While DeepSeek-R1 dazzled tech circles with its affordable AI capabilities, it seems like international regulators have some serious questions about its data practices.

The trouble started when Chinese AI firm, DeepSeek, unveiled DeepSeek-R1. The model delivered top-notch AI performance, but only cost a fraction of its American competitors. Just seven days later, the Italian Data Protection Authority kicked off a formal investigation. The agency is digging into how well DeepSeek handles user data, especially since the AI company hasn't shared key information.

Italian regulators issued a restraining order that prevented all communication between Hangzhou DeepSeek Artificial Intelligence and Beijing DeepSeek Artificial Intelligence. The firm would not know what set of personal info it was collecting, or even how it handled what it obtained. If it could be stored safely on servers situated in China, fit was unknown to them.

To add to that, many other nations believe that there could be potential security risks. Taiwan’s digital ministry immediately sent a warning to government officials, advising against using the AI model. The nation warned specifically about  potential data leaks.

Things aren’t too rosy in South Korea, they said that they would question the AI team regarding their data practices, and France, Belgium, and Ireland have all asked for more transparency.

There appears to be some American involvement as well. As Reuters reported, officials in the US were told to investigate the possibility that DeepSeek was using chips manufactured in the United States. The chips are strictly banned from being exported to China.

The future of DeepSeek is a subject of mounting concern for this industry leader. As the company continues to make contentious moves, it stands to reason that their American counterparts might feel threatened, especially when their market share may be on the decrease

    It’s no surprise that there are concerns. A recent report by a security group Wizz revealed that a database owned by DeepSeek had been exposed. The incident revealed chat histories and potentially sensitive information. This could make people think twice before using AI apps from any company, regardless of where it is based.

    The best way is to keep your information safe and to not use any AI apps, period.

DeepSeek: Under worldwide scrutiny

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