DeepSeek removed from South Korea app stores pending privacy review

Source: Hindustan Times Tech | Author: [Not specified] | Read the full article

DeepSeek, a Chinese AI application, has been taken down from app stores in South Korea due to concerns regarding its data collection practices. The South Korean authorities are currently reviewing whether the app complies with local privacy laws. This action follows similar investigations in other countries, including Italy and Australia, indicating a growing international focus on the app's data handling.

The app's removal was initiated by Seoul's Personal Information Protection Commission, which stated that DeepSeek would remain unavailable for download until it addresses its data collection methods. The commission noted that the company had not adequately considered local privacy regulations, and it may take a significant amount of time for the app to align with these laws. Users who already have the app can still access it, but they are advised to be cautious and avoid entering personal information.

In response to the app's removal, the Chinese government has emphasized that it does not require companies to collect or store data illegally. Meanwhile, other countries, including the United States, are also taking steps to restrict the app's use on government devices due to security concerns.

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