DeepSeek, the Chinese artificial intelligence platform that has gained global attention, has been removed from Apple and Google app stores in Italy following a request from the country’s data protection authority. The Italian watchdog, Garante, is investigating whether DeepSeek complies with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) rules regarding the collection and storage of personal data.
Pasquale Stanzione, head of the Italian data regulator, confirmed the app’s removal but stated, “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.” However, he assured that his office would launch an in-depth investigation into DeepSeek’s data practices.
Garante has demanded that DeepSeek and its affiliated companies provide information within 20 days on what personal data is collected, from which sources, for what purposes, on what legal basis, and whether the data is stored in China.
Italian users attempting to download DeepSeek encountered messages stating that the app was “currently not available” on Apple’s App Store and “not supported” on Google Play. However, reports indicate that users who had previously downloaded the app could still access its services.
DeepSeek is also under scrutiny in other European countries. Ireland’s Data Protection Commission has requested information about the AI’s data processing practices regarding Irish users. Meanwhile, in Germany, authorities are closely monitoring AI applications for potential manipulation and interference ahead of the February 23 Bundestag elections.
A German government spokesperson acknowledged concerns about AI’s impact on public opinion, stating, “The security authorities are concerned with AI applications and possible manipulation, especially now in view of the Bundestag elections.”
The investigation into DeepSeek marks another instance of European regulators tightening scrutiny over AI applications, particularly those linked to China, due to concerns over data security and privacy. It remains to be seen how DeepSeek will respond and whether other European countries will follow Italy’s lead in restricting the app.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
