DeepSeek Faces Global Security Scrutiny Amid Data Privacy Concerns

DeepSeek, a new AI chat platform backed by a Chinese hedge fund, is facing serious scrutiny after South Korea's data protection regulator accused it of sending user data to ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. The Personal Information Protection Commission of South Korea stated that it confirmed communications between DeepSeek and ByteDance, although the specifics of the data transferred remain unclear. In response, DeepSeek admitted to shortcomings in adhering to local data protection laws and has expressed a willingness to cooperate with investigations. U.S. lawmakers have introduced the No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act, citing national security concerns about potential data theft by the Chinese Communist Party. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the use of DeepSeek by military entities in the Philippines, with local leaders urging an assessment of the associated security risks. The growing distrust of DeepSeek has led to calls for bans in multiple countries, including Taiwan and the U.S.