Overview

• Seven Republican senators led by John Justed and Tedd Budd asked the Department of Commerce to evaluate DeepSeek’s data security risks in a formal letter.
• Lawmakers cited reports that DeepSeek’s R1 model may transmit sensitive user information to servers linked to the Chinese government.
• Multiple U.S. government departments have already banned DeepSeek on official devices over concerns about potential data leaks and harmful content generation.
• The senators urged prioritizing domestic AI development to ensure secure alternatives and reduce reliance on foreign models.
• Beijing has denied any direct ties to DeepSeek’s overseas operations and rejected accusations of cyber espionage.