US Navy bans use of DeepSeek AI over security concerns
What's the story
The US Navy has banned its personnel from using the artificial intelligence (AI) model created by Chinese AI start-up DeepSeek.
The decision was announced in an email to Navy staff, according to CNBC. The email stated: "We would like to bring to your attention a critical update regarding a new AI model called DeepSeek."
It further stressed that it is "imperative" that team members do not use this AI "for any work-related tasks or personal use."
Underlying issues
Ban stems from security and ethical concerns
The ban on DeepSeek's AI model comes amid increasing fears of possible security and ethical risks of using it.
The US Navy has taken the concerns seriously, advising personnel to steer clear of the AI model altogether.
The personnel are warned against downloading, installing, or using DeepSeek's AI under any circumstances.
This precautionary approach is in line with a Department of the Navy policy on AI use.
Market impact
DeepSeek's AI model gains popularity amid concerns
DeepSeek's AI Assistant app has become immensely popular since its launch earlier this month.
It quickly shot to the top of the free charts on the Apple's US App Store, becoming the most downloaded app.
The model's performance is said to be on par with its pricier competitors like OpenAI's ChatGPT, despite being much more affordable and energy efficient.
However, the rapid rise has raised security concerns in the US, especially amid ongoing geopolitical tensions with China.
Ongoing evaluation
DeepSeek's AI model faces scrutiny in Europe as well
The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed that the US National Security Council is reviewing the implications of DeepSeek's AI.
In Europe, DeepSeek is under the scanner of Euroconsumers, a coalition of European consumer groups.
Euroconsumers has joined hands with the Italian Data Protection Authority (DPA) to ask how DeepSeek handles personal data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).