Berlin – Germany’s top data regulator has called on Apple and Google to consider banning the Chinese AI app DeepSeek, citing unlawful transfer of German user data to China in breach of the European Union’s data protection laws.
Meike Kamp, Berlin’s data protection commissioner, issued a statement Friday declaring DeepSeek’s actions “unlawful” under the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). She warned that the app poses a significant risk as Chinese authorities may gain access to sensitive user information.
“DeepSeek has not been able to convincingly demonstrate that the data of German users is protected in China at a level equivalent to that of the European Union,” Kamp said.
Potential for an EU-Wide Ban
Legal experts suggest that Germany’s move could lead to a wider European Union ban if other national regulators follow suit.
“The implications for DeepSeek could be stark,” said Matt Holman, AI and data lawyer at Cripps. “Access to EU markets may be curtailed if Google and Apple remove the app from their stores.”
Although regulators have yet to reach a unified decision, blocking the app from Google Play and Apple’s App Store would effectively restrict its availability across the EU and the UK.
Background and Regulatory Scrutiny
DeepSeek, a Chinese AI firm, gained international attention this year for developing a chatbot model using less powerful Nvidia chips, claiming it rivaled top-tier AI models at a fraction of the cost.
However, this isn’t the app’s first brush with European scrutiny. Earlier in 2025:
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Italy ordered DeepSeek to block its app within the country.
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Ireland requested detailed information on the company’s data processing practices.
Despite growing concerns, DeepSeek has remained publicly silent, and there is no immediate indication whether Apple or Google will comply with Germany’s request.
