Source URL: https://yro.slashdot.org/story/25/02/05/2019200/researchers-link-deepseek-to-chinese-telecom-banned-in-us?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed
Source: Slashdot
Title: Researchers Link DeepSeek To Chinese Telecom Banned In US
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AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: The text outlines security concerns regarding the Chinese AI company DeepSeek, whose chatbot’s web code potentially connects to China Mobile, a company with known ties to the Chinese military. Researchers found that login processes may inadvertently expose user information, raising significant privacy and security implications for users, particularly in the U.S.
Detailed Description: The news reflects serious privacy and security issues tied to the use of DeepSeek’s chatbot application. The article highlights the risks associated with using AI technologies developed by foreign entities, especially when they are potentially linked to state-owned enterprises. Here are the major points of interest:
* **Connection to China Mobile**:
– The discovery by Canadian cybersecurity company Feroot Security indicates that DeepSeek’s web platform could be funneling user data to China Mobile.
– This is problematic given that China Mobile has been barred from U.S. operations due to alleged ties with the Chinese military.
* **Privacy Ownership and Access**:
– DeepSeek’s privacy policy mentions that user data is stored on servers in the People’s Republic of China, raising concerns about who ultimately controls personal information.
– The potential for user credentials and login information to leak to a company with a dubious reputation regarding user privacy amplifies these concerns.
* **Insufficient User Protection**:
– Although the researchers did not detect active data transfer during their tests, they could not conclusively rule out the possibility.
– The scope of the investigation did not extend to the mobile app, which remains widely downloaded, and which could pose additional risks.
* **Impact on U.S. Regulatory Environment**:
– The U.S. Federal Communications Commission and subsequent government actions against China Mobile are cited as context for these findings.
– The situation highlights the ongoing tension between global technology companies and national security interests in the U.S.
* **Ethical and Operational Risks**:
– The commentary from Feroot’s CEO suggests that these findings may not be accidental and raises concerns about unintentional data breaches.
– The article closes with a call to action regarding the awareness of risks associated with using foreign-developed technology, especially in sensitive contexts.
This analysis reveals critical considerations for professionals engaged in security, compliance, and infrastructure governance, particularly regarding the risks of utilizing AI applications from entities outside their jurisdiction. The situation underscores the importance of scrutinizing data handling practices and potential connections to foreign governments or organizations, especially in light of recent geopolitical tensions.