With the explosion of DeepSeek AI earlier this year, it quickly gained popularity, reaching the pinnacle of Apple’s App Store downloads. However, this rapid rise was not without its controversies, especially concerning user data handling. South Korea took a notable stand by being the first country to ban DeepSeek AI and accusing it of sharing user data with ByteDance, the entity behind TikTok.
The Personal Information Protection Commission in South Korea intervened by temporarily halting new downloads of the DeepSeek app. While the extent and nature of the data shared remain unconfirmed, this incident signifies the first formal accusation against DeepSeek for potential data leakage to a third party.
In response to these allegations, DeepSeek appointed a representative in South Korea and acknowledged shortcomings in considering local data protection laws. The company pledged to collaborate with regulators moving forward. Despite South Korea’s decisive action, other countries like Italy, France, Germany, the US, Taiwan, and Australia have also expressed concerns about DeepSeek’s data privacy practices.
For users of DeepSeek AI, exercising caution when sharing information is crucial. Following best practices for online safety is paramount in light of these developments. Stay informed, vigilant, and refer to reliable sources for guidance on safeguarding your data and privacy online.