DeepSeek App Removed in Italy: Data Privacy Probe Shakes AI Startup Regulatory Challenges in Europe

A rising tide of Chinese AI faces regulatory headwinds in Europe. DeepSeek, a promising Chinese AI startup, is experiencing difficulties in Italy. The country has removed its app from both Apple's App Store and Google Play. This action follows an official investigation by Garante, Italy's data protection authority, regarding the company's data handling practices. Italian Watchdog Demands Data Transparency Garante has issued a stern request to DeepSeek and associated entities. They demand comprehensive answers within 20 days. The investigation centers on: Data Collection Practices: What personal data does DeepSeek collect from users? Data Sources: Where does this data originate? Data Usage: How does DeepSeek intend to use user data? Data Location: Is user data stored on servers in China? Transparency: How does DeepSeek inform users, registered and unregistered, about data processing and web scraping? These questions reflect serious concerns about the legality and transparency of De…