In a decisive action that underscores heightened cybersecurity concerns, Governor Kathy Hochul has instituted a statewide ban on the use of the DeepSeek Artificial Intelligence app across government devices and networks. The New York governor's directive comes amidst rising unease over the potential risks posed by the technology which is developed by High-Flyer, a stock trading firm based in the People's Republic of China.

DeepSeek AI has come under scrutiny for its potential use in harvesting user data and technology secrets, a concern particularly sensitive given the app's origins from an foreign enterprise, according to Governor Hochul's office. "Public safety is my top priority and we’re working aggressively to protect New Yorkers from foreign and domestic threats," Governor Hochul said. Such a ban reflects New York's commitment to combat cyber threats, while prioritizing data privacy and resistance against state-sponsored censorship.

In support of the governor's stance, Colin Ahern, New York State Chief Cyber Officer, emphasized the protection of New Yorkers' privacy and freedom as integral to the state's security and resilience framework. "This action today demonstrates we will continue to defend New York from cyber threats," Ahern stated to Governor Hochul's office, delineating the state's vigour in its defensive stance against such infiltrations.

Reinforcing this sentiment, Dru Rai, New York State Office of Information Technology Services Chief Information Officer and Director, endorsed the governor’s decision in alignment with New York's standards for the application of AI technologies. "The decision by Governor Hochul to prevent downloads of DeepSeek is consistent with the State’s Acceptable Use of Artificial Intelligence Technologies policy," Rai told Governor Hochul's office, highlighting the ongoing initiatives to evaluate AI responsibly and securing New York's critical infrastructure.