Germany’s data protection commissioner has formally requested that Apple and Google remove the Chinese artificial intelligence app DeepSeek from their app stores in the country, citing serious concerns about data privacy violations.

In a statement released on Friday, Commissioner Meike Kamp said the Chinese AI startup was found to be illegally transferring users’ personal data to China, a move that contravenes European Union data protection laws. She stated that both US tech companies must now review the request and determine whether to block the app in Germany, although no specific deadline has been set.

Google confirmed receipt of the notice and said it is reviewing the matter. Apple has yet to respond, and DeepSeek did not issue a comment.

DeepSeek’s own privacy policy confirms that it stores a range of personal user data—including requests made to its AI system and uploaded files—on servers located in China. Kamp said the company failed to demonstrate that it could safeguard German users’ data to a standard equivalent to that required under EU regulations.

“DeepSeek has not been able to provide my agency with convincing evidence that German users’ data is protected in China to a level equivalent to that in the European Union,” she said. “Chinese authorities have far-reaching access rights to personal data within the sphere of influence of Chinese companies.”

The commissioner explained that her office had initially asked DeepSeek in May to comply with EU data transfer standards or voluntarily withdraw its app. After failing to meet either condition, the current action was taken.

DeepSeek gained global attention in January after announcing that it had developed an AI model capable of rivaling those from leading US firms like OpenAI, and at a significantly lower cost. But its rise has sparked growing scrutiny over data privacy concerns in multiple countries.

Earlier this year, Italy banned DeepSeek from its app stores, citing insufficient transparency around how it handles personal information. The Netherlands has prohibited the app’s use on government devices, and Belgium has issued guidance discouraging officials from using it pending further analysis. In Spain, consumer group OCU urged the country’s data authority to investigate potential risks, though no official ban has been implemented.

Meanwhile, the UK has taken a more cautious approach. “The use of DeepSeek remains a personal choice for members of the public,” a spokesperson for the country’s technology ministry said, adding, “We continue to monitor any national security threats to UK citizens and their data from all sources.”

Faridah Abdulkadiri

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