In a move highlighting growing concerns over data security and foreign influence, New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced a statewide ban on the DeepSeek Artificial Intelligence application for all government-managed devices and networks. This decision raises important questions about the intersection of AI, national security, and data privacy within government operations.
DeepSeek AI is an artificial intelligence startup founded and owned by High-Flyer, a stock trading firm based in the People’s Republic of China. While the specific functionalities of the DeepSeek AI application aren't detailed in the announcement, the ban stems from significant apprehensions regarding its potential for:
Governor Hochul's decision underscores the state's commitment to proactively addressing cybersecurity threats and safeguarding sensitive information. The ban reflects the rising awareness of the potential risks associated with AI applications linked to foreign entities, particularly concerning data privacy.
In her statement, Governor Hochul emphasized that "[p]ublic safety is my top priority and we’re working aggressively to protect New Yorkers from foreign and domestic threats." This sentiment aligns with growing national concerns about the security implications of AI technologies developed and controlled by foreign governments.
New York State Chief Cyber Officer Colin Ahern reinforces this by adding, "Safeguarding New Yorker’s critical infrastructure, privacy, [and] freedom from censorship are central pillars of Governor Hochul’s security and resilience agenda."
This isn't the first time New York has taken action against potentially risky technologies. To further protect state data, New York previously banned TikTok from state devices in 2020.
This ban builds upon Governor Hochul's previous efforts to establish responsible AI usage within the state government. In 2024, she issued statewide guidance aimed at promoting innovation and efficiency through AI while prioritizing:
This comprehensive policy provides a framework for the ethical and secure implementation of AI in state agencies, ensuring that technology serves the public interest without compromising data security or individual rights.
New York's ban on DeepSeek AI could set a precedent for other states and governmental bodies grappling with similar concerns about AI security. As AI technologies become increasingly integrated into government operations, careful consideration of potential risks, data privacy, security, and ethical concerns is paramount.
Going forward, it will be crucial to develop clear guidelines and regulations governing the use of AI in government to balance innovation with the need to protect sensitive data and national security interests. This includes ongoing monitoring and assessment of AI applications to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities and risks.
To learn more about cybersecurity measures, please see Cybersecurity Best Practices. For more information on AI risks, check out Understanding AI Security Threats.
