Regulators Worldwide Scrutinise DeepSeek Over Data Privacy Concerns

Authorities in multiple countries have launched investigations into how Chinese AI company DeepSeek collects and processes user data.

The Netherlands has already initiated a review, advising citizens to use the service with caution and coordinating efforts with other European regulators. South Korea is preparing a formal inquiry, while France has raised additional concerns about DeepSeek’s AI models. Taiwan’s Ministry of Digital Affairs has outright banned the service in government institutions, citing security risks.

In the UK, regulators are warning businesses about the potential risks of sharing data with Chinese AI services, including DeepSeek, though no formal bans have been introduced. Ireland has requested further details on data processing practices, and Italy blocked the app in January 2025 after deeming DeepSeek’s explanations insufficient.

Meanwhile, U.S. authorities are investigating whether DeepSeek has acquired sanctioned semiconductor products through third-party countries such as Singapore. Singaporean officials have stated they are willing to cooperate with the U.S. probe.