Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy is among the newest disciplines in forensic science to offer fruitful investigative leads in cases that have otherwise stalled. In addition to GEDmatch Pro, the success of FIGG has proven to be heavily dependent on genealogy companies that offer access to historical and other genealogical documents. Up until recently, Ancestry.com has been the most widely used due to its plethora of documentation. FamilySearch is also a widely recognized platform, but the wealth of information available is limited compared to that of Ancestry. Unfortunately, Ancestry changed its terms of service in August 2025, resulting in the strict prohibition of using any of their tools or services for FIGG. This has had a devastating impact on such investigations. This talk examines a mock case (one that is not associated with a law enforcement case or any judicial proceeding) to illustrate the real and specific brick walls encountered when the use of Ancestry.com is prohibited. This “case” was not solved over a 3.5 month period when Ancestry.com resources were not accessed but was solved in less than a 3.5 month period when such resources were utilized.

Author

• Catherine Cupples Connon (Virginia Commonwealth University, United States of America)