DeepSeek Under Fire: Allegations of Data Transfers and Military Links

Photo credit: Matheus Bertelli

 Germany's data protection commissioner, Meike Kamp, has formally requested that Apple and Google remove the Chinese AI app DeepSeek from their app stores in Germany. 

The reason:**DeepSeek allegedly transfer German users' personal data to China without adequate safeguards**,violating EU data protection laws.

Kamp started that DeepSeek failed to prove that user data stores in China is protected to EU standards. She also emphasized that Chinese authorities have broad access to data held by domestic companies, raising serious privacy concerns. Despite being asked in May to comply EU rules or withdraw voluntarily, DeepSeek didn't respond.

This move follows similar actions across Europe:

• Italy has already banned the app from its stores.
• The Netherlands barred it on government devices.
•  Belgium advised officials not to use it.
• Spain is investigating potential risks.

Adding to the controversy, Reuters reported that DeepSeek may be supporting China's military and intelligence operations further intensifying scrutiny.

If Apple and Google act on Germany's request, it could set a precedent for an EU-wide ban.