As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into daily life, the Tennessee Attorney General's Office has issued a warning about the potential dangers of using DeepSeek and other AI products linked to the Chinese Communist Party.
"DeepSeek creates real risk for both our country and our consumers," stated Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti. "The Tennessee state government has banned the use of DeepSeek on state phones and computers. Any private citizen thinking of using DeepSeek needs to be sure they understand the ramifications for their privacy and their security."
Recent research highlights several concerns associated with DeepSeek:
- **Data Privacy**: Information provided to DeepSeek is stored in China and can be accessed by Chinese intelligence agencies under Chinese law. The data lacks strong encryption protection, allowing broad use by the Chinese government.
- **Data Weaponization**: DeepSeek gathers sensitive user information, including keystrokes, behavior patterns, and IP addresses. This data can create detailed profiles on American users, potentially powering disinformation campaigns and scams. Such information could provide China's government with insights into U.S. vulnerabilities that might be exploited to attack the economy or influence elections.
- **Cybersecurity**: Security researchers have labeled DeepSeek as "high risk," indicating it may expose users to online threats more than other major AI products.
- **Censorship and Propaganda**: The platform reportedly promotes propaganda favorable to China's communist government while censoring unfavorable content.
Given these risks, the Tennessee Attorney General's Office advises consumers to carefully consider alternatives from non-communist countries when choosing AI products. Suspicious activity or concerns regarding DeepSeek should be reported to Tennessee’s Division of Consumer Affairs.