Expanded EDPB Initiative Targets DeepSeek and Advanced AI Systems in Privacy Enforcement Efforts

EDPB Expands Scope of AI Oversight to Include Chinese Chatbot DeepSeek in Privacy Investigations

On 12 February 2025, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) announced a noteworthy expansion of its existing ChatGPT task force. The new scope now includes other artificial intelligence systems, with a particular focus on the Chinese AI chatbot DeepSeek.

This decision comes amid ongoing investigations by national data protection authorities into data collection practices across various AI applications. The EDPB is aiming to strengthen its oversight of how personal data is gathered and processed by these emerging technologies.

DeepSeek Joins the AI Watchlist

DeepSeek, a Chinese-developed chatbot that has attracted attention for its distinctive approach to data handling, is the latest addition to the task force’s responsibilities.

Authorities have raised concerns about the methods employed by such AI systems in collecting and processing user information. The inclusion of DeepSeek is intended to ensure that all AI systems, not just popular models like ChatGPT, are subject to uniform scrutiny under European data protection standards.

The update signals the EDPB’s commitment to a comprehensive review of data practices that affect user privacy across borders.

Coordination sur l’IA et protection des mineurs : retour sur la dernière plénière du CEPD

Intelligence artificielle Au cours de la séance plénière du 12 février, le CEPD a décidé d’inclure dans le champ de sa task force dédiée à ChatGPT les investigations concernant DeepSeek, et de manière générale toutes les act

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Coordinating National Enforcement Efforts

In a further step to boost its enforcement capabilities, the EDPB has established a quick response team designed to support national data protection authorities. This team is tasked with providing immediate assistance and facilitating coordination among various national bodies during enforcement actions.

By setting up this dedicated unit, the board aims to improve the efficiency of its response to privacy breaches and ensure that any potential infringements are dealt with swiftly. The enhanced cooperation is expected to aid in better alignment of regulatory approaches throughout the European Union.

Tightening Control Over Data Collection Practices

The decision to extend the task force’s responsibilities reflects growing concerns over the practices employed by data collectors in the AI sector.

National authorities have reported instances where sensitive personal information has been gathered without proper safeguards. With the new measures, the EDPB seeks to foster closer collaboration and a more unified response to these issues.

Stakeholders in the privacy domain can view this development as part of a broader regulatory effort to protect individual rights in the digital age.