DeepSeek Banned on US Government Devices

According to reports, specific divisions within the Department of Commerce are planning to ban the use of DeepSeek on U.S. government devices.

Ban on AI Chatbot DeepSeek

Multiple U.S. Commerce Department offices have instructed their staff to cease using the AI chatbot DeepSeek on government-issued devices. Reuters reported that an email to staff stated: “To secure the Commerce Department’s information systems, access to DeepSeek, the new AI based in China, is strictly prohibited on all government-supplied equipment. Do not install, consult, or access any app, desktop application, or website related to DeepSeek.”

Government-wide Ban

The full extent of DeepSeek’s ban within the broader government remains unclear. However, states such as New York, Texas, and Virginia have already prohibited DeepSeek on their government devices. Certain members of Congress and state attorneys general are pushing for legislation to ban this generative AI app on federal devices, citing privacy and data security concerns.

Impact of DeepSeek on the Tech Market

Since its debut in January, DeepSeek has been recognized as an open-source, low-cost AI model that competes with giants like OpenAI and Google. This has led to a significant drop in U.S. tech stocks. At that time, the DeepSeek app quickly topped the Apple App Store’s rankings.

Accusations Against DeepSeek

OpenAI, a leading tech industry player, has accused Chinese startups of copying its AI models. The company stated this month that DeepSeek is “state-subsidized” and “state-controlled.” It also called for its ban on U.S. government, military, and intelligence devices.