Do You Still Use DeepSeek? For This Reason, Do not Use It Now
Because of its high-end features and open-source status, DeepSeek is the most widely used AI in the world. But it’s not without controversy, and this case in particular is particularly serious: it sends unencrypted data to the servers of ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company. This news puts the spotlight back on user privacy.
Managing our personal information has become more important as artificial intelligence develops and permeates our everyday lives. While DeepSeek is a tool with enormous potential, this fact has raised doubts around the world about its use. How much can we trust an AI that does not guarantee the privacy of our data?
According to recent research, DeepSeek has sent a large amount of unencrypted data to the TikTok environment. In other words, any information we share with AI can be easily intercepted. This puts the privacy of millions of users around the world who have used this tool at risk. The company has not yet made any statements on this issue, despite its seriousness.
In addition to the risk of sending unencrypted data, no one cares about the fact that the recipient is ByteDance. The company that owns TikTok has been embroiled in numerous government investigations for its irresponsible handling of our personal information. Its name has also been linked on numerous occasions to the Chinese government, led by Xi Jinping.
- How does it affect us as users?
In reality, our data is transmitted without encryption, making it relatively easy for any cybercriminal to intercept. This means that it can be used outside our control, for example, in advertising campaigns or even to impersonate us.
More broadly, this also raises a bigger issue: the lack of transparency that tech conglomerates have when it comes to handling our data. At first, everyone claims to be complying with current privacy laws, but the sad and harsh reality is hammered home with news like this.
- AI Alternatives to DeepSeek
Until everything is clear, using other services might be the best advice we can give you right now. If you are looking for AI tools for your daily life, we offer you the following alternatives:
- ChatGPT (although you'll already know this yourself)
- Gemini, owned by Google
- Copilot from Microsoft
These AI systems are subject to more protective legislation regarding security and processing of personal data. However, for added security, you can always protect any type of information with VPNs.