U.S. orders DeepSeek stripped from civilian federal government computers

DHS made public an order requiring civilian agencies to remove Chinese AI firm DeepSeek's technology, citing data-security and espionage risks.

What happened: The Department of Homeland Security has made public an order requiring federal civilian agencies to strip DeepSeek-related technology from their IT systems and stop buying DeepSeek products or services, including those built by third parties on the company's tech. The order was originally issued July 24 and covers departments like Treasury, State and Justice, though not the Pentagon, which has its own separate restrictions already in place.

Why it matters: This formalizes what had been a patchwork of agency-by-agency bans since DeepSeek's early-2025 debut rattled the AI industry. DHS says the goal is to close gaps left by earlier, narrower restrictions, giving the government one consistent rule across civilian agencies rather than leaving it to each department to decide on its own.

How it works, plainly: DHS argues DeepSeek's models carry what it calls multiple threat vectors: sensitive government data processed through the service could end up accessible to Chinese authorities, potentially revealing information on citizens or government programs. The agency also points to outside research finding critical security flaws in DeepSeek's iOS app, raising the possibility of malware or other vulnerabilities beyond the data-routing concerns.

The rollout: Agencies can ask DHS for exceptions, including more time to comply, by filing a written justification within 60 days of the order. China's foreign ministry pushed back, with spokesperson Mao Ning saying Beijing opposes what it calls the overuse of national-security arguments to politicize tech and trade disputes, and said China would defend its companies' interests.