DeepSeek, a Chinese AI company, has made headlines for its cutting-edge AI technology. However, it has also attracted global scrutiny over serious privacy and security concerns. Multiple countries, including Italy, Australia, Taiwan, and India, have either banned or restricted the use of DeepSeek due to fears of data privacy violations, links to Chinese state-owned entities, and potential national security risks.
In this article, we will explore the privacy threats posed by DeepSeek, countries that have blocked it, and the global regulatory responses surrounding its operations.
What is DeepSeek & Why Is It Controversial?
DeepSeek is an AI-powered chatbot and large language model developed by a Chinese firm. While it offers functionalities similar to ChatGPT, security analysts have raised concerns about how the platform collects and stores user data.
Key Privacy Concerns with DeepSeek
- Data Storage in China:
- DeepSeek’s privacy policy confirms that all user data, including text inputs, uploaded files, and chat history, are stored on servers inside China.
- Given China’s strict cybersecurity laws, this means the Chinese government can access user data at any time.
- Transmission of Data to State-Owned Telecom Companies:
- DeepSeek transmits user login data to China Mobile, a state-owned telecommunications company with links to government surveillance.
- Compliance with Chinese National Security Laws:
- The Cybersecurity Law of China (2017) and National Intelligence Law (2017) require companies to hand over data if requested by authorities.
- This has raised concerns that DeepSeek could be used for mass data collection beyond China’s borders.
- Lack of Transparency in Data Collection:
- Investigations found insufficient details on how user data is handled, shared, or protected, leading to potential misuse and surveillance risks.
Countries That Have Banned or Restricted DeepSeek AI
1. Italy
- The Italian Data Protection Authority (Garante) banned DeepSeek due to:
- A lack of transparency in data collection.
- Failure to comply with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) standards.
- Risk of user data being accessed by Chinese authorities.
- Garante has launched a formal investigation into DeepSeek’s data processing policies.
2. Australia
- The Australian government has banned DeepSeek from all government systems due to security risks.
- Intelligence agencies highlighted concerns about national security threats, data privacy breaches, and potential cyber espionage.
- Many Australian businesses have also banned the chatbot.
3. Taiwan
- Government agencies in Taiwan have imposed a ban on DeepSeek, citing:
- Risks associated with cross-border data transfers.
- Potential leakage of sensitive government information.
- National security concerns due to DeepSeek’s ties to China Mobile.
4. United States
- While the U.S. has not imposed a nationwide ban, certain government departments have restricted the use of DeepSeek.
- The U.S. Navy, NASA, and the Pentagon’s Defense Information Systems Agency have prohibited employees from using DeepSeek due to:
- Potential data security breaches.
- Risks associated with Chinese government surveillance.
5. India
- The Indian Finance Ministry has issued a directive warning employees not to use AI tools like DeepSeek for official work.
- Concerns include:
- Confidentiality risks for government data.
- Possible unauthorized access to sensitive documents.
6. Netherlands, France & Ireland
- Regulatory agencies in these countries are investigating DeepSeek for potential violations of European privacy laws (GDPR).
- The Dutch privacy watchdog (AP) has advised against using DeepSeek due to its data-sharing practices.
DeepSeek’s Response & Future Outlook
DeepSeek has defended itself, claiming:
- It is compliant with China’s data protection laws.
- It does not share user data without consent.
- It is working on aligning with global privacy standards.
However, concerns persist as major economies continue imposing bans and restrictions.
Conclusion
The privacy risks posed by DeepSeek have led to bans and investigations across multiple countries. Governments and security agencies remain cautious about the Chinese AI ecosystem and its potential for state-controlled data access.
As global AI regulations tighten, DeepSeek will need to address transparency issues, enhance data protection policies, and comply with international privacy standards to regain trust.