Germany's data protection commissioner has urged Apple and Google to remove Chinese AI company DeepSeek from their app stores in Germany over concerns related to user data privacy, echoing similar actions taken in other countries. Commissioner Meike Kamp stated on Friday that the request was made because DeepSeek illegally sends users’ personal data to China. She emphasized that Apple and Google must now assess the request and determine whether to block the app in Germany, though no specific deadline has been set.

Google confirmed receipt of the request and is evaluating it. DeepSeek did not respond, and Apple has yet to comment. According to DeepSeek’s own privacy policy, it stores user data — including AI queries and uploaded files — on servers located in China. Kamp noted that the company failed to show adequate safeguards ensuring that German users' data is protected in line with EU standards. She also pointed out that Chinese authorities have extensive rights to access personal data from companies under their jurisdiction.

Kamp added that her office had asked DeepSeek in May to either meet EU data transfer requirements or voluntarily pull its app. Since the company did not comply, she proceeded with the removal request. DeepSeek made headlines in January with claims of building an AI model that could compete with leading U.S. systems like OpenAI’s ChatGPT at a lower cost. However, it has faced mounting scrutiny in both the U.S. and Europe over its data security practices.

Earlier this year, Italy removed DeepSeek from app stores, citing insufficient transparency on data use. The Netherlands has banned it on official devices, while Belgium has advised government personnel to avoid the app, pending further analysis. In Spain, consumer group OCU has asked regulators to investigate potential privacy risks posed by DeepSeek, though no official action has been taken. In the UK, the government has said using the app remains a personal choice, while continuing to monitor potential national security risks. In the U.S., lawmakers are preparing legislation to prohibit federal agencies from using any AI developed in China. Meanwhile, Reuters recently reported that DeepSeek is supporting China’s military and intelligence efforts.