Cybersecurity experts have raised concerns over DeepSeek, an AI chatbot that has been gaining popularity as a competitor to ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot. According to a report by NowSecure, a cybersecurity firm specializing in mobile application security, the DeepSeek app on iOS may be transmitting sensitive user data to servers owned by ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, over unencrypted channels. This security lapse exposes users to potential data interception by malicious actors.
NowSecure’s analysis reveals that the DeepSeek app for iPhones and iPads is sharing sensitive data without proper encryption. This means that anyone with access to network traffic, such as hackers or even unauthorized third parties, could easily read and exploit this information. Given the increasing scrutiny around data privacy and cybersecurity, this revelation has sparked concern among experts and users alike.
Unencrypted data transfers present serious security risks. Cybercriminals can intercept data in transit and use it for identity theft, financial fraud, or other malicious purposes. With AI chatbots like DeepSeek handling user queries that may include personal, financial, or confidential information, unprotected data transmission significantly heightens the risk of breaches.
The exposure of sensitive data is particularly troubling given ByteDance’s previous data privacy controversies. The company, which owns TikTok, has faced scrutiny from various governments over allegations of data harvesting and potential ties to the Chinese government. If DeepSeek is indeed sending unencrypted user data to ByteDance servers, this could further intensify concerns about the misuse of personal information.
For users, this means a greater risk of having their private conversations and data compromised. Those who use AI chatbots for work-related inquiries, financial planning, or personal discussions should be particularly cautious. Cybersecurity experts recommend avoiding the app until DeepSeek addresses these vulnerabilities or provides transparency on its data handling practices.
To protect their privacy, iOS users should consider the following steps:
- Avoid Using DeepSeek – Until security updates are released, using alternative AI chatbots with proven security measures may be safer.
- Monitor Network Traffic – Tech-savvy users can check their data traffic using security tools to detect unencrypted transmissions.
- Use a VPN – Encrypting all network traffic through a VPN can add an extra layer of security against data interception.
- Stay Updated – Following cybersecurity updates and app security patches can help users make informed decisions.
As AI-driven apps continue to evolve, security and privacy must remain top priorities. Until DeepSeek addresses these concerns, iOS users should exercise caution and consider more secure alternatives.
