Is DeepSeek AI Safe? Here’s Why You Should (or Shouldn’t) Be Worried

What is DeepSeek?

DeepSeek is an advanced large language model (LLM) developed by DeepSeek AI, a Chinese AI research lab. It offers a chatbot and open-source models, similar to OpenAI’s GPT series.

Why the Sudden Rise in Popularity?

A few key factors made DeepSeek gain attention fast:

1. Fast adoption by platforms – AI-driven services, including Perplexity AI, have started integrating DeepSeek into their search and chatbot functionalities.
2. Open-source models – Unlike some other proprietary LLMs, DeepSeek released open-source versions like DeepSeek Coder, DeepSeek V3, DeepSeek R1 etc. making it accessible to developers worldwide.
3. Powerful performance – DeepSeek competes with industry leaders in AI benchmarks, offering high accuracy and natural responses.
4. Cheaper than GPT-4 – Many AI companies and researchers prefer it because it’s free or more cost-effective compared to OpenAI’s models.

DeepSeek’s Privacy Red Flags: What You Need to Know

While DeepSeek looks like an exciting alternative to GPT-4 or Claude, some serious privacy concerns are lurking beneath the surface. Before using DeepSeek, it’s crucial to understand the privacy concerns surrounding its data storage, security, and censorship. Here are the key red flags to watch out for.

🔴 Red Flag#1: Data Storage in China:

DeepSeek’s privacy policy suggests that user interactions might be stored on servers inside China, which means they fall under Chinese data laws. Unlike US or EU regulations, China’s Cybersecurity Law allows authorities to access data stored within its borders.

➡️ Translation? If you’re using DeepSeek’s cloud-based version, there’s a possibility your data could be accessed by third parties. This issue has already sparked international scrutiny, with some countries raising concerns about national security risks.

🔴 Red Flag#2: Data Transmission and Security Risks

• Unencrypted Data Transfers – Security researchers discovered that DeepSeek’s iOS app disables App Transport Security (ATS), allowing unencrypted data transmission. This means user inputs could be intercepted and exposed to cyber threats.
• Exposed Databases – Cybersecurity firm Wiz.io found open DeepSeek databases containing sensitive information, including:
  • Chat histories
  • Backend data
  • API secrets

This suggests inadequate cybersecurity measures, making DeepSeek vulnerable to data breaches and unauthorized access.

🔴 Red Flag#3: Excessive Data Collection

Initial Reports have indicated that DeepSeek collects:

• User messages and prompts
• Device details
• Keystroke rhythms (potentially a biometric identifier)

This raised alarms in South Korea, where the National Intelligence Service (NIS) warned that DeepSeek may be tracking typing patterns, which could allow user identification. ^{(Source: Reuters)}

🔴 Red Flag#4: Censorship and Content Filtering

DeepSeek has been found to filter or censor responses when asked about topics sensitive to China, like:

This aligns with reports that DeepSeek enforces content moderation in line with China’s regulatory policies, raising concerns about bias and information control. ^{(Source: Wikipedia)}

🔴 Red Flag#5: Government Bans and National Security Concerns

Several governments and businesses are taking action against DeepSeek over security concerns.

• South Korea: The government blocked new downloads of DeepSeek, citing concerns over data being sent to China. ^{(Source: AP News)}
• Australia: Several major companies banned the use of DeepSeek after national security agencies raised red flags.

These bans highlight how governments and corporations view DeepSeek as a serious cybersecurity risk.

Now that we’ve highlighted DeepSeek’s red flags, it’s important to note that its technical capabilities still outshine many of its competitors.

Minimizing Privacy Risks: The Smart Way to Use DeepSeek AI

If you want to use DeepSeek without exposing sensitive data, here’s what you can do:

1. Avoid the Cloud Version

Instead of using DeepSeek’s online chatbot, download DeepSeek LLM (open-source) and run it locally. This ensures your data stays on your device and isn’t sent to external servers.

2. Self-Host DeepSeek

If you’re a developer or business, deploy DeepSeek on private infrastructure—just like Perplexity AI does. This way, you have full control over your data, with no third-party access.

3. Use VPN and Security Tools

To minimize tracking risks:

• Use a VPN to mask your location
• Install browser extensions that block trackers and fingerprinting
• Regularly clear cookies and disable JavaScript on untrusted websites

4. Regular Security Audits

If you’re using DeepSeek in a business setting, conduct security audits to:

• Detect vulnerabilities
• Ensure compliance with local regulations
• Monitor for unauthorized access

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy DeepSeek’s capabilities without compromising privacy. 

Final Thoughts

DeepSeek is undoubtedly one of the most powerful and affordable AI models available today, but its privacy risks are impossible to ignore. To use it safely:

• Avoid cloud-based versions – Use local or self-hosted models instead.
• Self-host whenever possible – Keep full control over your data.
• Stay aware of privacy concerns – Understand how your data is handled.

As AI continues to advance, striking a balance between innovation and security is more critical than ever.