Dutch data protection authority warns against Chinese chatbot DeepSeek
The Dutch Data Protection Authority (Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens, AP) has urged people to exercise caution when using the Chinese artificial intelligence chatbot DeepSeek. The agency advises users to consider whether they should input personal or sensitive data into the application.
“The AP warns due to serious concerns regarding DeepSeek’s privacy policy and how personal data appears to be handled,” said AP Chair Aleid Wolfsen.
DeepSeek, developed by a Chinese company, has drawn attention in the AI industry for reportedly performing at a level comparable to Western competitors despite being developed at a lower cost.
The AP announced it would launch a broader investigation into the transfer of personal data to China, citing concerns over DeepSeek.
“The transfer of European citizens’ personal data to non-EU countries is only permitted under strict privacy conditions,” the AP stated. “There must be sufficient safeguards to ensure people retain control over their data and understand how it is used. The question remains whether DeepSeek and other Chinese companies meet these requirements.”
The AP also cautioned against uploading information about others to DeepSeek. “If you upload data about other people, it ends up in China, possibly without their knowledge or consent. Such an unlawful transfer could make you liable,” the agency said.
