DeepSeek has computer code that could send some user login information to a Chinese state-owned telecommunications company, say researchers.

The New South Wales government has blocked access to Chinese AI chatbot DeepSeek over privacy and security concerns, with other Australian states also assessing potential risks. The move follows warnings from cybersecurity experts about the chatbot’s data storage in China and its compliance with government directives.

Australia issued a statement that requires all government entities to prevent the access, use or installation of DeepSeek products, applications and web services on Australian government systems and mobile devices.