Based on the available information, there are several privacy and security concerns associated with using chat.deepseek.com:
Data Collection and Storage
DeepSeek collects extensive personal data from users, including[1][2]:
- Account information (email, phone number, date of birth)
- User inputs, including text and audio
- Chat histories
- Technical information (device model, operating system, IP address, keystroke patterns)
This data is stored on servers located in China[1][9], which raises concerns due to Chinese data regulations and potential government access.
Privacy Risks
Several privacy risks have been identified:
- Data is retained “for as long as necessary” and shared with third parties, including advertisers[1]
- User data could be used to “help match and [track] you outside of the service”[1]
- Chinese laws allow the government to request access to company-held data[6]
- DeepSeek’s privacy practices may conflict with GDPR regulations for EU users[6]
Security Concerns
Security researchers have identified vulnerabilities in DeepSeek’s AI model:
- The model can be easily “jailbroken” using known techniques, allowing it to produce harmful or dangerous content[16]
- DeepSeek’s transparent reasoning process may make it more susceptible to adversarial attacks[16]
Government Warnings
Australian Science Minister Ed Husic has urged caution when using DeepSeek, citing privacy and data management concerns[13][14]. Former U.S. President Donald Trump called it a “wake-up call” for American tech companies[1].
Recent Issues
DeepSeek recently experienced service disruptions and reported “large-scale malicious attacks” on its services, leading to temporary restrictions on new user registrations[15][20].
Conclusion
While DeepSeek offers impressive AI capabilities, its use comes with significant privacy and security risks. Users should carefully consider these concerns before using the service, especially for sensitive or personal information. Alternative AI platforms with more transparent data practices and stronger privacy protections may be safer options for users concerned about data security[6][11].
Citations:
[1] Be careful with DeepSeek, Australia says - so is it safe to use?
[2] https://kstp.com/kstp-news/top-news/experts-encourage-caution-around-privacy-security-as-chinese-tech-startup-deepseek-gains-popularity/
[3] DeepSeek reports campaign of ‘large-scale malicious attacks’ after becoming most downloaded app | Technology | EL PAÍS English
[4] Is DeepSeek safe to use? | Tom's Guide
[5] As China's DeepSeek AI Gets Hit By Large-Scale 'Cyberattack', Expert Flags Major Data Privacy Concerns
[6] Is DeepSeek Safe to Use For US & EU Citizens? All The Facts You Need to Know! | Fello AI
[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/SillyTavernAI/comments/1ia2dmq/deepseek_mini_review/
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NqpsCkd9Kn0
[9] https://www.reddit.com/r/privacy/comments/1ic40kp/deepseek_sends_your_data_overseas_and_possible/
[10] https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/27/technology/deepseek-ai-chatbot-first-impressions.html
[11] DeepSeek vs. ChatGPT: Should you use AI from China?
[12] https://chat.deepseek.com/downloads/DeepSeek%20Terms%20of%20Use.html
[13] Be careful with DeepSeek, Australia says - so is it safe to use?
[14] Australian minister flags privacy concerns over China's AI chatbot 'DeepSeek'
[15] DeepSeek’s AI app is restricting sign-ups due to ‘malicious attacks’ | The Verge
[16] DeepSeek R1 Exposed: Security Flaws in China’s AI Model • KELA Cyber Threat Intelligence
[17] DeepSeek Warning—New Chinese Security Threat Puts You At Risk
[18] Australia says be ‘very careful’ over DeepSeek, privacy - Taipei Times
[19] https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/new-atlanticist/what-deepseeks-breakthrough-says-and-doesnt-say-about-the-ai-race-with-china/
[20] DeepSeek restricts sign-ups amid ‘large-scale malicious attacks’
[21] DeepSeek AI claims services are facing 'large-scale malicious attacks' | CyberScoop
