US Lawmakers Aim to Ban CCP-Linked AI Software DeepSeek on Government Devices
In a move to safeguard national security and protect sensitive data, Congressmen Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) have introduced the "No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act." This bipartisan legislation aims to ban the use and download of DeepSeek, an AI software linked to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), on all US government devices.
Why the Concern Over DeepSeek?
The primary concern revolves around DeepSeek's connection to the CCP and its potential to gather and exploit user data. Here's a breakdown:
- CCP Affiliation: DeepSeek's code has direct links to the Chinese Communist Party, raising alarms about data privacy and security.
- Data Sharing with China Mobile: Reports indicate that DeepSeek has the capability to share user data with China Mobile, a company owned by the Chinese government and tied to the Chinese military.
- Sensitive Data Acquisition: Users are potentially sharing contracts, documents, and financial records with DeepSeek, which could be used to the CCP's advantage.
The "No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act"
This act addresses the potential threat by:
- Banning DeepSeek: Prohibiting the use and download of the DeepSeek AI software on government-issued devices.
- Safeguarding Sensitive Information: Preventing the CCP from accessing sensitive government and personal data.
- Closing Backdoor Operations: Addressing potential vulnerabilities that DeepSeek might exploit to gain access to user information.
This isn't the first time concerns about data security and Chinese-owned apps on government devices have been raised. The move mirrors previous concerns about TikTok which led to similar restrictions.
Statements from the Congressmen
Both Congressmen LaHood and Gottheimer have voiced strong concerns about the use of DeepSeek:
- Rep. LaHood: "The national security threat that DeepSeek...poses to the United States is alarming... It is critical that Congress safeguard Americans’ data and continue to ensure American leadership in AI."
- Rep. Gottheimer: "We simply can’t risk the CCP infiltrating the devices of our government officials and jeopardizing our national security... We’ve seen China’s playbook before with TikTok, and we cannot allow it to happen again."
Further Reading
For more information on this developing story, you can read the exclusive report from The Wall Street Journal.
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This proposed legislation reflects the growing concern in the United States regarding data security and the potential risks associated with foreign-owned technology, particularly those linked to adversarial governments. The "No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act" represents a proactive step towards protecting sensitive information and maintaining national security.
