In a recent report, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) raised significant concerns about the Chinese AI application DeepSeek. The NIS accused DeepSeek of excessively collecting personal data and using it for training purposes, which has led to heightened security concerns.
Data Collection and Privacy Issues
According to the NIS, DeepSeek collects extensive user data, including keystroke patterns, device information, and chat records. This data is allegedly stored on servers in China, which raises significant privacy issues. Under Chinese law, the government can request access to this information, further exacerbating concerns about data security. The NIS has also reported that DeepSeek allows advertisers unlimited access to user data, which could lead to misuse of personal information.
Inconsistent Responses to Cultural Questions
One of DeepSeek’s more controversial aspects is its tendency to provide different answers to cultural questions based on the language used. For instance, when asked about the origin of Kimchi, a staple in Korean cuisine, DeepSeek’s responses varied. In Korean, the app stated that Kimchi is a Korean dish, while in Chinese, it claimed that it originated from China. This inconsistency has sparked outrage among South Korean users and has been seen as an attempt to manipulate cultural narratives.
Government Advisory and Public Reaction
In light of these findings, the NIS has advised government agencies to block access to DeepSeek. This advisory has led to a significant drop in the app’s usage among South Korean users. Several government ministries have already restricted access to the app, aligning with similar actions taken by Australia and Taiwan.
Broader Implications
The controversy surrounding DeepSeek highlights broader issues related to data privacy and the ethical use of AI. As AI applications become more integrated into daily life, it is crucial to ensure that these technologies are used responsibly and transparently. The NIS’s report serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding personal data and maintaining cultural integrity in the face of rapidly advancing technology.
In conclusion, the NIS’s findings on DeepSeek underscore the need for stringent data privacy measures and ethical guidelines in AI development. As the world continues to grapple with AI’s implications, it is essential to prioritize user privacy and cultural sensitivity to build trust and ensure the responsible use of technology.
