US Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Ban Chinese AI Program DeepSeek from Government Devices
Concerns Over User Data Security
US lawmakers have introduced a bill to ban the Chinese artificial intelligence program DeepSeek from being used on government devices, citing concerns over user data security. The bill was introduced by Representative Josh Gottheimer, a New Jersey Democrat, and Darin LaHood, an Illinois Republican.
Alarming Threat to US National Security
The bill comes after a Wednesday report by Feroot Security, a US cybersecurity firm, found that the AI model contains hidden code capable of transmitting user data to China Mobile, a state-owned telecoms firm. Gottheimer and LaHood have warned of an "alarming threat to US national security" and have called for the ban to prevent DeepSeek from obtaining sensitive government or personal data.
DeepSeek’s Rise to Prominence
Chinese startup DeekSeek shocked the global AI industry last month with the launch of its low-cost, high-quality chatbot, which shook the lead the United States and other countries had in the ongoing race to develop the technology.
Concerns Over Data Practice
The legislation in the House of Representatives comes as South Korean ministries and police said they were blocking DeepSeek’s access to their computers, after the company did not respond to a data watchdog request about how it manages user information. Australia has also banned DeepSeek from all government devices on the advice of security agencies, while France and Italy have raised concerns about DeepSeek’s data practice.
TikTok’s Similar Struggle
Separately, video-sharing app TikTok is facing down a US law that orders the company to divest from its Chinese owner ByteDance or be banned in the United States. The US government has expressed concerns over the company’s data collection practices and the potential for the Chinese government to access user data.
Conclusion
The introduction of this bill highlights the growing concerns over the use of Chinese technology in the US government and private sector. As the global AI industry continues to evolve, it is essential that companies prioritize user data security and transparency to maintain public trust.
FAQs
- What is DeepSeek?
DeepSeek is a Chinese artificial intelligence program that has gained popularity for its low-cost, high-quality chatbot. - Why is DeepSeek being banned from government devices?
The US lawmakers have introduced a bill to ban DeepSeek from government devices due to concerns over user data security and the potential for the Chinese government to access sensitive information. - Has DeepSeek been banned in other countries?
Yes, South Korea, Australia, France, and Italy have all raised concerns over DeepSeek’s data practice and have banned the company from accessing government devices. - Is TikTok facing similar concerns?
Yes, TikTok is facing a US law that orders the company to divest from its Chinese owner ByteDance or be banned in the United States due to concerns over data collection practices and potential access to user data by the Chinese government.