DeepSeek Suffers Data Leak

DeepSeek is making huge strides in the AI ​​market, with their R1 prototype quickly rocketing to the number one spot on both the App Store and Google Play Store. However, if you tried using DeepSeek this week, be warned that your chat data may have been leaked.

According to The Hacker News, DeepSeek exposed one of its online databases, leaving millions of logs at risk of unauthorized access. Although the company has since released a patch, the exposed data includes chat histories, encryption keys, backend information, and other important data.

As of this writing, DeepSeek says it is still investigating, although the vulnerability was fixed on January 29.

It is not yet clear whether any party exploited this vulnerability to access DeepSeek's database. However, security experts confirmed that this vulnerability could allow complete control of data and increased access within DeepSeek's network without authentication.

This raises major privacy and security concerns, especially since millions of users have flocked to DeepSeek in a short period of time.

One of the biggest points of controversy about DeepSeek is the amount of data it collects. In addition to logging email addresses, IP addresses, and chat histories, the platform also collects more disturbing information like keystroke patterns and typing rhythms.

Why would an AI application need to know not only what you type, but how you type it?

What's more, DeepSeek is a Chinese company, which means all user data is stored on servers in China. Under Chinese law, domestic companies are required to provide data to the government when requested, which is one of the reasons the US banned TikTok.

While there is no evidence that DeepSeek shared data with the Chinese government, the security breach presents a risky prospect for the fledgling AI company.

What should users do?

If you are using or thinking about trying DeepSeek, think carefully. Your data may not be as protected as you expect. Before using any AI platform, check their privacy policies and make sure you are not sharing sensitive information through these applications.

DeepSeek may be making waves in app stores, but this leak is sure to make many people rethink its safety.

Lesley Montoya

Update 02 February 2025