A German data protection official has filed a report against the Chinese AI app DeepSeek to Apple and Google, accusing the app of illegally transferring user information to China. Meike Kamp, who serves as Berlin’s commissioner for data protection and freedom of information, stated that DeepSeek has failed to offer “convincing evidence” that it complies with EU data protection laws. Kamp emphasized the extent of Chinese authorities’ access to personal data held by companies based in China, urging both tech giants to evaluate the situation and consider whether to remove the app from their platforms.
She noted that her office requested DeepSeek to adhere to EU regulations regarding the transfer of data outside the European Union or to withdraw its app from the market, but the company did not comply with these demands. Earlier this year, Italy also banned DeepSeek from its app stores due to similar data privacy concerns. Privacy advocate groups within the EU have pointed out crucial aspects of the app, highlighting that it is developed and operated in China.
According to its privacy policy, the information collected and stored by DeepSeek remains in the company’s home country. As of now, Apple and Google have not provided immediate comments regarding the situation. The scrutiny of DeepSeek reflects growing concerns about data security and privacy in the context of increasing global digital interactions, particularly with applications developed in countries with different regulatory standards.
The outcome of this investigation may set a significant precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.