Michael Wooldridge Warns Against Sharing Sensitive Data with DeepSeek
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, concerns about privacy and data security are becoming increasingly important. One platform that has recently sparked discussions is DeepSeek, an AI developed by a Chinese tech company. Michael Wooldridge, a well-known professor at the University of Oxford, has raised alarms about using DeepSeek, advising users to be cautious when sharing sensitive or personal information. This warning contributes to the growing debate about AI’s potential risks, particularly regarding data misuse.
Growing Concerns Over Data Privacy
DeepSeek has quickly garnered attention due to its impressive capabilities, performing similarly to established AI platforms like ChatGPT but at a significantly lower cost. The app has become one of the most downloaded AI tools in countries such as the UK and the US, with many people eager to explore its features. However, while its affordability and efficiency are appealing, experts like Wooldridge caution against sharing personal or sensitive information with the platform.
Wooldridge recently expressed that while asking about non-sensitive topics—such as sports or historical events—is relatively safe, users should avoid entering any private data.
He stated, “It’s fine to download it and ask it about the performance of Liverpool football club or chat about the history of the Roman Empire, but would I recommend putting anything sensitive, personal, or private on them? Absolutely not, because you don’t know where the data goes.”
This caution arises because DeepSeek, like many AI systems, utilizes user data to improve its algorithms. Unfortunately, all user data is stored on servers in China, raising concerns about its potential misuse or unauthorized access.
National Security Concerns
The UK government has also raised concerns about the national security implications of using DeepSeek. While the choice to use the platform is currently left up to the individual, the government is keeping a close eye on any potential data misuse or risks related to national security. Peter Kyle, the UK’s technology secretary, emphasized the importance of making informed decisions when interacting with AI systems like DeepSeek, especially given its ties to China.
“It operates under a Chinese model that may involve censorship and surveillance,” Kyle explained.
The concern is not only about privacy violations but also about the broader geopolitical risks associated with using Chinese-made technology. With global security and AI technology increasingly intertwined, there are real fears that AI platforms like DeepSeek could be used to spread disinformation or support surveillance efforts.
Risks of Misinformation and Bias
Another pressing issue with DeepSeek is its vulnerability to spreading misinformation. When users have asked about sensitive topics—like the Tiananmen Square protests or the status of Taiwan—the platform has been known to provide responses aligned with the official narratives of the Chinese government. Dame Wendy Hall, a member of the UN advisory body on AI, highlighted the risks of misinformation with generative AI platforms, stating, “The biggest problem with generative AI is misinformation. It depends on the data in a model, the bias in that data, and how it is used.”
As AI continues to play a larger role in our lives, it is essential for users to remain vigilant and understand the risks of sharing their personal data. Michael Wooldridge’s advice remains clear: avoid sharing anything sensitive on platforms like DeepSeek. While DeepSeek holds promise for future innovation, its potential impact on privacy, data security, and national security must not be underestimated.
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