In a decisive move to enhance user data protection, Germany’s Data Protection Commissioner, Mieke Kamp, has demanded that Apple and Google remove the Chinese AI application "DeepSeek" from their app stores within the country. This request comes amid growing concerns that the app violates European data protection laws and endangers users’ privacy and security.
Reasons for the Request
An intensive investigation revealed that DeepSeek collects and transfers users’ personal data illegally to servers located in China, which conflicts with the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). According to the Data Protection Commissioner’s assessment, the app fails to provide sufficient safeguards to protect this data from unauthorized access, especially given Chinese laws that permit authorities to access locally stored information.
Despite regulatory demands in May 2025 for the company behind the app to comply with European privacy standards or remove the app from the market, the company has not responded. This forced German authorities to take official action by requesting the immediate removal of the app.
Implications of the Ban
If Apple and Google comply with this request, the app could be banned not only in Germany but across the entire European Union, given the unified application of the GDPR. This move aligns with a global trend aimed at limiting the spread of applications that might pose threats to national security and user privacy.
Germany was preceded by other countries in taking similar measures: Italy banned the app from its stores, the Netherlands prohibited its use on government devices, and South Korea temporarily suspended its use.
Security Concerns
Current concerns go beyond privacy, as security reports suggest that DeepSeek may support Chinese military and intelligence operations. This heightens Western governments’ apprehension about cyber espionage risks and interference in sovereign affairs.
Corporate Responses
So far, Apple and Google have not issued official statements regarding the German request. However, both companies are expected to carefully consider the matter given the app’s size and reach, as well as the legal and regulatory implications for their operations in the European market.
Conclusion
Germany’s action reflects a growing global effort to protect user privacy and maintain cybersecurity amid the increasing role of AI and digital applications. The request to remove DeepSeek exemplifies the challenges governments and tech companies face in balancing innovation with safeguarding digital rights and national security.
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