The title of this blog post is The Dark Side of DeepSeek's Blockbuster Chatbot Uncovering Links to China Mobile

The Dark Side of DeepSeek's Blockbuster Chatbot Uncovering Links to China Mobile

DeepSeek's chatbot has achieved unprecedented success, with millions of downloads across Apple and Google app stores. However, its popularity has also raised concerns among national security officials. A recent discovery has revealed a link between the app and China Mobile, a state-owned telecommunications company banned from operating in the United States.

Obfuscated Code Raises Questions

Security researchers at Feroot Security uncovered heavily obfuscated computer script on DeepSeek's website that, when deciphered, reveals connections to China Mobile. The code is part of the account creation and user login process for DeepSeek. This finding has sparked concerns about potential data breaches and national security risks.

Links to China Mobile Uncovered

The research revealed that the code points to China Mobile authentication and identity management computer systems. While no data was transferred during testing, experts warn that it is likely that some users' data is being sent to China Mobile. This raises significant implications, particularly considering the sensitive information users share with DeepSeek.

National Security Concerns Warranted

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has previously denied China Mobile authority to operate in the United States due to substantial national security concerns about links between the company and the Chinese state. In 2021, the Biden administration issued sanctions limiting the ability of Americans to invest in China Mobile after the Pentagon linked it to the Chinese military.

Expert Perspectives

Ivan Tsarynny, CEO of Feroot Security, emphasized that the connection is mindboggling and suggests that users are unknowingly allowing China to survey them. Stewart Baker, a Washington-based lawyer and consultant, warned that DeepSeek raises all the TikTok concerns plus it deals with highly sensitive personal and national security information.

The Risks of Generative AI

As generative AI systems continue to grow in popularity, experts warn about the data security risks involved. With users sharing sensitive information, there is a heightened risk of intelligence gathering for a geopolitical adversary. The implications are significant, as personal and proprietary information could be exposed.

Conclusion

DeepSeek's blockbuster chatbot has raised concerns about its connection to China Mobile, a state-owned telecommunications company banned from operating in the United States. While no data was transferred during testing, experts warn that it is likely that some users' data is being sent to China Mobile. As generative AI systems continue to gain popularity, prioritizing data security and national security concerns is essential.

Note

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.