DeepSeek AI App Sparks Global Concerns Over Data Privacy

DeepSeek, the Chinese AI-powered chatbot, has faced scrutiny worldwide over potential data privacy risks, with cybersecurity experts and regulatory bodies questioning its ties to ByteDance. In February, a U.S. cybersecurity firm alleged that DeepSeek may be sharing user data with ByteDance, raising concerns about inadequate data protection.

Rapid Rise and Sudden Removal

DeepSeek quickly surged to the top of App Store charts in the UK, US, and other countries but has since dropped significantly in rankings. In South Korea, the app was downloaded over a million times before being pulled from Apple and Google's App Stores on Saturday evening. However, existing users can still access the app via web browsers.

Regulatory Scrutiny and Data Privacy Concerns

South Korea's Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) confirmed a link between DeepSeek and ByteDance but stated that it had not yet determined what data had been transferred or its extent. Concerns stem from China's National Intelligence Law, which critics argue could allow the government access to private user data. ByteDance, though headquartered in Beijing, is owned by multiple global investors, with some experts arguing that the law also offers data protection safeguards.

Security Analysis and Expert Warnings

Cybersecurity firm Security Scorecard published a report on February 10, highlighting DeepSeek's integration with ByteDance's analytics and monitoring infrastructure. The firm expressed concerns that DeepSeek may be transmitting user behavior data and device metadata to ByteDance servers and domains linked to Chinese state-owned entities.

South Korea's PIPC also noted issues such as third-party data transfers and a lack of transparency in DeepSeek’s privacy policy. While DeepSeek has agreed to cooperate with authorities, it admitted shortcomings in compliance with South Korean privacy regulations.

Global Government Bans and Caution for Users

Several countries, including Australia and Taiwan, have already banned DeepSeek from government devices, citing security risks. South Korea has followed suit, reinforcing the call for caution.

Regulators have advised users to avoid entering personal information into the chatbot while further investigations continue. The BBC has reached out to the PIPC, ByteDance, and DeepSeek's parent company, High Flyer, for comments on the ongoing concerns.

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