Users of DeepSeek have reported several common issues, which can be broadly categorized into technical problems, security concerns, and usability issues.
Technical Problems
1. Internet Connectivity Issues: Many users experience problems due to unstable or weak internet connections. Ensuring a stable connection is crucial for smooth operation[1].
2. Server Overload: Some users report receiving "server is busy" messages or experiencing long loading times, indicating that DeepSeek's servers may be overwhelmed at times[4].
3. Verification Code Issues: Users have reported difficulties in receiving verification codes via email, which can hinder the registration process[4][7].
4. Login and Registration Issues: Users often face challenges with logging in or registering, including failed password recognition and inability to receive password reset links[4][7].
5. Browser and Device Compatibility: Users may encounter issues due to compatibility problems with certain browsers or devices[7].
Security Concerns
1. Data Privacy Risks: DeepSeek is housed in China, raising concerns about data privacy and potential government access to user data. The app collects extensive user data, including keystroke patterns, which is stored in China[2][3].
2. Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities: The app has been found to have weak encryption, SQL injection risks, and hardcoded keys, making it vulnerable to cyber attacks[3][10].
3. Data Transmission Risks: Data is transmitted to Chinese state-owned entities and ByteDance, raising concerns about data sovereignty and national security[3][10].
4. Database Leaks: There have been reports of exposed databases containing sensitive information, such as chat history and API keys[9].
Usability Issues
1. Inaccurate Responses: Users have reported receiving inaccurate or untrustworthy information from DeepSeek, which can undermine its reliability[5].
2. Censorship: DeepSeek mirrors Chinese Communist Party lines and avoids discussing sensitive topics, which can limit its utility for users seeking unbiased information[2].
3. Anti-Debugging Mechanisms: The app employs mechanisms to obstruct security analysis, which is unusual for a company claiming transparency[3].
Overall, while DeepSeek offers advanced AI capabilities, its technical issues, security vulnerabilities, and usability limitations pose significant challenges for users.
Citations:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BWLHwbhkDE
[2] https://www.govtech.com/education/higher-ed/opinion-seeking-clarity-on-deepseek-for-higher-education
[3] https://securityscorecard.com/blog/a-deep-peek-at-deepseek/
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/LocalLLaMA/comments/1ib9fry/is_anyone_else_having_problems_with_deepseek_today/
[5] https://natlawreview.com/article/deepseek-ais-security-woes-impersonations-what-you-need-know
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/cybersecurity/comments/1icxzb3/are_there_any_legitimate_security_concerns/
[7] https://ai.tenorshare.com/deepseek-tips/deepseek-sign-up-failed.html
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/ediscovery/comments/1ibcl1n/deepseek_ai_and_legal_review/
[9] https://www.wiz.io/blog/wiz-research-uncovers-exposed-deepseek-database-leak
[10] https://krebsonsecurity.com/2025/02/experts-flag-security-privacy-risks-in-deepseek-ai-app/