TECH – DeepSeek, a Chinese-developed AI application, has rapidly gained popularity, surpassing ChatGPT as the top free app on the U.S. iOS App Store. However, its ascent has been accompanied by significant privacy and security concerns, leading many Americans to reconsider its use.
The app’s privacy policy indicates that user data, including text inputs, prompts, uploaded files, feedback, and chat history, is stored on servers located in the People’s Republic of China. This data collection approach has raised alarms among experts who fear potential misuse by the Chinese government for surveillance, disinformation campaigns, or cyber operations. The policy’s stipulation that data may be shared with Chinese authorities upon request further exacerbates these concerns.
In response to these apprehensions, several governmental bodies have initiated actions. The Italian data protection authority is seeking detailed information on DeepSeek’s data handling practices, while the U.S. National Security Council has commenced a national security review. South Korea’s Personal Information Protection Commission and the Dutch Data Protection Authority have also launched investigations into the app’s use of personal information.
Reported from CNBC, specific regions have taken decisive measures against DeepSeek. Taiwan’s digital ministry has advised government departments to avoid using the app to mitigate information security risks. Similarly, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a ban on DeepSeek for government-issued devices, citing potential security threats.
Beyond privacy issues, DeepSeek has faced criticism for content censorship. Reports indicate that the AI model restricts discussions on topics deemed politically sensitive by the Chinese government, such as the 1989 Tiananmen Square events, the treatment of Uyghurs, and the political status of Taiwan. When prompted on these subjects, the AI often deflects, stating, “Sorry, that’s beyond my current scope. Let’s talk about something else.”
The combination of data privacy concerns and content censorship has led to a growing movement among American users to delete the DeepSeek app. While its advanced AI capabilities are acknowledged, the potential risks associated with data security and freedom of information have prompted many to seek alternative platforms that prioritize user privacy and uphold open discourse.
As the debate over DeepSeek’s presence continues, it underscores the broader challenges of balancing technological innovation with ethical considerations and national security. Users are increasingly urged to remain vigilant about the applications they adopt, ensuring that convenience and advanced features do not come at the expense of personal privacy and freedom of expression.
