- Have any questions?
- 02 7200 2179
- media@commsroom.co
- Have any questions?
- 02 7200 2179
- media@commsroom.co
This decision follows federal security advice highlighting DeepSeek’s data retention policies and the vulnerabilities generative AI tools can introduce into government communication channels.
Government agencies rely heavily on secure communication channels to maintain public trust, coordinate services, and ensure effective information flow within public services.
DeepSeek’s platforms, which store and process vast amounts of data to improve AI performance, have raised red flags about unauthorised access and potential data leaks.
The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has warned that improperly managed generative AI tools could unintentionally expose confidential information, posing a risk to the integrity of government communications.
Read also: AI could transform cybersecurity—if leaders get on board
Stephen Mullighan, South Australia’s Treasurer, emphasised the importance of this protective measure:
“We have taken swift action to ban DeepSeek on government devices, based upon the best advice from federal security advisors and our Chief Information Officer. This is a necessary and prudent measure to protect the security of government information and any information held on behalf of the general public.”
While AI advancements offer opportunities for efficiency and innovation, the human impact of compromised communication systems is significant.
Data breaches can erode public confidence, disrupt services, and spread misinformation. In response, both governments have implemented key steps, including removing DeepSeek applications from all devices, blocking access to its services, and strengthening Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies to prevent unauthorised use on personal devices.
Michael Brown, Assistant Minister for Artificial Intelligence and the Digital Economy, acknowledged the dual nature of AI technology:
“We know the potential and opportunities of AI; however, when it comes to unacceptable risk to sensitive government information, it is imperative that we take swift action.”
As the public sector adapts to evolving technologies, safeguarding communication remains a top priority.
The Queensland and South Australian governments’ proactive response to DeepSeek AI platforms demonstrates their commitment to maintaining the integrity and reliability of public communication.
Their actions set a precedent for balancing AI innovation with the fundamental need for secure, trustworthy communication channels across government services.
This post was also published on Public Spectrum. See here.
Adrianne Saplagio is a Content Producer at Comms Room, where she combines her passion for storytelling with her expertise in multimedia content creation. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for engaging audiences, Adrianne has been instrumental in crafting compelling narratives that resonate across various digital platforms.
