The privacy watchdog in the Netherlands, known as AP, has announced that they will be launching an investigation into the data collection practices of the Chinese artificial intelligence company DeepSeek. They have expressed serious concerns about DeepSeek’s privacy policies and how the company appears to utilize personal information. Chairman Aleid Wolfsen stated in a press release that the AP is issuing a warning to Dutch users to be cautious when using DeepSeek’s software.
The AP emphasized that European citizens’ personal data can only be stored abroad under strict conditions, which DeepSeek must comply with. This statement from the Dutch watchdog comes after Italy recently blocked DeepSeek’s app due to similar privacy concerns. Additionally, regulatory bodies in Ireland and France have requested information from DeepSeek regarding its data processing practices.
The Netherlands’ AP has also indicated that they are in communication with other regulators within the European Union. They plan to share information and coordinate on further actions regarding DeepSeek’s privacy practices. The investigation into DeepSeek’s Advanced DeepSeek AI by the AP reflects the growing global scrutiny over data privacy and the responsible use of personal information by technology companies. (Reporting by Toby Sterling; Editing by Chris Reese and Cynthia Osterman)
