Germany’s Federal Commissioner for Data Protection, Meike Kamp, has formally requested Apple and Google to remove the Chinese AI application DeepSeek from their respective app stores in the country, citing critical concerns over data protection violations.
At the heart of the issue is DeepSeek’s alleged illegal transfer of user data to servers in China, which, according to Kamp, does not meet the stringent data privacy standards set by the European Union.
What’s the Issue?
DeepSeek, a fast-growing Chinese AI firm claiming to rival leading platforms like ChatGPT, has recently come under global scrutiny. Its privacy policy acknowledges that user queries and uploaded files are stored on infrastructure based in China—raising alarm bells among regulators in Europe.
Commissioner Kamp stated:
“DeepSeek has not provided convincing evidence that user data originating in Germany is adequately protected under Chinese law to meet EU standards.”
She emphasized that Chinese regulatory frameworks offer authorities broad access to user data, making it difficult to ensure GDPR-compliant safeguards.
The Bigger Picture
This move by Germany follows similar steps taken by:
- Italy, which blocked DeepSeek from local app stores over lack of transparency on personal data usage.
- The Netherlands, which prohibited its use on government-issued devices.
- Belgium, which issued cautionary advice to officials while it investigates further.
Spain’s consumer rights group OCU has also petitioned the national data authority to launch an investigation, though no regulatory action has been finalized.
Meanwhile, the UK has taken a more measured tone, stating that use of DeepSeek remains a personal choice, but affirmed it is monitoring potential national security implications.
What Happens Next?
Google has confirmed receipt of Germany’s request and is reviewing the matter. Apple has yet to issue a public response. Kamp’s office has not set a deadline, but urged the platforms to act promptly.
This case once again highlights the growing intersection of AI, international law, and digital sovereignty. With the rise of globally distributed AI infrastructure, regulators are stepping in to assert control over how and where citizen data is handled—especially when apps are developed outside the EU’s jurisdiction.
365247 Insight:
This story goes beyond just one app. It marks another chapter in the broader standoff between Western data privacy standards and Chinese digital infrastructure. For global tech giants, the takeaway is clear: transparency, compliance, and geographic accountability are now non-negotiables in the age of AI.
