Italy has taken significant regulatory actions against DeepSeek, becoming the first country to block the AI app from its app stores due to data privacy concerns. The Italian data protection authority initiated this action following inquiries about the app's handling of personal data, leading to its removal from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in Italy. Users who had previously downloaded the app can still access it, but new downloads are restricted in Italy. The Italian regulator has also launched an investigation into whether DeepSeek complies with GDPR regulations, focusing on data collection practices, particularly regarding underage users and potential biases[1].
In addition to Italy, other countries are expressing concern over DeepSeek. In Ireland, the Data Protection Commission has requested information about the app's data processing practices, indicating a potential regulatory review similar to that in Italy[1]. Meanwhile, Germany's interior ministry is monitoring AI applications like DeepSeek for potential interference ahead of its national elections. Officials have raised alarms about the risk of AI influencing public opinion during this critical period[1].
In the United States, regulatory scrutiny is also intensifying. The U.S. Navy has explicitly banned the use of DeepSeek among its personnel due to security and ethical concerns. This reflects broader apprehensions among U.S. lawmakers regarding the potential risks that DeepSeek poses to user data and national security[5][6]. Additionally, recent U.S. regulations could complicate DeepSeek's operations if it is found to engage in "data brokerage," which would be prohibited under new laws aimed at restricting data transactions with Chinese companies[2].
Overall, the regulatory landscape for DeepSeek is rapidly evolving as various countries assess its implications for data privacy and national security.
Citations:
[1] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/chinas-deepseek-faces-its-first-ban-italy-blocks-it-on-iphones-and-android-phones/articleshow/117751453.cms
[2] https://www.alstonprivacy.com/deekseek-grabs-headlines-but-could-it-be-unlawful-by-april-considerations-for-companies-from-recent-us-data-regulations/
[3] https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2025/01/deepseek-and-other-chinese-firms-converge-with-western-companies-on-ai-promises?lang=en
[4] https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2k7r5nrvpo
[5] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/28/us-navy-restricts-use-of-deepseek-ai-imperative-to-avoid-using.html
[6] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/deepseek-ai-raises-national-security-concerns-trump/
[7] https://socradar.io/deepseek-cybersecurity-risks-ai-platform/