SYDNEY, Australia – The Australian government has decided to ban the use of DeepSeek, a Chinese-made artificial intelligence (AI) tool, on all government devices because of security risks. The government made this decision after experts raised concerns that DeepSeek might threaten the country’s safety.
The Department of Home Affairs issued a directive requiring all government departments to stop using DeepSeek’s products, apps, and services. They also ordered that any existing DeepSeek software be removed from government devices right away. This action was taken to ensure the protection of Australia’s national security.
Tony Burke, the Minister for Home Affairs, explained that DeepSeek was a risk to government systems, and banning it was essential to protect the country. The ban only applies to government devices and does not affect personal devices of regular citizens.
DeepSeek made headlines recently for being cheaper and less complex than other AI models. This sparked concerns in global tech industries, especially as it uses less powerful computer chips and raised questions about Western investments in tech companies.
Australia is not the only country worried about DeepSeek. Italy and Taiwan have also banned the use of DeepSeek within their governments, and other countries are investigating the potential risks of this AI tool.
This is not the first time Australia has taken action over security concerns related to Chinese technology. Two years ago, Australia banned the popular TikTok app on government devices for similar reasons.
Australia’s strong stance on banning DeepSeek shows how countries are becoming more cautious about foreign tech companies and their potential security threats.
