Deep Seek banned in Australia

Australia Bans DeepSeek on Government Devices Over Security Concerns

The Australian government has imposed an immediate ban on the use of DeepSeek, an AI application developed by a Chinese company, on all government devices. The decision, announced on February 4, 2025, stems from concerns over national security and data privacy. The Department of Home Affairs has instructed government agencies to remove DeepSeek from their systems as a precautionary measure.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that the app presents an unacceptable risk, prompting swift action to protect sensitive information. While the ban applies strictly to government-issued devices, private users remain unaffected. This move is part of a broader trend, as other nations, including Italy and Taiwan, have taken similar steps to restrict the use of DeepSeek over privacy concerns. Australia had previously banned TikTok from government devices in 2023 for comparable reasons.

DeepSeek has gained attention for its cost-effective AI model, R1, which has disrupted the global AI market, competing with major players like OpenAI, Google, and Meta. However, concerns have been raised regarding the app’s ability to censor politically sensitive topics, particularly related to China’s history. Some experts worry about potential misuse of the technology, leading businesses and organizations to approach its adoption with caution.

In response to emerging AI challenges, the Australian government is working on a regulatory framework to address security risks while ensuring technological advancements align with national interests. Federal Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic has urged caution regarding AI models developed in China, advising users to be mindful of potential security risks before engaging with such technologies.

This ban reflects Australia’s ongoing efforts to safeguard national cybersecurity and data integrity while navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape.