Excerpt from Economic Times Article, Published on Feb 17, 2025.
Authorities worldwide are tightening their grip on DeepSeek AI, citing major security concerns. Countries including Australia, Italy, Ireland, South Korea, and the Netherlands have raised alarms over data privacy, potential censorship, and the possibility of sensitive information being transferred to the Chinese government. As a result, bans and restrictions on DeepSeek AI are increasing, with governments prohibiting its use on official devices.
Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC) has formally requested information from DeepSeek AI regarding its data processing practices in relation to Irish users. The commission has also launched further inquiries into an alleged data breach, investigating whether any Irish users were impacted. Meanwhile, Italy’s data protection authority, Garante, has imposed limitations on DeepSeek AI’s data processing activities for Italian users. The authority deemed DeepSeek AI’s response to its concerns unsatisfactory, prompting a full-scale investigation into the company’s operations.In Australia, the Ministry of Home Affairs has taken stringent action against DeepSeek AI. The department has ordered the removal of all DeepSeek AI products, applications, and web services from government systems, citing an “unacceptable level of security risk.” Authorities expressed concerns over the company’s extensive data collection and the potential for extrajudicial access by foreign governments, which contradicts Australian law.
Security experts argue that these fears are justified, particularly for India, given its geopolitical tensions with China. Reports indicate that India may soon issue an advisory against DeepSeek AI, aligning with the global scrutiny surrounding its security risks. Former NSA general counsel Glenn S. Gerstell noted that DeepSeek AI raises concerns similar to TikTok, particularly regarding data collection and content manipulation. He emphasized that the growing presence of Chinese technology in the West demands a unified risk assessment strategy. Baker suggested that localized alternatives could be developed, allowing DeepSeek AI’s technology to be used without security risks. The debate continues as global regulators navigate the complex challenges posed by DeepSeek AI.
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