Italy’s data protection authority, known as Garante, has taken decisive action to block access to the Chinese AI application DeepSeek. This move comes in response to concerns over user data privacy and security.
The Garante issued a statement on Thursday, highlighting that DeepSeek had failed to adequately respond to queries regarding the collection, storage, and notification practices concerning personal data. According to the authority, “Contrary to the authority’s findings, the companies declared that they do not operate in Italy, and that European legislation does not apply to them.” This statement underscores a significant jurisdictional dispute, as the app has been downloaded by millions worldwide in just a few days since its launch.
The investigation into DeepSeek and the companies behind the chatbot aims to clarify these data practices and ensure compliance with European data protection regulations. The rapid rise of DeepSeek’s chatbot has intensified competition in the AI sector, offering capabilities akin to those of leading American generative AI technologies but at a significantly lower cost, thereby shaking up the market dynamics.
This development raises broader questions about international data governance, the applicability of regional laws to global tech companies, and the protection of user data in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI technology. The Garante’s action reflects a growing trend among European regulators to enforce stringent data protection standards even as AI applications become more ubiquitous.
Key Points:
Italy Blocks Access: Italy’s data protection authority, Garante, has blocked access to the Chinese AI app DeepSeek due to concerns over user data privacy.
Investigation Initiated: An investigation into the companies behind DeepSeek has been announced to address how personal data is handled.
Non-Compliance with Queries: DeepSeek inadequately responded to Garante’s inquiries about data collection, storage, and user notification practices.
Jurisdictional Dispute: The companies claimed they do not operate in Italy and are not subject to European legislation, despite the app’s global download numbers.
Market Impact: DeepSeek’s chatbot has escalated competition in the AI sector, offering advanced features at a lower cost, challenging American AI leaders.
Data Privacy Concerns: The move highlights ongoing issues with international data governance and the enforcement of regional data protection laws on global tech entities.
