An AI program called DeepSeek quickly became well-known, surprising many with its inexpensive development costs in comparison to rivals like OpenAI.
Experts have expressed concern that DeepSeek may transmit user data directly to the Chinese government due to hidden coding in its programming.
According to reports, the AI's code connects to servers and businesses under Chinese government control, such as China Mobile.
Due to national security concerns, particularly its possible access to private data, China Mobile, which is owned by the Chinese government, was prohibited in the United States.
Users may unintentionally create accounts in China when they sign up with DeepSeek, exposing their data to Chinese state systems.
Cybersecurity specialist Ivan Tsarynny found encrypted code in DeepSeek that might transmit user information to CMPassport.com, a website connected to China Mobile.
It is believed that the code offers a "backdoor" to user data, giving the Chinese government illegal access.
The fact that DeepSeek's terms of service specify that it is governed by Chinese law raises more privacy concerns.
DeepSeek gathers a lot of user data, including IP addresses, conversation history, keystrokes, and app activity, which raises questions about what is delivered to China.
By creating a digital "fingerprint" of users, DeepSeek makes it possible to continuously monitor their online activity across several platforms.
Experts caution that DeepSeek might be being used by the Chinese government to secretly gather information about Americans and other users worldwide.
Because DeepSeek poses a threat to national security, U.S. lawmakers, notably Representative Josh Gottheimer, advocate for its removal from government computers.
DeepSeek's scandal is comparable to earlier worries about Chinese tech firms, such as TikTok, gathering and disclosing user data to the Chinese government.
Therefore, making informed choices while using the internet is essential.