DeepSeek’s rise sparks US Navy ban over data security risks

deepseek

The US Navy has prohibited its members from using the popular AI chatbot, DeepSeek, over security reasons. The reason is not surprising though. DeepSeek is a Chinese app and China requires all its apps to share personal data of users with the Chinese authorities. DeepSeek in fact has revealed that it collects much more than personal data of users in its FAQ page.

As per a CNBC report, the Navy personnels were asked not to use the app in any capacity in an email. “We would like to bring to your attention a critical update regarding a new AI model called DeepSeek,” the email said.The email stated that it’s “imperative” that team members do not use DeepSeek’s AI “for any work-related tasks or personal use” due to “potential security and ethical concerns associated with the model’s origin and usage.”

DeepSeek’s popularity has surged in the past week. It has become the most downloaded app on the App Store, surpassing even ChatGPT. While DeepSeek works similarly to ChatGPT, it avoids expressing opinions on controversial topics, especially those related to China. Unlike ChatGPT, it hasn't cost the makers of DeepSeek a fortune to build. The main reason users are flocking to the App Store to download it is that it is free and unlimited.