How does DeepSeek handle data sharing with third parties?

DeepSeek handles data sharing with third parties by establishing strict protocols to protect user data while enabling necessary integrations and services. The company shares data only when required for operational needs, legal compliance, or with explicit user consent. For example, third-party service providers like cloud infrastructure providers (e.g., AWS or Azure) may process data to host DeepSeek’s services, but these partners are contractually bound to adhere to data protection standards. Data is never shared for marketing or unrelated commercial purposes without clear user authorization.

Specific scenarios where data is shared include integrations with analytics tools, payment processors, or APIs that enhance functionality. For instance, anonymized usage metrics might be sent to platforms like Google Analytics to improve service performance, but personally identifiable information (PII) is stripped beforehand. Payment processing relies on trusted providers like Stripe or PayPal, which handle transactional data directly, minimizing DeepSeek’s exposure to sensitive financial information. In these cases, data minimization practices ensure only necessary details are shared, and encryption (e.g., AES-256 for data at rest, TLS 1.3 for data in transit) is applied to reduce risks.

DeepSeek also complies with legal requests for data, such as court orders or regulatory requirements, but evaluates such requests rigorously to avoid overreach. Users are notified of third-party sharing practices in the privacy policy, including how to opt out of non-essential data sharing where possible. Developers integrating with DeepSeek’s APIs can review detailed documentation outlining data flow boundaries, and audit logs are provided to track data access. This approach balances transparency, compliance, and technical practicality while prioritizing user control over their data.