US Commerce Department Bureaus Banned China's DeepSeek AI On Govt Devices: Reports
US Commerce Department Bureaus Banned China's DeepSeek AI On Govt Devices: Reports
By Srishty Kumari | Updated Mar 18, 2025, 7:03 PM IST
DeepSeek, the low-cost AI model, sent shockwaves through global equity markets in January amid concerns about its potential impact on the US technology sector. Here’s what we know so far.
U.S. Commerce Department bureaus, in a move highlighting growing concerns over data security, have reportedly prohibited using China's DeepSeek AI on government-issued devices. This decision reflects increasing apprehension among U.S. officials regarding the potential risks posed by foreign AI technologies.
According to reports, internal communications within the Commerce Department have instructed staff to refrain from downloading, accessing, or using any applications or websites related to DeepSeek on their government-furnished equipment. The core reason for this ban is the protection of sensitive government information.
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This action follows similar moves by several U.S. states, including Texas, Virginia, and New York, which have already implemented bans on DeepSeek on state government devices. Lawmakers, such as Representatives Josh Gottheimer and Darin LaHood, have been vocal in their concerns, emphasising the potential for sensitive data to be shared with the Chinese Communist Party.
The lawmakers have expressed that “By using DeepSeek, users are unknowingly sharing highly sensitive, proprietary information with the CCP — such as contracts, documents, and financial records,”.
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The rise of DeepSeek's low-cost AI models has also stirred concerns within the U.S. technology sector, with worries about potential impacts on U.S. leadership in artifical Intelligence.
This development underscores the escalating tensions surrounding technology and data security between the United States and China. As AI technology advances, governments worldwide grapple with balancing innovation with national security challenges.
Is DeepSeek banned in India?
Yes, the Indian Finance Ministry has advised against the use of AI tool DeepSeek on government devices due to data security concerns, effectively banning their use in official capacities. Is DeepSeek legal?
Several US agencies, including NASA and the Navy, have banned DeepSeek on employees' government-issued tech, and lawmakers are trying to ban the app from all government devices, which Australia and Taiwan have already implemented.
According to reports, internal communications within the Commerce Department have instructed staff to refrain from downloading, accessing, or using any applications or websites related to DeepSeek on their government-furnished equipment. The core reason for this ban is the protection of sensitive government information.
Also Read: Must Have Mobile Accessories for Content Creators
This action follows similar moves by several U.S. states, including Texas, Virginia, and New York, which have already implemented bans on DeepSeek on state government devices. Lawmakers, such as Representatives Josh Gottheimer and Darin LaHood, have been vocal in their concerns, emphasising the potential for sensitive data to be shared with the Chinese Communist Party.
The lawmakers have expressed that “By using DeepSeek, users are unknowingly sharing highly sensitive, proprietary information with the CCP — such as contracts, documents, and financial records,”.
Read More: Best Mobiles Under 10,000 : Top Picks for Budget Buyers
The rise of DeepSeek's low-cost AI models has also stirred concerns within the U.S. technology sector, with worries about potential impacts on U.S. leadership in artifical Intelligence.
This development underscores the escalating tensions surrounding technology and data security between the United States and China. As AI technology advances, governments worldwide grapple with balancing innovation with national security challenges.
- Is DeepSeek blocked in the US?