According to a recent report by Reuters, citing informed sources, a US Department of Commerce agency has issued a directive to its officials, effectively banning the use of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model, on government devices over the past few weeks. This move is aimed at safeguarding the department’s internal information systems. An internal email, sent to officials, explicitly states that “to protect the security of the Department’s information systems, the use of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI [model], on government-furnished equipment (GFE) is strictly prohibited.” The email further emphasizes that officials are barred from downloading, accessing, or visiting any applications, programs, or websites related to DeepSeek.
The US Department of Commerce has yet to publicly comment on this development, leaving it unclear whether this ban will be extended to other government agencies. Previously, DeepSeek made headlines in January when it launched its affordable AI services, causing concern among investors that the US might lose its lead in AI technology. The introduction of DeepSeek’s services sent shockwaves through global stock markets, prompting worries about the potential consequences for the US tech industry.
In response to these concerns, Representatives Josh Gottheimer and Darin LaHood, members of the House Intelligence Committee, proposed legislation in February to ban the use of DeepSeek in government agencies. The lawmakers also sent a letter to state governors, urging them to ban the Chinese AI app. In their letter, dated March 3, they warned that “users of DeepSeek may not realize they are sending sensitive and confidential information, such as contracts, documents, and financial data, to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which can use this information as a powerful tool against the United States.”
Currently, several states, including Virginia, Texas, and New York, have announced bans on the use of DeepSeek in state agencies. Furthermore, attorneys general from 21 states have joined forces to push for Congress to pass legislation regulating the use of AI models like DeepSeek. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this ban will impact the broader tech landscape and the ongoing debate about the use of Chinese AI technology in the US.
Key Developments:
- The US Department of Commerce has banned the use of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model, on government devices.
- Several states have announced bans on the use of DeepSeek in state agencies.
- Lawmakers have proposed legislation to ban the use of DeepSeek in government agencies.
- Attorneys general from 21 states are pushing for Congress to pass legislation regulating the use of AI models like DeepSeek.
Implications and Next Steps:
The ban on DeepSeek raises important questions about the future of AI technology in the US and the potential risks associated with using Chinese AI models. As the US government continues to grapple with these issues, it is likely that we will see further developments in the coming weeks and months. One thing is clear: the debate about the use of Chinese AI technology in the US is far from over.
