DeepSeek faces ban from Apple, Google app stores in Germany

Germany’s data protection chief has requested that Apple and Google eliminate the Chinese AI startup DeepSeek from their app stores in the nation over data protection issues, mirroring a similar action taken in other regions.

Commissioner Meike Kamp stated on Friday that she filed the request due to DeepSeek’s unlawful transfer of users’ personal information to China. The two American technology giants are required to quickly assess the request and determine if they should restrict the app in Germany, she noted, although her office has not established a specific deadline. Google stated it had acknowledged the notice and was examining it.

DeepSeek did not provide a reply to a request for comment. Apple did not respond right away for comment.

As stated in its privacy policy, DeepSeek retains various types of personal information, including AI program requests and uploaded documents, on servers located in China. The commissioner stated she made the decision after requesting DeepSeek in May to comply with the conditions for non-EU data transfers or else willingly remove its app. DeepSeek failed to meet this request, she noted.

In January, DeepSeek electrified the tech industry by asserting it had created an AI model that could compete with those from American companies like OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, at a significantly reduced expense.

Nonetheless, it has faced criticism in the United States and Europe regarding its data security practices. Earlier this year, Italy prevented it from app stores due to insufficient information regarding its handling of personal data, while the Netherlands has prohibited it on government devices.

“We continue to monitor any national security threats to UK citizens and their data from all sources,” a spokesperson for Britain’s technology ministry said.

“If evidence of threats arises, we will not hesitate to take the appropriate steps to protect our national security.”

U.S. legislators intend to propose legislation that would prohibit U.S. executive agencies from utilizing any AI models created in China.