Thu Feb 06 09:31:41 UTC 2025: ## Global Concerns Mount Over Chinese AI App DeepSeek: Bans and Investigations Surge
**ROME/WASHINGTON/SYDNEY** – The meteoric rise of DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence application, has been met with swift and widespread regulatory scrutiny across the globe. Just days after its surge in popularity, several countries have implemented bans, launched investigations, or expressed serious concerns over its security and data privacy implications.
Italy was among the first to act, issuing a ban on government use and ordering its removal from app stores following an investigation into its data collection practices and compliance with EU data protection laws. DeepSeek’s claim that it doesn’t operate in Italy and is thus exempt from European legislation was deemed insufficient.
Australia has followed suit, prohibiting government employees from using the app due to “unacceptable” security risks. While the ban doesn’t extend to private citizens, the Home Affairs minister urged caution regarding online data privacy.
Taiwan has also banned DeepSeek’s use by government agencies, state-owned businesses, and public schools, citing concerns over national information security and potential cross-border data leaks.
South Korea has temporarily restricted its employees’ access to the app, while the United States is also expressing alarm. Senator Josh Hawley has introduced a bill that would effectively ban DeepSeek in the US, with potential penalties including hefty fines and imprisonment for violators.
Privacy watchdogs in Ireland, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands have also voiced concerns regarding DeepSeek’s data collection practices. The rapid international response highlights the growing global unease surrounding the security and data privacy implications of rapidly expanding AI technologies, particularly those originating from foreign powers. The situation underscores the ongoing debate over international data regulation and the balance between technological innovation and national security.
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