Malcolm Byrne TD has warned that Irish citizens and businesses need to be careful if they decide to use Deepseek, the new Chinese Artificial Intelligence chatbot. He has voiced particular concerns that any data shared with the app will be stored on servers based in China.
He pointed out,
“If our data is stored in Ireland or other parts of the European Union, there are strong safeguards in place as to how that data will be used. If data is stored in China, those safeguards does not exist. The Chinese Communist Party can use its National Security Law to access this data. Deepseek’s privacy policy provides that any personal information gathered through using its product may be stored on servers based in China.”
He added,
“Artificial Intelligence is transforming so many aspects of all our lives, much of it in positive ways. However, the potential for misuse of the technology and of data collected is huge. Debates on how we ethically use AI will be key considerations for the new Government.”
The Wicklow-Wexford Deputy stated that it is important that the Government has a clear strategy on AI use and is represented at a senior level at the forthcoming Global AI Summit in Paris hosted by President Macron. He reiterated his call for a special Oireachtas Committee on Artificial Intelligence and for a programme of education on AI and Technology to be rolled out across the public service as well as for TDs and Senators.
ENDS