As is often the case with advanced technologies emerging from China, DeepSeek’s developments quickly attracted criticism beyond its borders. Competing American company OpenAI has suggested banning the use of language models in the United States, not only those developed by DeepSeek but also by any companies that benefit from the support of China or other nations considered unfriendly.
This proposal, as noted by TechCrunch, was submitted by OpenAI’s management to US authorities during discussions of the “AI Action Plan.” This plan is intended to become a national initiative in the AI sphere. OpenAI argues that DeepSeek’s language models pose a security risk to the US because they comply with Chinese government requirements regarding the processing of user data. Additionally, OpenAI calls for a ban on all language models originating from countries deemed unfriendly to the United States. According to them, such a move would protect data privacy and eliminate potential security threats, including intellectual property theft.
Concerns Over Data Privacy and Security
It remains unclear which specific elements of DeepSeek’s developments may be subject to a ban in the US. The Chinese developer emphasizes its commitment to an open-source strategy, but this does not automatically imply that third parties using their models are at risk regarding data privacy. Corporate users who implement these models still have full control and the ability to safeguard sensitive information.
The only conditional risk factor, as some point out, lies in making calls to DeepSeek’s API, where requests are processed on the company’s infrastructure. Yet, even this can be managed by users through careful handling of their data.
Previously, OpenAI accused DeepSeek of employing its language models to train Chinese models using distillation techniques, reminds NIX Solutions. Now, more conventional arguments are being brought forward, focusing on information security and national interests of the United States. This approach signals an ongoing rivalry in the AI field, where concerns about data handling and technological sovereignty continue to play a key role.
We’ll keep you updated on further developments and whether any formal restrictions will be introduced regarding DeepSeek’s presence in the US market.