On February 7, 2025, Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) and Darin LaHood (R-IL) introduced the “No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act,” aiming to prohibit federal employees from using the Chinese AI application DeepSeek on government-issued devices. This bipartisan initiative reflects escalating concerns over potential national security threats posed by foreign-developed AI technologies.

🛡️National Security Concerns

DeepSeek, developed by a Chinese AI startup, has rapidly gained global attention for its advanced capabilities and cost-effectiveness. However, its Chinese origin has raised alarms about data security and potential surveillance. Lawmakers fear that user data collected by DeepSeek could be accessed by the Chinese government, posing significant risks to U.S. national security. Representative Gottheimer emphasized the urgency, stating, “We simply can’t risk the CCP infiltrating the devices of our government officials and jeopardizing our national security.”

🛡️Chances of Becoming Law

The bill’s bipartisan support enhances its prospects in Congress. Similar concerns have previously led to restrictions on other Chinese technologies, such as Huawei and TikTok. Given the heightened focus on cybersecurity and data privacy, the legislation is likely to gain traction. However, its passage will depend on broader legislative priorities and potential pushback from stakeholders advocating for technological engagement with China.

🛡️Commercial Espionage Risks

While the proposed legislation addresses DeepSeek’s use on government devices, it does not extend to the private sector. This omission leaves U.S. companies vulnerable to potential commercial espionage. DeepSeek’s data collection practices could expose sensitive corporate information, giving Chinese firms an unfair competitive advantage. Experts warn that without comprehensive regulations, the private sector remains at risk of intellectual property theft and unauthorized data access. Security researchers have identified vulnerabilities in DeepSeek’s encryption methods, further exacerbating these concerns.

🔒Conclusion

The introduction of the “No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act” signifies a proactive step toward safeguarding national security against potential threats from foreign AI applications. However, to fully protect U.S. interests, policymakers may need to consider extending such measures to the private sector, addressing the broader implications of commercial espionage and data security.

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