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LLaMA
AI Chatbots AI Models AI technology Chatbots ChatGPT Cloud Cyber Security Data Privacy data security DeepSeek Gemini AI LLaMA

Why Running AI Locally with an NPU Offers Better Privacy, Speed, and Reliability

 

Running AI applications locally offers a compelling alternative to relying on cloud-based chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Deepseek, especially for those concerned about data privacy, internet dependency, and speed. Though cloud services promise protections through subscription terms, the reality remains uncertain. In contrast, using AI locally means your data never leaves your device, which is particularly advantageous for professionals handling sensitive customer information or individuals wary of sharing personal data with third parties. 

Local AI eliminates the need for a constant, high-speed internet connection. This reliable offline capability means that even in areas with spotty coverage or during network outages, tools for voice control, image recognition, and text generation remain functional. Lower latency also translates to near-instantaneous responses, unlike cloud AI that may lag due to network round-trip times. 

A powerful hardware component is essential here: the Neural Processing Unit (NPU). Typical CPUs and GPUs can struggle with AI workloads like large language models and image processing, leading to slowdowns, heat, noise, and shortened battery life. NPUs are specifically designed for handling matrix-heavy computations—vital for AI—and they allow these models to run efficiently right on your laptop, without burdening the main processor. 

Currently, consumer devices such as Intel Core Ultra, Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, and Apple’s M-series chips (M1–M4) come equipped with NPUs built for this purpose. With one of these devices, you can run open-source AI models like DeepSeek‑R1, Qwen 3, or LLaMA 3.3 using tools such as Ollama, which supports Windows, macOS, and Linux. By pairing Ollama with a user-friendly interface like OpenWeb UI, you can replicate the experience of cloud chatbots entirely offline.  

Other local tools like GPT4All and Jan.ai also provide convenient interfaces for running AI models locally. However, be aware that model files can be quite large (often 20 GB or more), and without NPU support, performance may be sluggish and battery life will suffer.  

Using AI locally comes with several key advantages. You gain full control over your data, knowing it’s never sent to external servers. Offline compatibility ensures uninterrupted use, even in remote or unstable network environments. In terms of responsiveness, local AI often outperforms cloud models due to the absence of network latency. Many tools are open source, making experimentation and customization financially accessible. Lastly, NPUs offer energy-efficient performance, enabling richer AI experiences on everyday devices. 

In summary, if you’re looking for a faster, more private, and reliable AI workflow that doesn’t depend on the internet, equipping your laptop with an NPU and installing tools like Ollama, OpenWeb UI, GPT4All, or Jan.ai is a smart move. Not only will your interactions be quick and seamless, but they’ll also remain securely under your control.
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Privacy Violation
Berlin Commissioner Data Leak DeepSeek Mobile Security Privacy Violation

DeepSeek Faces Ban From App Stores in Germany

 

DeepSeek, a competitor of ChatGPT, may face legal ramifications in the European Union after the Berlin Commissioner for Data Protection ordered that Google and Apple remove the AI app from their stores. 

After discovering that the DeepSeek app violates the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Berlin Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information Meike Kamp issued a press release on June 27 urging Google and Apple to take the app down. The action follows Kamp's earlier request that DeepSeek either voluntarily remove its app from Germany or alter its procedures to safeguard the data of German users, neither of which DeepSeek did. 

"The transfer of user data by DeepSeek to China is unlawful. DeepSeek has not been able to provide my office with convincing evidence that data of German users is protected in China at a level equivalent to that of the European Union. Chinese authorities have extensive access rights to personal data held by Chinese companies,” Kamp stated. 

"In addition, DeepSeek users in China do not have enforceable rights and effective legal remedies as guaranteed in the European Union. I have therefore informed Google and Apple, as operators of the largest app platforms, of the violations and expect a prompt review of a blocking.” 

This does not imply that DeepSeek will be removed from the Google Play Store or App Store right away. Apple and Google must consider Kamp's request and choose their course of action. If the app is eventually taken down, it probably won't affect users in other countries; it might only be blocked in Germany or the EU broadly. Despite this, millions of users may be looking for a new favourite AI software, given that DeepSeek had over 50 million downloads on the Google Play Store as of July 2025.

In any case, given this news, some users might wish to get rid of the app altogether. As Kamp's news statement states, "According to its own website, [DeepSeek] processes extensive personal data of users, including all text entries, chat histories, and uploaded files, as well as information about location, devices used, and networks.” 

Users who care about their data privacy, regardless of where they live, should likely be concerned about Kamp's office's increased efforts to have DeepSeek banned in Germany or to have it provide data protection that complies with EU regulations. However, the same could be said for the majority of social media and AI apps.
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Technology
AI Chatbots Artificial Intelligence DeepSeek Microsoft Technology

Why Microsoft Says DeepSeek Is Too Dangerous to Use

 


Microsoft has openly said that its workers are not allowed to use the DeepSeek app. This announcement came from Brad Smith, the company’s Vice Chairman and President, during a recent hearing in the U.S. Senate. He said the decision was made because of serious concerns about user privacy and the risk of biased content being shared through the app.

According to Smith, Microsoft does not allow DeepSeek on company devices and hasn’t included the app in its official store either. Although other organizations and even governments have taken similar steps, this is the first time Microsoft has spoken publicly about such a restriction.

The main worry is where the app stores user data. DeepSeek's privacy terms say that all user information is saved on servers based in China. This is important because Chinese laws require companies to hand over data if asked by the government. That means any data stored through DeepSeek could be accessed by Chinese authorities.

Another major issue is how the app answers questions. It’s been noted that DeepSeek avoids topics that the Chinese government sees as sensitive. This has led to fears that the app’s responses might be influenced by government-approved messaging instead of being neutral or fact-based.

Interestingly, even though Microsoft is blocking the app itself, it did allow DeepSeek’s AI model—called R1—to be used through its Azure cloud service earlier this year. But that version works differently. Developers can download it and run it on their own servers without sending any data back to China. This makes it more secure, at least in terms of data storage.

However, there are still other risks involved. Even if the model is hosted outside China, it might still share biased content or produce low-quality or unsafe code.

At the Senate hearing, Smith added that Microsoft took extra steps to make the model safer before making it available. He said the company made internal changes to reduce any harmful behavior from the model, but didn’t go into detail about what those changes were.

When DeepSeek was first added to Azure, Microsoft said the model had passed safety checks and gone through deep testing to make sure it met company standards.

Some people have pointed out that DeepSeek could be seen as a competitor to Microsoft’s own chatbot, Copilot. But Microsoft doesn’t block every competing chatbot. For example, Perplexity is available in the Windows app store. Still, some other popular apps, like Google’s Chrome browser and its Gemini chatbot, weren’t found during a search of the store.

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Technology
Artificial Intelligence ChatGPT CyberCrime Cybersecurity CyberThreat DeepSeek Google OpenAI Technology

DeepSeek Revives China's Tech Industry, Challenging Western Giants

 



As a result of DeepSeek's emergence, the global landscape for artificial intelligence (AI) has been profoundly affected, going way beyond initial media coverage. AI-driven businesses, semiconductor manufacturing, data centres and energy infrastructure all benefit from its advancements, which are transforming the dynamics of the industry and impacting valuations across key sectors. 


DeepSeek's R1 model is one of the defining characteristics of its success, and it represents one of the technological milestones of the company. This breakthrough system can rival leading Western artificial intelligence models while using significantly fewer resources to operate. Despite conventional assumptions that Western dominance in artificial intelligence remains, Chinese R1 models demonstrate China's growing capacity to compete at the highest level of innovation at the highest levels in AI. 

The R1 model is both efficient and sophisticated. Among the many disruptive forces in artificial intelligence, DeepSeek has established itself as one of the most efficient, scalable, and cost-effective systems on the market. It is built on a Mixture of Experts (MoE) architecture, which optimizes resource allocation by utilizing only relevant subnetworks to enhance performance and reduce computational costs at the same time. 

DeepSeek's innovation places it at the forefront of a global AI race, challenging Western dominance and influencing industry trends, investment strategies, and geopolitical competition while influencing industry trends. Even though its impact has spanned a wide range of industries, from technology and finance to energy, there is no doubt that a shift toward a decentralized AI ecosystem has taken place. 

As a result of DeepSeek's accomplishments, a turning point has been reached in the development of artificial intelligence worldwide, emphasizing the fact that China is capable of rivalling and even surpassing established technological leaders in certain fields. There is a shift indicating the emergence of a decentralized AI ecosystem in which innovation is increasingly spread throughout multiple regions rather than being concentrated in Western markets alone. 

Changing power balances in artificial intelligence research, commercialization, and industrial applications are likely to be altered as a result of the intensifying competition that is likely to persist. China's technology industry has experienced a wave of rapid innovation as a result of the emergence of DeepSeek as one of the most formidable competitors in artificial intelligence (AI). As a result of DeepSeek’s alleged victory over OpenAI last January, leading Chinese companies have launched several AI-based solutions based on a cost-effective artificial intelligence model developed at a fraction of conventional costs. 

The surge in artificial intelligence development poses a direct threat to both OpenAI and Alphabet Inc.’s Google, as well as the greater AI ecosystem that exists in Western nations. Over the past two weeks, major Chinese companies have unveiled no less than ten significant AI products or upgrades, demonstrating a strong commitment to redefining global AI competition. In addition to DeepSeek's technological achievements, this rapid succession of advancements was not simply a reaction to that achievement, but rather a concerted effort to set new standards for the global AI community. 

According to Baidu Inc., it has launched a new product called the Ernie X1 as a direct rival to DeepSeek's R1, while Alibaba Group Holding Ltd has announced several enhancements to its artificial intelligence reasoning model. At the same time, Tencent Holdings Ltd. has revealed its strategic AI roadmap, presenting its own alternative to the R1 model, and Ant Group Co. has revealed research that indicated domestically produced chips can be used to cut costs by up to 20 per cent. 

A new version of DeepSeek was unveiled by DeepSeek, a company that continues to grow, while Meituan, a company widely recognized as being the world's largest meal delivery platform, has made significant investment in artificial intelligence. As China has become increasingly reliant on open-source artificial intelligence development, established Western technology companies are being pressured to reassess their business strategies as a result. 

According to OpenAI, as a response to DeepSeek’s success, the company is considering a hybrid approach that may include freeing up certain technologies, while at the same time contemplating substantial increases in prices for its most advanced artificial intelligence models. There is also a chance that the widespread adoption of cost-effective AI solutions could have profound effects on the semiconductor industry in general, potentially hurting Nvidia's profits as well. 

Analysts expect that as DeepSeek's economic AI model gains traction, it may become inevitable that leading AI chip manufacturers' valuations are adjusted. Chinese artificial intelligence innovation is on the rise at a rapid pace, underscoring a fundamental shift in the global technology landscape. In the world of artificial intelligence, Chinese firms are increasingly asserting their dominance, while Western firms are facing mounting challenges in maintaining their dominance. 

As the long-term consequences of this shift remain undefined, the current competitive dynamic within China's AI sector indicates an emerging competitive dynamic that could potentially reshape the future of artificial intelligence worldwide. The advancements in task distribution and processing of DeepSeek have allowed it to introduce a highly cost-effective way to deploy artificial intelligence (AI). Using computational efficiency, the company was able to develop its AI model for around $5.6 million, a substantial savings compared to the $100 million or more that Western competitors typically require to develop a similar AI model. 

By introducing a resource-efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional models of artificial intelligence, this breakthrough has the potential to redefine the economic landscape of artificial intelligence. As a result of its ability to minimize reliance on high-performance computing resources, DeepSeekcano reduces costs by reducing the number of graphics processing units (GPUs) used. As a result, the model operates with a reduced number of graphics processing unit (GPU) hours, resulting in a significant reduction in hardware and energy consumption. 

Although the United States has continued to place sanctions against microchips, restricting China's access to advanced semiconductor technologies, DeepSeek has managed to overcome these obstacles by using innovative technological solutions. It is through this resilience that we can demonstrate that, even in challenging regulatory and technological environments, it is possible to continue to develop artificial intelligence. DeepSeek's cost-effective approach influences the broader market trends beyond AI development, and it has been shown to have an impact beyond AI development. 

During the last few years, a decline in the share price of Nvidia, one of the leading manufacturers of artificial intelligence chips, has occurred as a result of the move toward lower-cost computation. It is because of this market adjustment, which Apple was able to regain its position as the world's most valuable company by market capitalization. The impact of DeepSeek's innovations extends beyond financial markets, as its AI model requires fewer computations and operates with a lower level of data input, so it does not rely on expensive computers and big data centres to function. 

The result of this is not only a lower infrastructure cost but also a lower electricity consumption, which makes AI deployments more energy-efficient. As AI-driven industries continue to evolve, DeepSeek's model may catalyze a broader shift toward more sustainable, cost-effective AI solutions. The rapid advancement of technology in China has gone far beyond just participating in the DeepSeek trend. The AI models developed by Chinese developers, which are largely open-source, are collectively positioned as a concerted effort to set global benchmarks and gain a larger share of the international market. 

Even though it is still unclear whether or not these innovations will ultimately surpass the capabilities of the Western counterparts of these innovations, a significant amount of pressure is being exerted on the business models of the leading technology companies in the United States as a result of them. It is for this reason that OpenAI is attempting to maintain a strategic balance in its work. As a result, the company is contemplating the possibility of releasing certain aspects of its technology as open-source software, as inspired by DeepSeek's success with open-source software. 

Furthermore, it may also contemplate charging higher fees for its most advanced services and products. ASeveralindustry analysts, including Amr Awadallah, the founder and CEO of Vectara Inc., advocate the spread of DeepSeek's cost-effective model. If premium chip manufacturers, such as Nvidia, are adversely affected by this trend,theyt will likely have to adjust market valuations, causing premium chip manufacturers to lose profit margins.
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Technology
AI Alibaba China Cloud DeepSeek GenAI Technology

Alibaba Launches Latest Open-source AI Model from Qwen Series for ‘Cost-effective AI agents’

Alibaba Launches Lates Open-source AI Model from Qwen Series for ‘Cost-effective AI agents’

Last week, Alibaba Cloud launched its latest AI model in its “Qwen series,” as large language model (LLM) competition in China continues to intensify after the launch of famous “DeepSeek” AI.

The latest "Qwen2.5-Omni-7B" is a multimodal model- it can process inputs like audio/video, text, and images- while also creating real-time text and natural speech responses, Alibaba’s cloud website reports. It also said that the model can be used on edge devices such as smartphones, providing higher efficiency without giving up on performance. 

According to Alibaba, the “unique combination makes it the perfect foundation for developing agile, cost-effective AI agents that deliver tangible value, especially intelligent voice applications.” For instance, the AI can be used to assist visually impaired individuals to navigate their environment via real-time audio description. 

The latest model is open-sourced on forums GitHub and Hugging Face, after a rising trend in China post DeepSeek breakthrough R1 model open-source. Open-source means a software in which the source code is created freely on web for potential modification and redistribution. 

In recent years, Alibaba claims it has open-sourced more that 200 generative AI models. In the noise of China’s AI dominance intensified by DeepSeek due to its shoe string budget and capabilities, Alibaba and genAI competitors are also releasing new, cost-cutting models and services an exceptional case.

Last week, Chinese tech mammoth Baidu launched a new multimodal foundational model and its first reasoning-based model. Likewise, Alibaba introduced its updated Qwen 2.5 AI model in January and also launched a new variant of its AI assistant tool Quark this month. 

Alibaba has also made strong commitments to its AI plan, recently, it announced a plan to put $53 billion in its cloud computing and AI infrastructure over the next three years, even surpassing its spending in the space over the past decade. 

CNBC talked with Kai Wang, Asia Senior equity analyst at Morningstar, Mr Kai told CNBC that “large Chinese tech players such as Alibaba, which build data centers to meet the computing needs of AI in addition to building their own LLMs, are well positioned to benefit from China's post-DeepSeek AI boom.” According to CNBC, “Alibaba secured a major win for its AI business last month when it confirmed that the company was partnering with Apple to roll out AI integration for iPhones sold in China.”

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enterprise cybersecurity
AI Chatbots AI Risks AI technology Chatbots ChatGPT. OpenAI Cyber Security data security DeepSeek enterprise cybersecurity

DeepSeek AI: Benefits, Risks, and Security Concerns for Businesses

 

DeepSeek, an AI chatbot developed by China-based High-Flyer, has gained rapid popularity due to its affordability and advanced natural language processing capabilities. Marketed as a cost-effective alternative to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, DeepSeek has been widely adopted by businesses looking for AI-driven insights. 

However, cybersecurity experts have raised serious concerns over its potential security risks, warning that the platform may expose sensitive corporate data to unauthorized surveillance. Reports suggest that DeepSeek’s code contains embedded links to China Mobile’s CMPassport.com, a registry controlled by the Chinese government. This discovery has sparked fears that businesses using DeepSeek may unknowingly be transferring sensitive intellectual property, financial records, and client communications to external entities. 

Investigative findings have drawn parallels between DeepSeek and TikTok, the latter having faced a U.S. federal ban over concerns regarding Chinese government access to user data. Unlike TikTok, however, security analysts claim to have found direct evidence of DeepSeek’s potential backdoor access, raising further alarms among cybersecurity professionals. Cybersecurity expert Ivan Tsarynny warns that DeepSeek’s digital fingerprinting capabilities could allow it to track users’ web activity even after they close the app. 

This means companies may be exposing not just individual employee data but also internal business strategies and confidential documents. While AI-driven tools like DeepSeek offer substantial productivity gains, business leaders must weigh these benefits against potential security vulnerabilities. A complete ban on DeepSeek may not be the most practical solution, as employees often adopt new AI tools before leadership can fully assess their risks. Instead, organizations should take a strategic approach to AI integration by implementing governance policies that define approved AI tools and security measures. 

Restricting DeepSeek’s usage to non-sensitive tasks such as content brainstorming or customer support automation can help mitigate data security concerns. Enterprises should prioritize the use of vetted AI solutions with stronger security frameworks. Platforms like OpenAI’s ChatGPT Enterprise, Microsoft Copilot, and Claude AI offer greater transparency and data protection. IT teams should conduct regular software audits to monitor unauthorized AI use and implement access restrictions where necessary. 

Employee education on AI risks and cybersecurity threats will also be crucial in ensuring compliance with corporate security policies. As AI technology continues to evolve, so do the challenges surrounding data privacy. Business leaders must remain proactive in evaluating emerging AI tools, balancing innovation with security to protect corporate data from potential exploitation.
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Technology
AI Tool DeepSeek Generative AI HKGAI V1 Hong Kong Technology

Hong Kong Launches Its First Generative AI Model

 

Last week, Hong Kong launched its first generative artificial intelligence (AI) model, HKGAI V1, ushering in a new era in the city's AI development. The tool was designed by the Hong Kong Generative AI Research and Development Centre (HKGAI) for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government's InnoHK innovation program. 

The locally designed AI tool, which is driven by DeepSeek's data learning model, has so far been tested by about 70 HKSAR government departments. According to a press statement from HKGAI, this innovative accomplishment marks the successful localisation of DeepSeek in Hong Kong, injecting new vitality to the city's AI ecosystem and demonstrating the strong collaborative innovation capabilities between Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland in AI. 

Sun Dong, the HKSAR government's Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry, highlighted during the launch ceremony that artificial intelligence (AI) is in the vanguard of a new industrial revolution and technical revolution, and Hong Kong is actively participating in this wave. 

Sun also emphasised the HKSAR government's broader efforts to encourage AI research, which include the building of an AI supercomputing centre, a 3-billion Hong Kong dollar (386 million US dollar) AI funding plan, and the clustering of over 800 AI enterprises at Science Park and Cyberport. He expressed confidence that the locally produced large language model will soon be available for usage by not just enterprises and people, but also for overseas Chinese communities. 

DeepSeek, founded by Liang Wengfeng, previously stunned the world with its low-cost AI model, which was created with substantially fewer processing resources than larger US tech businesses such as OpenAI and Meta. The HKGAI V1 system is the first in the world to use DeepSeek's full-parameter fine-tuning research methodology. 

The financial secretary allocated HK$1 billion (US$128.6 million) in the budget to build the Hong Kong AI Research and Development Institute. The government intends to start the institute by the fiscal year 2026-27, with cash set aside for the first five years to cover operational costs, including employing staff. 

“Our goal is to ensure Hong Kong’s leading role in the development of AI … So the Institute will focus on facilitating upstream research and development [R&D], midstream and downstream transformation of R&D outcomes, and expanding application scenarios,” Sun noted.
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South Korea
AI Apps AI technology Data Privacy data security DeepSeek Privacy privacy laws South Korea

South Korea Blocks DeepSeek AI App Downloads Amid Data Security Investigation

 

South Korea has taken a firm stance on data privacy by temporarily blocking downloads of the Chinese AI app DeepSeek. The decision, announced by the Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC), follows concerns about how the company collects and handles user data. 

While the app remains accessible to existing users, authorities have strongly advised against entering personal information until a thorough review is complete. DeepSeek, developed by the Chinese AI Lab of the same name, launched in South Korea earlier this year. Shortly after, regulators began questioning its data collection practices. 

Upon investigation, the PIPC discovered that DeepSeek had transferred South Korean user data to ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. This revelation raised red flags, given the ongoing global scrutiny of Chinese tech firms over potential security risks. South Korea’s response reflects its increasing emphasis on digital sovereignty. The PIPC has stated that DeepSeek will only be reinstated on app stores once it aligns with national privacy regulations. 

The AI company has since appointed a local representative and acknowledged that it was unfamiliar with South Korea’s legal framework when it launched the service. It has now committed to working with authorities to address compliance issues. DeepSeek’s privacy concerns extend beyond South Korea. Earlier this month, key government agencies—including the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, as well as Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power—temporarily blocked the app on official devices, citing security risks. 

Australia has already prohibited the use of DeepSeek on government devices, while Italy’s data protection agency has ordered the company to disable its chatbot within its borders. Taiwan has gone a step further by banning all government departments from using DeepSeek AI, further illustrating the growing hesitancy toward Chinese AI firms. 

DeepSeek, founded in 2023 by Liang Feng in Hangzhou, China, has positioned itself as a competitor to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, offering a free, open-source AI model. However, its rapid expansion has drawn scrutiny over potential data security vulnerabilities, especially in regions wary of foreign digital influence. South Korea’s decision underscores the broader challenge of regulating artificial intelligence in an era of increasing geopolitical and technological tensions. 

As AI-powered applications become more integrated into daily life, governments are taking a closer look at the entities behind them, particularly when sensitive user data is involved. For now, DeepSeek’s future in South Korea hinges on whether it can address regulators’ concerns and demonstrate full compliance with the country’s strict data privacy standards. Until then, authorities remain cautious about allowing the app’s unrestricted use.
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DeepSeek
AI Models AI technology AI Threat China Cyber Security Data Mining Data Privacy data security DeepSeek

DeepSeek AI Raises Data Security Concerns Amid Ties to China

 

The launch of DeepSeek AI has created waves in the tech world, offering powerful artificial intelligence models at a fraction of the cost compared to established players like OpenAI and Google. 

However, its rapid rise in popularity has also sparked serious concerns about data security, with critics drawing comparisons to TikTok and its ties to China. Government officials and cybersecurity experts warn that the open-source AI assistant could pose a significant risk to American users. 

On Thursday, two U.S. lawmakers announced plans to introduce legislation banning DeepSeek from all government devices, citing fears that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) could access sensitive data collected by the app. This move follows similar actions in Australia and several U.S. states, with New York recently enacting a statewide ban on government systems. 

The growing concern stems from China’s data laws, which require companies to share user information with the government upon request. Like TikTok, DeepSeek’s data could be mined for intelligence purposes or even used to push disinformation campaigns. Although the AI app is the current focus of security conversations, experts say that the risks extend beyond any single model, and users should exercise caution with all AI systems. 

Unlike social media platforms that users can consciously avoid, AI models like DeepSeek are more difficult to track. Dimitri Sirota, CEO of BigID, a cybersecurity company specializing in AI security compliance, points out that many companies already use multiple AI models, often switching between them without users’ knowledge. This fluidity makes it challenging to control where sensitive data might end up. 

Kelcey Morgan, senior manager of product management at Rapid7, emphasizes that businesses and individuals should take a broad approach to AI security. Instead of focusing solely on DeepSeek, companies should develop comprehensive practices to protect their data, regardless of the latest AI trend. The potential for China to use DeepSeek’s data for intelligence is not far-fetched, according to cybersecurity experts. 

With significant computing power and data processing capabilities, the CCP could combine information from multiple sources to create detailed profiles of American users. Though this might not seem urgent now, experts warn that today’s young, casual users could grow into influential figures worth targeting in the future. 

To stay safe, experts advise treating AI interactions with the same caution as any online activity. Users should avoid sharing sensitive information, be skeptical of unusual questions, and thoroughly review an app’s terms and conditions. Ultimately, staying informed and vigilant about where and how data is shared will be critical as AI technologies continue to evolve and become more integrated into everyday life.
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Privacy
Artificial Intelligence Data Regulation DeepSeek European Union Privacy

Why European Regulators Are Investigating Chinese AI firm DeepSeek

 


European authorities are raising concerns about DeepSeek, a thriving Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) company, due to its data practices. Italy, Ireland, Belgium, Netherlands, France regulators are examining the data collection methods of this firm, seeing whether they comply with the European General Data Protection Regulation or, if they also might consider that personal data is anyway transferred unlawfully to China.

Hence, due to these issues, the Italian authority has released a temporary restrainment to access the DeepSeek chatbot R1 for the time-being under which investigation will be conducted on what and how data get used, and how much has affected training in the AI model.  


What Type of Data Does DeepSeek Actually Collect? 

DeepSeek collects three main forms of information from the user: 

1. Personal data such as names and emails.  

2. Device-related data, including IP addresses.  

3. Data from third parties, such as Apple or Google logins.  

Moreover, there is an action that an app would be able to opt to take if at all that user was active elsewhere on those devices for "Community Security." Unlike many companies I have said where there are actual timelines or limits on data retention, it is stated that retention of data can happen indefinitely by DeepSeek. This can also include possible sharing with others-advertisers, analytics firms, governments, and copyright holders.  

Noting that most AI companies like the case of OpenAI's ChatGPT and Anthropic's Claude have met such privacy issues, experts would observe that DeepSeek doesn't expressly provide users the rights to deletion or restrictions on its use of their data as mandated requirement in the GDPR.  


The Collected Data Where it Goes  

One of major problems of DeepSeek is that it saves user data in China. Supposedly, the company has secure security measures in place for the data set and observes local laws for data transfer, but from a legal perspective, there is no valid basis being presented by DeepSeek concerning the storing of data from its European users outside the EU.  

According to the EDPB, privacy laws in China lay more importance on "stability of community than that of individual privacy," thus permitting broadly-reaching access to personal data for purposes such as national security or criminal investigations. Yet it is not clear whether that of foreign users will be treated differently than that of Chinese citizens. 


Cybersecurity and Privacy Threats 

As accentuated by cyber crime indices in 2024, China is one of the countries most vulnerable to cyberattacks. Cisco's latest report shows that DeepSeek's AI model does not have such strong security against hacking attempts. Other AI models can block at least some "jailbreak" cyberattacks, while DeepSeek turned out to be completely vulnerable to such assaults, which have made it softer for manipulation. 


Should Users Worry? 

According to experts, users ought to exercise caution when using DeepSeek and avoid sharing highly sensitive personal details. The uncertain policies of the company with respect to data protection, storage in China, and relatively weak security defenses could avail pretty heavy risks to users' privacy and as such warrant such caution. 

European regulators will then determine whether DeepSeek will be allowed to conduct business in the EU as investigations continue. Until then, users should weigh risks against their possible exposure when interacting with the platform. 



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Technology
Artificial Intelligence ChatGPT DeepSeek Finance ministry Technology

Finance Ministry Bans Use of AI Tools Like ChatGPT and DeepSeek in Government Work

 


The Ministry of Finance, under Nirmala Sitharaman’s leadership, has issued a directive prohibiting employees from using artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek for official work. The decision comes over concerns about data security as these AI-powered platforms process and store information externally, potentially putting confidential government data at risk.  


Why Has the Finance Ministry Banned AI Tools?  

AI chatbots and virtual assistants have gained popularity for their ability to generate text, answer questions, and assist with tasks. However, since these tools rely on cloud-based processing, there is a risk that sensitive government information could be exposed or accessed by unauthorized parties.  

The ministry’s concern is that official documents, financial records, and policy decisions could unintentionally be shared with external AI systems, making them vulnerable to cyber threats or misuse. By restricting their use, the government aims to safeguard national data and prevent potential security breaches.  


Public Reactions and Social Media Buzz

The announcement quickly sparked discussions online, with many users sharing humorous takes on the decision. Some questioned how government employees would manage their workload without AI assistance, while others speculated whether Indian AI tools like Ola Krutrim might be an approved alternative.  

A few of the popular reactions included:  

1. "How will they complete work on time now?" 

2. "So, only Ola Krutrim is allowed?"  

3. "The Finance Ministry is switching back to traditional methods."  

4. "India should develop its own AI instead of relying on foreign tools."  


India’s Position in the Global AI Race

With AI development accelerating worldwide, several countries are striving to build their own advanced models. China’s DeepSeek has emerged as a major competitor to OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, increasing the competition in the field.  

The U.S. has imposed trade restrictions on Chinese AI technology, leading to growing tensions in the tech industry. Meanwhile, India has yet to launch an AI model capable of competing globally, but the government’s interest in regulating AI suggests that future developments could be on the horizon.  

While the Finance Ministry’s move prioritizes data security, it also raises questions about efficiency. AI tools help streamline work processes, and their restriction could lead to slower operations in certain departments.  

Experts suggest that India should focus on developing AI models that are secure and optimized for government use, ensuring that innovation continues without compromising confidential information.  

For now, the Finance Ministry’s stance reinforces the need for careful regulation of AI technologies, ensuring that security remains a top priority in government operations.



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Technology
Artificial Intelligence China DeepSeek Garante Italy Technology

Italy Takes Action Against DeepSeek AI Over User Data Risks

 



Italy’s data protection authority, Garante, has ordered Chinese AI chatbot DeepSeek to halt its operations in the country. The decision comes after the company failed to provide clear answers about how it collects and handles user data. Authorities fear that the chatbot’s data practices could pose security risks, leading to its removal from Italian app stores.  


Why Did Italy Ban DeepSeek?  

The main reason behind the ban is DeepSeek’s lack of transparency regarding its data collection policies. Italian regulators reached out to the company with concerns over whether it was handling user information in a way that aligns with European privacy laws. However, DeepSeek’s response was deemed “totally insufficient,” raising even more doubts about its operations.  

Garante stated that DeepSeek denied having a presence in Italy and claimed that European regulations did not apply to it. Despite this, authorities believe that the company’s AI assistant has been accessible to Italian users, making it subject to the region’s data protection rules. To address these concerns, Italy has launched an official investigation into DeepSeek’s activities.  


Growing Concerns Over AI and Data Security  

DeepSeek is an advanced AI chatbot developed by a Chinese startup, positioned as a competitor to OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini. With over 10 million downloads worldwide, it is considered a strong contender in the AI market. However, its expansion into Western countries has sparked concerns about how user data might be used.  

Italy is not the only country scrutinizing DeepSeek’s data practices. Authorities in France, South Korea, and Ireland have also launched investigations, highlighting global concerns about AI-driven data collection. Many governments fear that personal data gathered by AI chatbots could be misused for surveillance or other security threats.  

This is not the first time Italy has taken action against an AI company. In 2023, Garante temporarily blocked OpenAI’s ChatGPT over privacy issues. OpenAI was later fined €15 million after being accused of using personal data to train its AI without proper consent.  


Impact on the AI and Tech Industry

The crackdown on DeepSeek comes at a time when AI technology is shaping global markets. Just this week, concerns over China’s growing influence in AI led to a significant drop in the U.S. stock market. The NASDAQ 100 index lost $1 trillion in value, with AI chipmaker Nvidia alone suffering a $600 million loss.  

While DeepSeek has been removed from Italian app stores, users who downloaded it before the ban can still access the chatbot. Additionally, its web-based version remains functional, raising questions about how regulators will enforce the restriction effectively.  

As AI continues to make new advancements, countries are becoming more cautious about companies that fail to meet privacy and security standards. With multiple nations now investigating DeepSeek, its future in Western markets remains uncertain.



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DeepSeek’s Data Use Raises Regulatory Concerns

 


There have been numerous scandals surrounding this artificial intelligence company which had astonished the world by seemingly rivaling the successful chatbot ChatGPT at a fraction of the cost. However, now, regulators and privacy advocates have raised questions about the safety of users' data after the company launched its service. 

A government probe into what data the company collects and how it is stored has resulted in regulators in Italy blocking the app from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, as they investigate how they collect that data. As a result of DeepSeek's failure to address the regulator's concerns regarding its privacy policy, the Italian data protection authority, the Garante, ordered that it block its chatbot within its borders on Thursday. 

The DeepSeek company was founded in Hangzhou, China, and it has grown quickly since then. Liang Feng started the company in 2023. In 2016 he founded the $7 billion hedge fund group High-Flyer with two other business classmates who attended the same university. As a result, DeepSeek was investigated by the China-based watchdog Xinhua this week about how their data is used. They were looking for information on what personal data is collected, from what sources, for what purpose, and under what legal basis. 

A business intelligence startup based in China, DeepSeek, has received much attention in recent months as a result of its rapid growth. However, many corporate finance departments have raised concerns about the security of the startup. DeepSeek, a free application powered by Artificial Intelligence, achieved the most downloads on the U.S. iOS App Store within weeks of its launch, surpassing OpenAI's ChatGPT, which had gained popularity within weeks. 

While the company's popularity has skyrocketed recently, it has drawn the attention of cybersecurity experts and regulators, causing alarms to be raised about data security, intellectual property risks, as well as regulatory compliance issues. DeepSeek's privacy policy states that the service collects a variety of information about its users, including chat and search query history, device information, keystroke patterns, IP addresses, internet connection, and activity from other apps, as well as information about their activities on the deep seek service. 

The same data collection practices are employed by other AI services, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT, Anthropic's Claude, or Perplexity. Similarly, popular social media apps, such as Facebook, Instagram, and X, also record a great deal of user data. Regulators have sometimes questioned this kind of data-gathering practice. A new model of the DeepSeek software, DeepSeek R1, was unveiled by the company in January. This is a free AI-powered chatbot whose look and feel are very similar to that of ChatGPT by OpenAITM, based in California. 

It is a type of computer program that simulates a human-like conversation with a user through questioning the bot. The bot will then respond to the questions asked using the information it has access to on the internet that it has been trained to handle in a conversation. There are many possible uses for these programs, including solving mathematics problems, writing drafts of texts such as emails and documents, and translating, or even writing codes, among a multitude of other possibilities.

In the view of experts, DeepSeek's risks go beyond those of TikTok, which has been under scrutiny and could be banned at some point. “DeepSeek raises all the problems that TikTok has raised plus more,” said Stewart Baker, a Washington-based attorney who is a former official of the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. To provide these advanced AI models with high levels of accuracy, users need to entrust them with highly sensitive personal information and business information. 

If users' data can be accessed by an adversary, either intelligence implications are significant" Increasingly, DeepSeek's AI technology is being used to conduct business research, personal inquiries, and content generation, resulting in an enormous amount of valuable data that DeepSeek is generating. A study conducted by Feroot suggests DeepSeek's login system utilizes fingerprinting techniques, which tech firms widely use to track the devices of their users to improve security and target advertisements. 

Although there is no conclusive proof of Chinese government involvement in this case, the links to China Mobile's identity and authentication infrastructure indicate that Chinese state involvement has taken place. There has been no response to DeepSeek's requests for comment, leaving critical questions about how far they collaborate with China Mobile and how safe the data of their users is unanswered. Given the increased scrutiny surrounding Chinese-controlled digital platforms, regulators may soon take further action against DeepSeek, mirroring efforts already directed towards TikTok, as a response to the increasing scrutiny regarding these platforms. 

A tightening of export regulations was implemented under the Biden administration to prevent China from developing artificial intelligence as quickly as possible.  There are several questions that DeepSeek's success raises regarding the effectiveness of these controls, as well as the status of Washington and Beijing's broader technology battle.   Among the researchers who study Chinese cybersecurity at Yale, Samm Sacks, said that DeepSeek could pose a significant national security threat to the United States, as he pointed out. 

According to the public reports that have been made, no Chinese officials are currently trying to obtain personal data about U.S. citizens by using DeepSeek. In contrast to the debate over TikTok, the fears about China boil down to the mere possibility that Beijing may make use of Americans' data for its purposes, and that is enough to trigger concern. In addition to Sacks's astute assessment of what DeepSeek might mean for Americans' data, he pointed out that there are two other major factors to be considered. First, the Chinese government already possesses an unimaginable amount of data on them. 

In December, Chinese hackers broke into the U.S. A group of Chinese hackers has infiltrated the Treasury Department's computer systems in the past year. They have since been infiltrating US telecom companies to spy on American texts and calls. It should also be noted that there is a vast web of digital data brokers who routinely buy and sell a massive amount of data on Americans.
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DeepSeek’s Rise: A Game-Changer in the AI Industry


January 27 marked a pivotal day for the artificial intelligence (AI) industry, with two major developments reshaping its future. First, Nvidia, the global leader in AI chips, suffered a historic loss of $589 billion in market value in a single day—the largest one-day loss ever recorded by a company. Second, DeepSeek, a Chinese AI developer, surged to the top of Apple’s App Store, surpassing ChatGPT. What makes DeepSeek’s success remarkable is not just its rapid rise but its ability to achieve high-performance AI with significantly fewer resources, challenging the industry’s reliance on expensive infrastructure.

DeepSeek’s Innovative Approach to AI Development

Unlike many AI companies that rely on costly, high-performance chips from Nvidia, DeepSeek has developed a powerful AI model using far fewer resources. This unexpected efficiency disrupts the long-held belief that AI breakthroughs require billions of dollars in investment and vast computing power. While companies like OpenAI and Anthropic have focused on expensive computing infrastructure, DeepSeek has proven that AI models can be both cost-effective and highly capable.

DeepSeek’s AI models perform at a level comparable to some of the most advanced Western systems, yet they require significantly less computational power. This approach could democratize AI development, enabling smaller companies, universities, and independent researchers to innovate without needing massive financial backing. If widely adopted, it could reduce the dominance of a few tech giants and foster a more inclusive AI ecosystem.

Implications for the AI Industry

DeepSeek’s success could prompt a strategic shift in the AI industry. Some companies may emulate its focus on efficiency, while others may continue investing in resource-intensive models. Additionally, DeepSeek’s open-source nature adds an intriguing dimension to its impact. Unlike OpenAI, which keeps its models proprietary, DeepSeek allows its AI to be downloaded and modified by researchers and developers worldwide. This openness could accelerate AI advancements but also raises concerns about potential misuse, as open-source AI can be repurposed for unethical applications.

Another significant benefit of DeepSeek’s approach is its potential to reduce the environmental impact of AI development. Training AI models typically consumes vast amounts of energy, often through large data centers. DeepSeek’s efficiency makes AI development more sustainable by lowering energy consumption and resource usage.

However, DeepSeek’s rise also brings challenges. As a Chinese company, it faces scrutiny over data privacy, security, and censorship. Like other AI developers, DeepSeek must navigate issues related to copyright and the ethical use of data. While its approach is innovative, it still grapples with industry-wide challenges that have plagued AI development in the past.

A More Competitive AI Landscape

DeepSeek’s emergence signals the start of a new era in the AI industry. Rather than a few dominant players controlling AI development, we could see a more competitive market with diverse solutions tailored to specific needs. This shift could benefit consumers and businesses alike, as increased competition often leads to better technology at lower prices.

However, it remains unclear whether other AI companies will adopt DeepSeek’s model or continue relying on resource-intensive strategies. Regardless, DeepSeek has already challenged conventional thinking about AI development, proving that innovation isn’t always about spending more—it’s about working smarter.

DeepSeek’s rapid rise and innovative approach have disrupted the AI industry, challenging the status quo and opening new possibilities for AI development. By demonstrating that high-performance AI can be achieved with fewer resources, DeepSeek has paved the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future. As the industry evolves, its impact will likely inspire further innovation, fostering a competitive landscape that benefits everyone.

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