DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence startup, has rapidly ascended to prominence with its AI model, now the top-rated free app on Apple's US app store. However, its success has not come without controversy. Concerns over privacy and national security have led several governments and organizations to impose restrictions on its use. These measures highlight the growing tension between technological innovation and data protection.
DeepSeek's AI Assistant achieved a significant milestone by overtaking OpenAI's ChatGPT as the top-rated free app on Apple's US app store. The open-source nature of DeepSeek's model has contributed to its widespread adoption, allowing users to access advanced AI capabilities at no cost. Despite its popularity, the model's accessibility has raised alarms about security vulnerabilities and data privacy.
The US Navy has advised its members against using DeepSeek, citing potential security and ethical concerns. This warning aligns with actions taken by the US government, which has restricted the app from some of its mobile devices. Officials have expressed "serious privacy concerns" regarding the collection and retention of sensitive personal information.
Italy's data protection authority has blocked DeepSeek entirely, criticizing the company for providing "totally insufficient" information on its use of personal data. Similarly, Taiwan's digital ministry has instructed government departments to avoid DeepSeek's services due to security issues. The state of New York has also banned DeepSeek on government devices, citing "serious concerns" over cyber threats, data privacy, safety, and state-sponsored censorship.
NASA has joined the list of US entities blocking access to DeepSeek from their systems. In South Korea, authorities have restricted DeepSeek's access to work computers after the company failed to respond to a data watchdog's inquiry about user information handling. The Dutch Data Protection Authority has advised citizens to exercise caution when using the app.
DeepSeek's operations outside the US have raised national security and privacy concerns. The company developed its AI model with an investment of only $5.6 million, significantly less than the billions spent by leading US competitors. According to its privacy policy, DeepSeek stores user information from its cloud-hosted models on servers located in China. This decision has sparked worries about potential access by the Chinese government.
US lawmakers have pointed to "direct ties" between DeepSeek and the Chinese government as a reason for concern. The company's AI model is also highly susceptible to various jailbreaking techniques, making it easier for users to bypass safety mechanisms.
"Merely a Chinese company," said Dr. Karryl Kim Sagun Trajano, reflecting on the growing suspicion surrounding DeepSeek's operations.
The international response to DeepSeek's rise highlights broader geopolitical tensions in the tech industry. Former US President Donald Trump described the situation as a "wake-up call" for Silicon Valley, emphasizing the need for American companies to remain "laser-focused on competing to win."
"Wake-up call" for Silicon Valley – US President Donald Trump
"Laser-focused on competing to win" – US President Donald Trump
Experts in the field are concerned about the implications of these developments for global AI innovation. Dr. Toby Walsh expressed apprehension that such divisions could hinder collaborative advancements in AI technology.
"It's creating this division between how AI is going to be developed, I fear," stated Dr. Toby Walsh.
In contrast, Mr. Ang highlighted the potential for countries to develop independent AI capabilities in response to these challenges.
"It's possible to build up your own sovereign AI capability," remarked Mr. Ang.
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