Taiwan restricts DeepSeek AI over security risks

DeepSeek AI overtook ChatGPT in downloads, triggering a major sell-off in US tech stocks.

Taiwan has warned government departments against using DeepSeek AI, citing national security risks.

Taiwan’s digital ministry has instructed government departments not to use DeepSeek’s artificial intelligence service due to security concerns. The warning highlights ongoing fears about Chinese technology, given Beijing’s claims over Taiwan and its political and military threats.

Authorities cited potential risks from cross-border data transmission and information leaks, describing DeepSeek as a threat to national security. The ministry pledged to monitor technological developments and adjust security policies accordingly.

South Korea’s privacy watchdog is also investigating DeepSeek’s handling of personal data. European regulators in France, Italy, and Ireland have launched similar inquiries into its data practices.

DeepSeek’s AI assistant recently surpassed ChatGPT in downloads from Apple’s App Store. Global investors responded by selling US tech stocks, causing Nvidia’s market value to drop by $593 billion in a historic single-day loss.