Key Points:
- South Korea halts downloads of DeepSeek AI chatbot due to violations of data protection laws.
- The app, popular for its speed and efficiency, faces bans in multiple countries, including the U.S., Italy, and Australia.
- Investigations reveal serious privacy and cybersecurity risks, including unencrypted data transmission and potential links to Chinese state entities.
- DeepSeek’s services may resume in South Korea after compliance with local data protection regulations.
Seoul, South Korea: In a significant move against data security risks, South Korea has temporarily banned new downloads of the Chinese AI chatbot app DeepSeek. The country’s Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) announced on Monday that the app was removed from Apple’s App Store and Google Play as of February 15. This decision follows DeepSeek’s admission of non-compliance with South Korea’s stringent personal data protection laws.
While existing users can still access the app, its availability is contingent on the implementation of necessary privacy enhancements. The PIPC emphasized that aligning the app with local regulations would require considerable time and effort.
Global Scrutiny on DeepSeek: A Growing Controversy
DeepSeek, developed by a Hangzhou-based Chinese startup, has garnered international attention for its claim of being faster than OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The chatbot quickly became a sensation in South Korea, amassing over one million weekly users. However, its meteoric rise has been marred by allegations of privacy violations and national security risks.
South Korea joins a growing list of nations taking action against DeepSeek. Taiwan and Australia have banned the app from government devices, citing unacceptable security risks. In Europe, Italy and France have imposed restrictions due to concerns over data processing practices. The United States has also prohibited its use on government systems amid fears of potential links to Chinese state entities.
Privacy Violations and Security Risks
Investigations into DeepSeek have uncovered alarming privacy issues:
- Data Transmission to China: Reports suggest that user data is stored on servers in China, raising concerns about unauthorized access by Chinese authorities.
- Unencrypted Data: Researchers found that the app disables critical iOS security features like App Transport Security (ATS), allowing sensitive information to be transmitted over unencrypted channels.
- Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities: A publicly accessible database linked to DeepSeek exposed chat histories, API secrets, and operational details without proper authentication measures.
Additionally, obfuscated code in DeepSeek’s web interface reportedly connects to China Mobile, a state-owned telecom company with alleged ties to the Chinese military.
South Korean Government’s Response
South Korea’s acting President Choi Sang-mok described DeepSeek as a “shock” to the nation’s tech landscape. The government had earlier advised employees to avoid using the app on official devices. The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy also imposed restrictions on its use within government agencies.
The PIPC stated that it recommended DeepSeek suspend its services temporarily while addressing these concerns. Officials clarified that once the company complies with local data protection laws, the app could be reinstated.
International Implications
DeepSeek’s rapid expansion has disrupted global tech markets and sparked debates about AI regulation. Its low-cost development model has challenged U.S. tech dominance but raised questions about ethical standards in AI deployment. In response, several countries are tightening scrutiny over Chinese digital services.
The controversy highlights broader geopolitical tensions surrounding technology and data sovereignty. As nations grapple with balancing innovation against security risks, cases like DeepSeek underscore the urgent need for robust regulatory frameworks.
What Lies Ahead?
DeepSeek’s future in South Korea hinges on its ability to address privacy violations and comply with local regulations. While its innovative capabilities have captivated users worldwide, unresolved security issues threaten its credibility. For now, South Korea’s decisive action serves as a reminder that user safety must remain paramount in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
