A new legislative proposal in the United States targets DeepSeek’s AI chatbot, raising concerns over potential security risks. Lawmakers argue that the tool, created by a Chinese company, could expose sensitive government data. The bill is driven by similar apprehensions that led to the prohibition of TikTok on U.S. government devices. If passed, the legislation would prevent federal employees from using the chatbot, citing national security as the primary justification. This move aligns with broader efforts to limit foreign technology that could pose cybersecurity threats.
Previous discussions on Chinese technology firms operating in the U.S. have led to increasing scrutiny of their data practices. Restrictions on TikTok and Huawei were based on concerns about potential links to the Chinese government. Similar accusations now surround DeepSeek, particularly regarding its open-source AI model. Reports suggest that its software may be transferring user information to China Mobile, a state-owned telecommunications provider barred from the U.S. These concerns have prompted a growing number of nations to impose bans on the chatbot.
Why Are Lawmakers Concerned About DeepSeek?
Congressional representatives Darin LaHood and Josh Gottheimer, who introduced the bill, emphasize the importance of preventing foreign access to government data. They argue that restricting DeepSeek is necessary to safeguard confidential information. The chatbot’s rapid adoption in the U.S. has raised alarms, especially with its alleged ability to transmit sensitive user data. Lawmakers believe that blocking the app on government devices is a preventive step against potential security breaches.
How Have Other Countries Responded?
Several countries, including Australia, Italy, and Taiwan, have already banned DeepSeek from government platforms due to similar concerns. Investigations are also underway in France, South Korea, Ireland, and Belgium to assess the potential risks associated with the AI model. Texas recently took independent action by prohibiting its use on state government devices. The global scrutiny reflects a cautious approach to foreign AI technologies handling sensitive data.
Security researchers have analyzed DeepSeek’s code and found hidden elements that could collect user credentials. Ivan Tsarynny, CEO of cybersecurity company Feroot Security, stated that his team uncovered evidence suggesting the AI tool gathers extensive user data.
“Our personal information is being sent to China, there is no denial, and the DeepSeek tool is collecting everything that American users connect to it,”
he said. These findings reinforced lawmakers’ urgency in addressing the matter through legislative action.
DeepSeek’s rise in popularity has also sparked discussions about the competitive landscape of AI models. While some businesses view the chatbot as an affordable alternative to similar U.S.-developed tools, concerns over data privacy limit its adoption in certain sectors. The debate continues over whether restricting such technology protects national interests or stifles technological progress.
Regulating AI tools from foreign companies remains a complex issue as governments balance security with technological advancement. The proposed ban reflects broader trends of increased scrutiny on Chinese tech firms, following previous actions against other applications. The impact of such restrictions extends beyond security concerns, influencing international technology competition. Businesses relying on AI innovations must consider regulatory risks when integrating foreign-developed solutions.
