for everyone because a compromised account can allow unauthorized access to more than just that single account. Hackers who gain entry through a weak password might be able to see or take information belonging to others connected to that account, such as the names and email addresses in a FamilyTreeDNA match list.
Even if your current password meets our new requirements, people often use the same passwords on multiple websites. If one of those websites has a security problem, hackers can get that password and try it on other accounts, including yours. This means that even if your FamilyTreeDNA account wasn't directly attacked, a weak password makes it easier for hackers to get in using information from somewhere else. When many accounts are weak, the entire system becomes less secure
Security Requirements
Computer hackers use sophisticated algorithms to try to uncover your password. Having a long password with a variety of different letters, numbers, and symbols makes it much more difficult for hackers to guess your password and hack your account.
As part of the process of strengthening our security, we have implemented new password requirements for a safe, secure experience for everyone.
New passwords must contain at least:
- One lowercase character (a-z)
- One uppercase character (A-Z)
- One number (0-9)
- One special Character (e.g.,!@#$%^&*)
- 12 characters minimum
Each requirement will change from a red X to a green checkmark
when that requirement is met. You must meet all requirements before your account will accept the new password.
Note: Password cannot match the previous password.
Reusing old passwords
Reusing an old password is a security risk because if that password has ever been compromised in a data breach (even on a different website or service), hackers could use it to try and access your other accounts. Even if your FamilyTreeDNA account itself hasn't been breached, using a known compromised password makes it an easy target. This is also why it is important to set unique passwords for any account or website you visit.
NOTE: Make sure to update your password anywhere you store it-- especially in your browser or password manager.
Tips for a strong but easy-to-remember password
Creating strong passwords is difficult when you must meet so many different requirements. One tip is to think of a word or phrase that will be easy for you to remember, and replace letters with corresponding numbers or special characters.
Here are some ideas to change an easy-to-remember word or phrase into an easy-to-remember, secure password!
- A with @
- E with 3
- i with !
- S with $
- O with 0 (zero)
- N with &
Problems resetting your password
If you are unable to enter a new password, or cannot see the password requirements listed on the page, here are some things you can try:
- Refresh the page
- Close your browser and open it again
- Close the page and re-click the password reset link in the email you received
- If you are connected to a VPN, disconnect and try again
- Place your cursor in the first "Password" field and check if all requirements are met
- Make sure the passwords match in both the "Password" and "Confirm Password" fields
If you are still experiencing issues resetting your password, please reach out to us at our dedicated customer service department.