The US has ordered the removal of all artificial intelligence (AI) technology from the Chinese firm DeepSeek from most government systems. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) banned the use of DeepSeek within civilian government agencies, and any technology built with its AI models, with the order made public on Monday, 19 October 2026.
The ban, which took effect from the end of July, applies to agencies such as the Department of the Treasury, the Department of State, and the Department of Justice. However, agencies within the Department of Defense are excluded from this order.
DeepSeek, an open-source AI model, has been described as a disruptive force in the AI technology race due to its accessibility and lower cost. While the DHS notice did not detail specific security concerns, the White House has previously criticised Chinese AI firms.