Australia Bans DeepSeek on Government Devices Over Security Concerns
The Australian government has officially banned the use of DeepSeek on all government devices, citing national security risks associated with the Chinese artificial intelligence startup behind the technology.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Home Affairs directed all government agencies to block the installation of DeepSeek products, applications, and web services, and to remove any existing instances from government systems and devices.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke described DeepSeek as an “unacceptable risk” to government technology, emphasizing that the immediate ban was necessary to safeguard Australia’s national security and interests. However, the restriction does not apply to private citizens.
The decision comes amid growing global scrutiny of DeepSeek’s AI technology, which has disrupted the tech industry with its cost-efficient AI model. The model, which requires less-advanced semiconductor chips, has raised concerns in the West about its potential impact on chipmakers and data centers.
Australia’s move follows similar actions in Italy and Taiwan, where government agencies have also barred the use of DeepSeek’s AI services. Other countries in Europe and beyond are reportedly considering restrictions as well.
This ban marks another step in Australia’s tightening security measures regarding Chinese technology. In 2023, the government prohibited TikTok from being used on government devices over similar cybersecurity concerns.
