DeepSeek, a prominent AI firm based in China, is facing increasing backlash from regulators globally. The company’s widely-used AI models and chatbot applications have been prohibited in an expanding number of countries and governmental organizations due to rising concerns regarding its ethical practices, privacy measures, and data security policies.
In addition to government actions, numerous corporations have also barred DeepSeek’s usage—reportedly in the hundreds. The main fear appears to be the potential leakage of data to the Chinese government. DeepSeek’s privacy policy states that all user data is stored in China, where local laws require companies to share information with intelligence agencies if requested.
As more regions impose bans on DeepSeek’s applications, we will continue to provide updates on this situation. This includes information about public sector entities that have also prohibited the use of DeepSeek technology.
Italy
Italy was among the first nations to outlaw DeepSeek following an inquiry by its privacy regulatory body regarding the company’s approach to handling personal data.
In late January, Italy’s Data Protection Authority (DPA) initiated an investigation into DeepSeek’s data collection methods and adherence to GDPR regulations—laws that govern personal data management within EU territories. The DPA gave DeepSeek a 20-day timeframe to address inquiries concerning the storage and utilization of user data.
DeepSeek contended that its applications were not subject to EU law. However, Italy’s DPA disagreed and undertook actions to remove DeepSeek’s apps from Apple and Google’s app stores in Italy.
Taiwan
Taiwan’s Ministry of Digital Affairs proclaimed that DeepSeek poses a threat to the nation’s information security and has prohibited governmental agencies from using the firm’s AI solutions.
The ministry’s statement highlighted that employees in the public sector and critical infrastructure facilities risk “cross-border transmission and data leakage” while using DeepSeek technology. The ban extends to staff members of government agencies, as well as public schools and state-owned enterprises.
“DeepSeek AI service is recognized as a Chinese product,” the Ministry of Digital Affairs’ statement declares. “Its operation raises numerous information security issues.”
U.S. Congress
Reports indicate that congressional offices in the U.S. have been cautioned against utilizing DeepSeek technology.
According to Axios, the House’s chief administrative officer (CAO), which offers support services to the House of Representatives, issued a communication to congressional offices stating that DeepSeek’s technology is currently “under review.”
The communication warned that “[t]hreat actors are leveraging DeepSeek to distribute malicious software and compromise systems.” To address these vulnerabilities, the House has instituted security measures to limit DeepSeek’s functionality on all officially issued devices.
Reports suggest that the CAO has forbidden staff members from installing DeepSeek applications on any government-issued smartphones, computers, or tablets.
Texas
TechArena.au
Watch more about AI – Artificial Intelligence
