Berlin data protection officer calls for a ban on DeepSeek apps!

Berlin data protection officer calls for a ban on DeepSeek apps!

The excitement surrounding the AI ​​application DeepSeek is currently increasing in Germany and worldwide. The Berlin data protection officer Meike Kamp is demanding loudly PZ News the removal of the app from the Apple and Google app stores. The reason for this are serious violations of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

DeepSeek is in the crosshairs of regulators. The Berlin authorities assessed the app as having “illegal content” and sent a report to the major tech companies. They now have to check whether they comply with the request. Data protection advocates are particularly concerned that the application transmits users' personal data to China without providing sufficient security measures. Chinese authorities have extensive access rights to such data, further increasing the risks for users.

International testing procedures and protests

On March 17, 2025, seven German data protection authorities launched investigations against DeepSeek to check compliance with the GDPR. Particularly critical is the fact that the app does not offer an opt-out option for users, which opens up potential access to the authorities. The Federal Commissioner for Data Protection also sees a major risk in storing user data on servers in China. Loud Privacy ticker International authorities, including in South Korea, Italy, Taiwan and Australia, have taken action against the app to investigate possible violations and ensure user protection.

While there is no nationwide ban in the United States, some federal agencies such as NASA and the Department of Defense do not use DeepSeek. Texas also has restrictions on government devices. The trend signals that more and more countries are becoming vigilant about its use.

Data protection and security risks

The data protection authorities warn not only about the possibility that personal data can be read, but also about possible security gaps and malware. The Federal Office for Information Security also offers deeper insights into the risk, which alarmingly points out the danger of keyboard entries that could be read by third parties.

In addition, DeepSeek has not yet named a representative within the EU, which violates the requirements of the GDPR. According to Article 27 Paragraph 1, companies outside the EU are obliged to designate a contact person in the Union. This poses an increased risk for users in Europe because China does not have an adequacy decision in accordance with Article 45 GDPR. This means that the protection of personal data when transferred to China does not meet European standards.

Alternatives and recommendations

The German data protection authorities recommend refraining from using such applications and instead considering transparent, European alternatives. Companies should use AI solutions such as Mistral AI or Aleph Alpha. Critics warn that the global AI market, despite its significant progress, urgently needs regulatory and ethical frameworks to minimize data protection risks.

In summary, concerns about DeepSeek are not only local, but also international, and it is high time to take the necessary steps to ensure the protection of users in the digital space. Experts from various countries have made clear statements - the pressure is growing, and the handling of data and AI will continue to be on the global agenda in the future.