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The DeepSeek AI application, a competitor to ChatGPT, is under scrutiny in Germany. The Berlin Commissioner for Data Protection is urging both Google and Apple to remove the app from their respective app stores due to concerns over user data being transferred to China.
GDPR Concerns Trigger Action
Meike Kamp, the Berlin Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information, issued a press release on June 27th outlining the request for removal. This action stems from DeepSeek’s alleged failure to comply with the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
According to Kamp, DeepSeek has not provided sufficient evidence that German users’ data is protected to EU standards within China. She highlighted the broad access rights that Chinese authorities possess over data held by Chinese companies and the lack of enforceable rights and legal remedies for DeepSeek users in China.
DeepSeek’s Response (or Lack Thereof)
The request for app store removal follows a prior request for DeepSeek to voluntarily address data protection concerns for German users. The commissioner states that DeepSeek failed to adequately respond or modify its practices.
What Happens Next?
The immediate fate of DeepSeek on the App Store and Google Play Store remains uncertain. Google and Apple are expected to review the commissioner’s request and determine their course of action. A potential removal might be limited to Germany or extended across the EU.
Despite this uncertainty, DeepSeek boasts over 50 million downloads on the Google Play Store alone (as of July 2025), indicating a significant user base that could be affected.
Privacy Implications for Users
The press release reveals that DeepSeek processes extensive user data, including text entries, chat histories, uploaded files, location information, device details, and network information. This comprehensive data collection raises privacy flags for users, regardless of their location.
This situation highlights a broader trend of data privacy concerns surrounding AI and social media applications. The commissioner’s efforts to enforce EU data protection standards serve as a reminder for users to carefully consider the privacy implications of the apps they use.
Key Takeaways:
- Germany is pushing for the removal of DeepSeek AI app due to GDPR violations.
- The concern centers around data transfer to China and lack of equivalent data protection.
- Google and Apple are reviewing the request; the impact on users is yet to be determined.