The Article Tells The Story of:
- Italy blocks Chinese AI App chatbot DeepSeek over unresolved privacy concerns.
- Regulators demand details on data collection, storage, and legal compliance.
- DeepSeek refuses to cooperate, arguing it is not subject to Italian laws.
- European regulators in Ireland and France also launch investigations.
Italy Blocks Chinese AI App DeepSeek Over Data Privacy Issues
Italy’s data protection authority, the Garante, has blocked the Chinese AI chatbot DeepSeek over concerns about data privacy. Officials stated that DeepSeek failed to provide adequate information on how it collects, processes, and stores user data. The decision follows an inquiry into whether personal data is sent to China and whether the chatbot complies with European privacy laws.
The watchdog requested specific details, including the sources of collected data, its intended use, and the legal basis for processing it. DeepSeek’s response was deemed insufficient, prompting the immediate ban. The regulator emphasized that protecting Italian users’ data was its priority.
Check Out Similar Article of DeepSeek’s AI Censorship: The 85% Blackout on Sensitive Topics Published on January 31, 2025 SquaredTech
DeepSeek’s Global Rise and Regulatory Challenges
DeepSeek has rapidly gained popularity, surpassing ChatGPT as the top-rated free AI app on Apple’s U.S. App Store. The Chinese startup claims its AI models match or exceed leading U.S. models at a lower cost, potentially disrupting the global AI landscape.
However, European authorities are increasing scrutiny. Regulators in Ireland and France have also questioned DeepSeek’s data practices. The company removed its AI assistant from Italian app stores after inquiries began but insisted it is not subject to Italian regulations. This stance only intensified concerns, leading to the ban.
Check Out Similar Article of DeepSeek’s Rise: How a Chinese AI Lab is Disrupting Global Tech Giants Published on January 30, 2025 SquaredTech
Future of AI Regulation in Europe
Italy’s Garante has taken a strong stance on AI regulation, previously banning ChatGPT in 2022 over privacy concerns. The DeepSeek case signals a growing trend of European regulators closely monitoring AI firms, particularly those based in China.
Despite the ban, some Italian users report that the chatbot remains functional on previously downloaded apps. The web version is also still accessible, raising questions about enforcement measures.
Authorities warn that continued non-compliance will keep DeepSeek blocked in Italy. As Europe tightens AI regulations, this case could set a precedent for future actions against AI companies that fail to meet strict data privacy standards.
Check Out Similar Article of OpenAI Chief Calls DeepSeek’s R1 Model a Game-Changer in AI Published on January 29, 2025 SquaredTech
Stay Updated: Artificial Intelligence
