A new bipartisan bill seeks to ban the AI chatbot DeepSeek from federal devices amid growing concerns over its potential ties to the Chinese government. Lawmakers, led by Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) and Rep. Darin LaHood (R-Ill.), have introduced the “No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act,” which would mandate its removal from all federal technologies.
This move follows reports suggesting the AI tool contains hidden code capable of transferring user data to servers controlled by China Mobile, a state-owned telecommunications firm previously barred from operating in the U.S.
The proposed legislation comes after the House’s Chief Administrative Officer warned staffers against using DeepSeek, citing cybersecurity threats. Multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, NASA, and the U.S. Navy, have already restricted or banned the app, mirroring actions taken by other governments, including Australia and Taiwan.
The bill would also prohibit future technologies developed by High-Flyer, the hedge fund backing DeepSeek, from use in federal settings.
Why It Matters: The push to ban DeepSeek underscores mounting tensions between the U.S. and China over artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data privacy. With AI becoming a cornerstone of both national security and economic competition, lawmakers are prioritizing safeguards against potential foreign influence. The bill’s success could set a precedent for further restrictions on Chinese technology, similar to the possible impending TikTok ban.
- Bipartisan Legislation Introduced: Reps. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) and Darin LaHood (R-Ill.) have introduced a bill to ban DeepSeek from federal devices due to national security concerns. The legislation would require the Office of Management and Budget to enforce its removal within 60 days, with exceptions for law enforcement and national security operations.
- Hidden Code Allegedly Links DeepSeek to Chinese State-Owned Firms: Cybersecurity firm Feroot found hidden coding in DeepSeek’s system capable of transmitting user data to servers controlled by China Mobile, a state-run telecom company banned in the U.S. This discovery has fueled fears about potential surveillance risks and data harvesting.
- Federal and State-Level Restrictions Already in Place: The Department of Defense, NASA, and the U.S. Navy have already blocked access to DeepSeek due to security concerns. Texas Governor Greg Abbott also banned the app on government-issued devices, citing risks to state infrastructure. Internationally, Australia, Taiwan, and South Korea have enacted similar bans.
- Comparison to the TikTok Ban: Gottheimer, a key figure behind the 2024 TikTok ban, is leading the charge against DeepSeek. The move draws parallels to previous U.S. actions restricting Chinese tech companies over concerns about espionage and foreign influence.
- DeepSeek’s Market Impact and Response: Despite rising security concerns, DeepSeek has gained popularity, even causing a stock market shake-up with its advanced AI capabilities. President Donald Trump acknowledged its rapid rise as a “wake-up call” for U.S. industries. However, DeepSeek has not responded to repeated requests for comment regarding the allegations.
Go Deeper -> Lawmakers Push to Ban DeepSeek App From U.S. Government Devices – WSJ
Lawmakers propose new legislation to ban DeepSeek from federal devices – ABC News
