Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs has prohibited government agencies from using DeepSeek's artificial intelligence technology, citing national security concerns over the Chinese-made AI service.
The ban extends to employees of government agencies, public schools, and state-owned enterprises across Taiwan. Officials expressed worries about potential "cross-border transmission and information leakage" when using DeepSeek's technology.
"DeepSeek AI service is a Chinese product," the Ministry stated in their announcement. "Its operation involves multiple information security concerns."
The decision aligns with growing global scrutiny of DeepSeek. According to the company's privacy policy, all user data is stored in China, where local laws require organizations to share information with intelligence officials upon request.
Taiwan's Premier Cho Jung-tai emphasized the protective nature of the ban during a cabinet meeting. "DeepSeek was banned from use in all government agencies to ensure the country's information security," he said.
This move follows similar restrictions by other governments and organizations worldwide. The U.S. Congress, Pentagon, NASA, and various state governments have already limited or prohibited the use of DeepSeek's AI technology on official devices and networks.
The ban reflects Taiwan's ongoing concerns about technological influence from mainland China, as Beijing continues to assert sovereignty claims over the democratically governed island nation.
Several other countries, including South Korea, France, Italy, and Ireland, are currently evaluating potential security risks associated with DeepSeek's services.