When comparing the privacy and data security of Microsoft 365 Copilot and DeepSeek, several key differences emerge:
Microsoft 365 Copilot
Privacy and Data Security Features:
- Permissions Model: Microsoft 365 Copilot operates within the Microsoft 365 tenant's permissions model, ensuring that users can only access data they are authorized to see. This model helps prevent unintended data leaks between users, groups, and tenants[1].
- Encryption and Compliance: Copilot honors encryption applied by Microsoft Purview Information Protection, which includes sensitivity labels and Information Rights Management (IRM). This ensures that usage rights granted to users are respected, maintaining data confidentiality[1].
- Enterprise-Grade Security: Copilot benefits from Microsoft's robust security infrastructure, which includes rigorous physical security, background screening, and multi-layered encryption strategies. Data is encrypted both at rest and in transit using technologies like BitLocker, TLS, and IPsec[1].
- Regulatory Compliance: Microsoft adheres to major privacy laws and standards, such as GDPR and ISO/IEC 27018, ensuring that Copilot meets stringent regulatory requirements[1].
DeepSeek
Privacy and Data Security Concerns:
- Data Storage and Transmission: DeepSeek stores user data on servers in China, which raises concerns about government access under China's cybersecurity laws. Additionally, the app transmits sensitive data without encryption, making it vulnerable to interception[2][5][8].
- Security Vulnerabilities: The DeepSeek iOS app has been found to have multiple security flaws, including unencrypted data transmission, weak encryption practices, and insecure data storage. These vulnerabilities increase the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access[2][8].
- Data Collection and Fingerprinting: DeepSeek collects extensive user and device data, which can be used for tracking and de-anonymization. This practice raises significant privacy concerns, especially when combined with data transmission to servers controlled by ByteDance[2][8].
- Regulatory Risks: Since DeepSeek's data is processed under Chinese laws, this poses compliance risks for organizations subject to different regulatory frameworks[5][8].
Comparison Summary
**Microsoft 365 Copilot offers robust privacy and data security features, leveraging Microsoft's enterprise-grade infrastructure to protect sensitive information. It adheres to strict regulatory standards and ensures that data access is controlled through a permissions model.
In contrast, DeepSeek faces significant privacy and security concerns due to its data storage practices in China, lack of encryption in data transmission, and identified security vulnerabilities. These issues make DeepSeek a less secure option for organizations prioritizing data protection and compliance.
Overall, Microsoft 365 Copilot is generally considered a more secure choice for organizations requiring high levels of data privacy and security.
Citations:
[1] https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/copilot/microsoft-365/microsoft-365-copilot-privacy
[2] https://krebsonsecurity.com/2025/02/experts-flag-security-privacy-risks-in-deepseek-ai-app/
[3] https://accessorange.com/choosing-ai-copilot-vs-deepseek/?swcfpc=1
[4] https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/copilot/security/privacy-data-security
[5] https://www.zdnet.com/article/what-is-deepseek-ai-is-it-safe-heres-everything-you-need-to-know/
[6] https://globextraonline.com/blogs/chatgpt-vs-deepseek-vs-copilot-39-facts-to-know/
[7] https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/copilot/privacy-and-protections
[8] https://www.nowsecure.com/blog/2025/02/06/nowsecure-uncovers-multiple-security-and-privacy-flaws-in-deepseek-ios-mobile-app/