Berlin Data Protection Officer Takes Action Against Deep AI App Over GDPR Violations
Berlin – In a significant move aimed at safeguarding user privacy, the Berlin representative for data protection and freedom of information has sounded the alarm on the AI application Deep. The app, developed by the Chinese company Hangzhou Deep AI Co. Ltd., is now under scrutiny for alleged massive data protection violations involving unauthorized data transmission to China.
Unauthorized Data Transfer to China
According to data protection authorities, the Deep app processes extensive personal information, including text inputs, chat history, uploaded files, and location and device data. These data points are transmitted to Chinese servers, raising serious concerns under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
The GDPR requires such data transfers to be adequately safeguarded by additional protective measures. However, the Berlin data protection officer has stated that sufficient guarantees are not in place, particularly given the lack of reciprocity with the EU in terms of data protection standards and the far-reaching access rights of Chinese authorities.
Google and Apple Under Pressure to Block App
The authority invoked Article 16 of the Digital Services Act (DSA) to inform Apple and Google of the legal violations. Following the directive, the tech giants face a prompt decision on whether to block the app in Germany. This step came after months of failed negotiations with the app’s developers and in coordination with multiple federal states and the Federal Network Agency.
Background on Data Protection in the EU
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has been a cornerstone of data protection in the EU since 2018. It mandates robust safeguards for the processing and transfer of personal data, reflecting the EU’s stringent commitment to privacy rights. Companies handling EU user data must adhere to these regulations, which include stringent consent requirements and enforcement mechanisms.
Deep’s Impact on AI Technology
Deep gained popularity within the tech community for its capability to deliver quick, versatile answers. Comparable to established AI chat systems like ChatGPT, Deep was touted as a valuable tool for AI-supported research and text generation. However, its future in the European market has become uncertain due to the recent developments.
This situation underscores the critical assessment within regulatory frameworks over advancements in AI technology. As AI continues to evolve, ensuring robust data protection standards remains paramount for preventing misuse of personal information.
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