DeepSeek AI App Blocked on Apple and Google App Stores in Italy Amid Data Privacy Concerns
- tech360.tv
- Jan 31, 2025
- 2 min read
The Chinese artificial intelligence app DeepSeek faced a setback as it was inaccessible on Wednesday in Apple and Google app stores in Italy. This action followed a request from the country's data protection authority for information regarding the app's handling of personal data. Additionally, Ireland's Data Protection Commission has also sought details from DeepSeek concerning data processing related to Irish users.
DeepSeek recently introduced a free AI assistant that claims to use minimal data compared to existing services at a lower cost. The app quickly gained popularity, surpassing its U.S. competitor ChatGPT in downloads on Apple's App Store by Monday, causing unease among tech investors.
Pasquale Stanzione, the head of the Italian data regulator, expressed uncertainty about the app's removal, stating, "The news of the withdrawal of the app was only a few hours ago, I cannot say whether it is due to us or not." Stanzione highlighted that an in-depth investigation would be conducted to ensure compliance with GDPR regulations, the European Union's data protection legislation.
The Italian regulator, known as the Garante, demanded information on the data collection practices of DeepSeek, including the types of data collected, sources, purposes, legal basis, and storage location, particularly questioning if data is stored in China. DeepSeek and its associated companies have been given a 20-day deadline to provide responses.
Stanzione also emphasised the need for assurances regarding the protection of underage users, prevention of bias, and avoidance of electoral interference. While the app was unavailable for new downloads in Italy, existing Italian users could still access DeepSeek. The app remained functional in other European Union countries and Britain.
In Germany, the government is closely monitoring AI applications ahead of the national election on Feb. 23 to prevent potential interference. An interior ministry spokesperson highlighted concerns about AI applications and their impact on public opinion formation, especially in the context of upcoming elections.
Italy's Garante has a history of actively overseeing AI usage, having previously temporarily banned the Microsoft-backed ChatGPT due to suspected violations of EU privacy regulations. On the other hand, Ireland's Data Protection Commission serves as the primary EU regulator for many leading U.S. internet companies, although DeepSeek has not designated Ireland as its EU headquarters.
DeepSeek AI app blocked on Apple and Google app stores in Italy due to data privacy concerns
Italian and Irish data protection authorities request information on DeepSeek's data processing practices
DeepSeek's AI assistant gains popularity but faces scrutiny over GDPR compliance and safeguarding of users
Source: REUTERS
