A bipartisan effort is underway in the US Congress to ban DeepSeek, a Chinese AI app, from government devices due to national security concerns. The app, developed by a Chinese hedge fund, has been found to send user data to Chinese state-owned telecommunications companies, sparking fears of surveillance and data misuse.
The proposed ban is led by Representatives Josh Gottheimer and Darin LaHood, who introduced a bill to prohibit the use of DeepSeek on federal devices. This move is seen as a precautionary measure to protect sensitive government data and prevent potential Chinese government interference.
DeepSeek has gained popularity due to its cost-effective and high-performance AI capabilities, which rival those of American counterparts. However, its data collection practices have raised red flags, prompting lawmakers to take action.
The ban is not without controversy, with some experts arguing that it could hinder international collaboration in AI development and stifle innovation. Others see it as a necessary measure to safeguard national security and protect user data.
The proposed legislation includes exemptions for national security and research purposes, allowing for the continued use of DeepSeek in specific contexts. The bill is part of a broader effort to address concerns around foreign technology and national security.
