Due to security concerns over Chinese-backed apps
In a major move amid concerns about China-backed technology and security concerns, Texas has become the first US state to ban the use of Chinese-owned artificial intelligence platform DeepSeek and social media app RedNote on government devices. The move comes in response to concerns about potential data security risks and foreign interference through the apps linked to China.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced that DeepSeek and RedNote will no longer be allowed on state government devices. He said this is a security concern due to the potential access to data collected by the Chinese government from the apps. The move is intended to protect Texas' information infrastructure from foreign interference and has raised concerns about the technology in other US states.
DeepSeek is a new AI platform that has gained significant popularity in recent months. It has emerged as a strong competitor to OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Although it was built at a low cost, around $5.6 million, DeepSeek has quickly become known in the global tech market, causing the share prices of major tech companies to fall. Experts believe that DeepSeek’s rise could usher in a new era in China’s artificial intelligence field.
RedNote, which is known as an alternative to TikTok, has been included in the ban. The app is owned by a Chinese company, and has raised concerns that it could pose a threat to personal data protection. Several US states have already taken steps to ban TikTok, and now Texas has imposed a ban on these Chinese-backed apps.
This is not only a reflection of greater caution about technology security within the United States, but also part of an ongoing global competition over technology and security between China and the United States. China is making rapid progress in its artificial intelligence technology, which is challenging the US technology sector.
This move by Texas could be a signal to other states around the world, especially if they want to protect their data security. This move has the potential to establish stronger controls over technology and data protection, which could also be an example for other countries around the world in the future.
It now remains to be seen whether other US states will follow suit, and how governments will take more stringent measures to limit the influence of Chinese apps in the global tech sector.
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