UK AI minister Feryal Clark has urged caution for Britons using the DeepSeek chatbot. She emphasized the importance of understanding data usage before downloading the app.

The DeepSeek chatbot, which produces results similar to leading US models at a lower cost, topped Apple’s iPhone app store in the UK.

Clark said she does not intend to download the app, and the UK government will monitor its developments.

The UK has also started creating a voluntary code of practice to guide businesses and public services in mitigating cybersecurity risks, including hacking and system failures.

This proactive measure, independent of DeepSeek’s introduction, will be submitted to the European Telecommunications Standards Institute.

Additionally, the UK is advancing a cybersecurity bill to address vulnerabilities and strengthen defenses against potential threats.

Recent DeepSeek developments