Democrats Push to Ban DeepSeek From All U.S. Government Devices Over Data Security Concerns Linked to Chinese Servers

There’s growing concern in the U.S. over DeepSeek, an AI chatbot that has quickly gained popularity, especially after reports surfaced suggesting the app might be collecting sensitive data.

Now, lawmakers are pushing for a ban on the app from all government-owned devices, citing fears that data could potentially be sent to servers linked to the Chinese government.

New Bill Aims to Ban DeepSeek from Federal Tech

Rep. Josh Gottheimer, a member of the House Intelligence Committee, has introduced a new bill that seeks to prohibit DeepSeek from being used on any U.S. government technology.

The proposed legislation would allow exceptions only for law enforcement agencies and activities related to national security.

The bill also seeks to ban any future products from High-Flyer, the Chinese hedge fund behind DeepSeek, from being installed on federal devices.

“I believe we need to ban DeepSeek from all government devices immediately,” Gottheimer said in an interview with ABC News.

“No one should be allowed to download it onto their device.”

This comes as cybersecurity researchers have raised concerns about the app’s code, which could be sending user login data to a Chinese state-owned telecom company that’s already been banned from operating in the U.S.

Tightening Security Measures

Gottheimer’s bill would require the Office of Management and Budget to set up guidelines for removing DeepSeek from federal devices within 60 days.

As concerns about cybersecurity and the potential misuse of personal information grow, this move reflects the increasing scrutiny of foreign-owned apps and their access to American data.

The situation is unfolding quickly, and it remains to be seen how this will impact the use of DeepSeek in government operations moving forward.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.