Irish Watchdog Investigates DeepSeek’s Data Practices
The Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) has taken steps to address rising concerns over the processing of personal data by Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) company DeepSeek. This intervention comes as DeepSeek’s AI chatbot has gained immense popularity, becoming the most downloaded application in various countries, including Ireland.
Concerns About Data Storage
Worries have been raised that user data may be stored on servers located in China, a situation that poses potential risks under varying legal frameworks for data protection. Graham Doyle, Deputy Commissioner of the DPC, stated, “We have written to DeepSeek requesting information on the data processing conducted in relation to data subjects in Ireland.” This inquiry reflects the DPC’s commitment to ensuring that Irish users’ personal data is protected according to requisite privacy laws.
Italy Joins the Inquiry
Italy has also expressed similar concerns, with its data protection authority, known as the Garante, reaching out to DeepSeek for clarification regarding its handling of personal information. The Italian regulator has requested details on what personal data is collected, the sources of this data, the purposes for its collection, the legal basis for processing, and confirmation of whether any of this data is stored in China.
US National Security Implications
In the United States, the White House has acknowledged the situation, with officials examining the national security implications tied to DeepSeek’s operations. This scrutiny comes amid fears that the app could be used to collect sensitive information from users, thus posing risks across international lines.
DeepSeek’s AI Model Development
DeepSeek’s operations parallel that of AI chatbots like ChatGPT, but the company has claimed that its AI models were developed at a significantly lower cost, amounting to less than $6 million. This cost-effectiveness has raised eyebrows, especially within a landscape where US tech giants invest substantially more in AI development, leading to concerns about American competitiveness in the sector.
Advisory for Irish Users
In light of the unfolding situation, Irish politicians, such as Fianna Fáil TD Malcolm Byrne, have urged caution among citizens and businesses considering the use of DeepSeek’s app. Byrne highlighted that while data stored within Ireland or the European Union is subject to stringent safeguards, data stored in China could be accessed by the Chinese Communist Party through its National Security Law. He stated, “DeepSeek’s privacy policy provides that any personal information gathered through using its product may be stored on servers based in China,” raising alarms about potential misuse of such data.
Content Moderation Concerns
Additionally, there are apprehensions surrounding the potential for Chinese censorship in responses generated by DeepSeek. Queries about sensitive topics such as Taiwan or the Tiananmen Square protests are likely to be met with evasive responses, reflecting broader concerns about the integrity of information accessible through the AI platform.
The developments surrounding DeepSeek highlight the intricate challenges of global data privacy laws and the necessity for transparent practices as AI technologies continue to expand their reach.