Australia Takes Action: DeepSeek Banned on Government Devices for National Security

In a decisive move to safeguard its national security, the Australian government has enforced a comprehensive prohibition on the use of DeepSeek on all governmental devices. This ban, prompted by significant security worries, underlines Australia's stringent stance on protecting its technological infrastructure and national interests. The directive, issued by the Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs, mandates the immediate cessation of usage, installation, and, where applicable, the removal of DeepSeek products from all systems and devices operated by the Australian government.

The government's concerns stem from the perceived security threats posed by DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence startup, which has been deemed to present an 'unacceptable risk' to its technology landscape. This measure mirrors Australia's prior actions, such as the nationwide ban on the Chinese social media platform TikTok, instated two years prior, also due to security apprehensions.

It's important to note that this prohibition is specifically targeted at government entities, without extending to the personal devices of private citizens. This strategic decision underscores the Australian government's commitment to fortifying its digital defenses against potential external threats while delineating the scope of its security measures to avoid impacting the general populace's use of technology.

The ban on DeepSeek by the Australian government is a significant step in its ongoing efforts to ensure the security of its digital infrastructure. By taking such measures, Australia aims to preemptively address any vulnerabilities that could compromise its national security or interests, reflecting a broader global trend of heightened vigilance and proactive policies against perceived cybersecurity risks.