DeepSeek User Information Sent Abroad Without Consent
South Korea’s data protection watchdog has taken issue with Chinese artificial intelligence company DeepSeek. The agency claims DeepSeek transferred user data and prompt content overseas without user consent. This happened when the app was available for download in South Korea earlier this year.
According to the Personal Information Protection Commission, the AI startup failed to gain proper approval from users before sharing their data. This information was reportedly sent to companies based in China and the US during the app’s launch phase in January.
App Suspended Following Privacy Concerns
In February, South Korea’s data agency moved to block new downloads of the DeepSeek app. The agency stated that DeepSeek had admitted to overlooking key rules related to the protection of personal data. This action raised alarms about how emerging AI technologies handle sensitive user information.
On Thursday, the watchdog added that DeepSeek had sent user prompts, device data, network details, and app information to Beijing Volcano Engine Technology Co. Ltd. The transfer of such detailed content sparked further scrutiny.
DeepSeek Promises to Take Action
The AI agency later informed South Korean authorities that this data sharing aimed to enhance user experience. However, the company claimed to have stopped sending prompt content from April 10.
In response to these developments, the data protection authority has recommended corrective action. The AI company has been urged to delete all prompt content shared with Volcano Engine. The company must also establish a lawful basis for any future transfers of personal data across borders.
with inputs from Reuters