A statewide ban to prohibit the DeepSeek Artificial Intelligence application from being downloaded on ITS-managed government devices and networks was signed off on in Albany by Governor Kathy Hochul on Tuesday. DeepSeek is an AI start-up founded and owned by High-Flyer, a stock trading firm based in the People’s Republic of China.
According to Governor Kathy Hochul’s office, serious concerns have been raised concerning DeepSeek AI’s connection to foreign government surveillance and censorship, including how DeepSeek can be used to harvest user data and steal technology secrets.
“Public safety is my top priority and we’re working aggressively to protect New Yorkers from foreign and domestic threats,” Governor Hochul said. “New York will continue fighting to combat cyber threats, ensure the privacy and safety of our data, and safeguard against state-sponsored censorship.”
Tuesday’s announcement builds on 2024 statewide guidance for AI use in government, which established that through the responsible use of AI, State agencies can drive innovation, increase operational efficiencies, and better serve New Yorkers while protecting privacy, managing risk, and promoting accountability, safety, and equity.
That guidance — which included provisions on the proper use of AI, human oversight, fairness and equity, transparency, risk assessment, and management, privacy, and security — offered a comprehensive policy for the use of AI in State government.
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