China’s Deepseek -Prohibition begins in us – and it started in Elon Musk’s new home state

Texas has become the first state of the United States to prohibit the Chinese-owned AI app, Deepseek, due to escalating concern for national security. Governor Greg Abbott signed an order prohibiting the use of Deepseek on all state -issued units, citing the fear that the Chinese Communist Party could access sensitive data. The prohibition places Texas at the forefront of a global movement against the app that has raised concerns because of its data storage practices and links to the Chinese government.Abbott explained the rationale behind the ban and said, “Texas will not allow the Chinese Communist Party to infiltrate our state’s critical infrastructure through data processing of AI and social media.” He added that state agencies and employees handling critical infrastructure, intellectual property, and personal information should be shielded against “malicious espionage operations” by the Chinese government.

Deepseeks global increase and security concerns

Deepseek, a Chinese-developed artificial intelligence application, has received considerable attention around the world for its ability to transition Openai at a much lower price. However, its popularity has been overcontracted by concerns about data security. Reports have indicated that the app stores user data on servers in China and raises fears of the potential of Chinese authorities to access this information under local laws, which requires companies to share data with the government if requested.

These concerns have already led the US Navy to ban the app with NASA and other state agencies after subsequently. Deepseek has also been banned from US military units and is under intense control of US lawmakers and regulators.

Governor Abbott’s movement is consistent with growing concerns in the United States about the potential risks of Chinese apps that can compromise users’ privacy and national security. Abbott’s statement emphasizes Texas’ obligation to protect its state infrastructure from foreign threats: “Texas will continue to protect and defend our state from hostile foreign actors.”

Elon Musk’s influence in Texas

The Deepseek ban also comes at a time when Texas is becoming more and more significant in the tech world. The state is now home to the headquarters of Elon Musk’s SpaceX and his social media platform, X, moving from California in 2023. Musk’s decision to move to Texas was partly in response to a controversial law in California that required teachers to notify parents if Their child changed name or gender identity in school. Musk, known for his pronounced views, expressed frustration over the law that further cementing his decision to move its businesses to Texas. Musk’s move to Texas has been framed as part of the state’s wider appeal to tech companies and innovators. SpaceX’s headquarters in Texas, combined with Musk’s increasing influence, the state further raises as a hub of technological progress. However, the Deepseek ban also reflects a growing turmoil around foreign tech companies that potentially compromise on national security.

Global control of Deepseek

The study on Deepseek is not limited to the United States. Italy, Taiwan and Australia have also taken steps towards the app, citing national security concerns. Italy’s Data Protection Authority ordered a nationwide ban on Deepseek and prevented it being downloaded from the Apple and Google App stores. The Italian regulator also opened a study of the app’s compliance with European data protection laws.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Digital Affairs followed where he banned DeeSek from government agencies and called on companies involved in critical infrastructure to take similar actions. Australia introduced its own ban on February 4, 2025, when Minister Tony Burke Burke on domestic affairs said the app posed a significant national security risk.

The rising global setback against Deepseek reflects a broader tendency for governments and security experts taking a stand on Chinese tech companies and their potential influence on global data. As several countries participate in the list of those investigating or imposing restrictions on Deepseek, the future of the app remains uncertain.

US legislation on Chinese AI -Apps

In the midst of growing concerns, US legislators are also considering harder measures to limit the use of Deepseek and other Chinese-developed technologies. Republican Senator Josh Hawley introduced a bill that would impose serious sanctions on using AI products developed in China. The bill, although not mentioning Deepseek specifically, suggests fines of up to $ 1 million for individuals and up to $ 100 million for companies found in violation. The bill also includes the possibility of prison sentences of up to 20 years for individuals who are caught promoting AI capabilities in China.

Security experts have warned that Deepseeks data storage policies could expose businesses and governments to significant risks. Bill Conner, CEO of Automation Firm Jitterbit, and former US security adviser, said, “Deepseek represents a clear risk to any business whose management value appreciates data protection, security and transparency.” Conner added that the app’s shared Cloud Service Model, with data stored in China, introduces “unknown risks of data protection, compliance mandates and security checks.”

Texas’ decision to ban Deepseek is just the beginning of a wider global movement against the Chinese app. With growing concerns about national security, privacy and data protection, more countries are likely to follow in the coming months. As the United States, along with other nations, are struggling with the consequences of Chinese-developed AI technologies, the debate on data security and national sovereignty will continue to shape the future of digital management.