Italian Watchdog Halts DeepSeek AI Chatbot Over Data Concerns

The Italian Data Protection Authority (Garante per la Protezione dei Dati Personali) has launched an investigation into the Chinese startup DeepSeek's AI chatbot and ordered the company to halt processing data from Italian users. The agency stated that the company's response to inquiries about its use of personal data was "completely insufficient," leading to the decision to take action.

The Garante has ordered the "urgent and immediate limitation" of the Hangzhou DeepSeek AI and Beijing DeepSeek AI from processing data of Italian users, which are Chinese companies that provide the DeepSeek chatbot service. The agency also noted that it has launched an investigation concurrently.

Previously, on January 29th, the DeepSeek app was no longer available in the Apple and Google app stores in Italy. The Italian Data Protection Authority's move comes as part of a broader effort to protect the privacy and data of Italian citizens, particularly in the context of AI and technology companies.

The investigation and restriction of DeepSeek's services in Italy highlight the growing scrutiny of AI chatbots and their use of personal data. As AI technology continues to advance, regulators around the world are increasingly focused on ensuring that companies comply with data protection laws and respect user privacy.

The Italian Data Protection Authority's actions serve as a reminder to companies operating in the AI and technology sectors to ensure they are in compliance with relevant data protection regulations and to be transparent about their use of personal data. Failure to do so may result in investigations, restrictions, and potential penalties.