The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has ordered federal civilian agencies to remove artificial intelligence technology developed by China’s DeepSeek from government computer systems, citing national security concerns involving sensitive data and potential cybersecurity risks.
The directive, made public Monday and published in the Federal Register on Tuesday, prohibits federal civilian agencies from purchasing DeepSeek products and services. The restrictions also extend to affiliated companies and third-party software developed using DeepSeek technology, significantly broadening the scope beyond the company’s own AI chatbot.
Federal officials have warned that DeepSeek technology could expose sensitive government information to Chinese authorities or introduce security vulnerabilities into federal networks. The restrictions follow a review by the Federal Acquisition Security Council under a 2018 law designed to protect federal technology purchases and information systems from supply-chain threats.
DeepSeek emerged as a major competitor in the global artificial intelligence industry after introducing powerful, low-cost AI models that challenged established American technology companies. Its technology has attracted developers and businesses worldwide, making the federal restrictions particularly consequential for software providers that incorporate DeepSeek models into their products.
The order applies to federal civilian government systems and procurement, not a nationwide ban on DeepSeek for American consumers or private businesses. The decision adds another layer to the growing technological rivalry between the United States and China, as federal agencies increase scrutiny of foreign-developed AI tools and the security of information processed through them.
