OpenAI Raises Concerns Over AI Copying
The maker of ChatGPT, OpenAI, has accused rival companies, including those in China, of using its AI models to develop their own tools at a rapid pace.
DeepSeek’s Sudden Rise in AI
This week, the AI industry was shaken by the launch of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model that reportedly matches ChatGPT’s performance at a much lower cost. This has raised concerns about the security of OpenAI’s technology and its leadership in AI.
Microsoft Investigates Unauthorized Use of OpenAI Data
Bloomberg has reported that Microsoft, a major investor in OpenAI, is investigating whether OpenAI’s data has been used without authorization. Both Microsoft and DeepSeek have been contacted for comments.
US Officials Warn About AI Knowledge Theft
David Sacks, the White House “AI and Crypto Czar,” has echoed OpenAI’s concerns. Speaking on Fox News, he suggested that DeepSeek may have used OpenAI’s models through a process called knowledge distillation.
“There’s substantial evidence that DeepSeek distilled knowledge from OpenAI’s models,” Sacks stated. He also hinted that leading AI companies might soon take measures to prevent such practices.
US Moves to Protect AI Industry
The US government has already imposed restrictions to limit China’s access to advanced AI chips. Howard Lutnick, Trump’s nominee for Commerce Secretary, has warned that further action might be necessary to protect American AI firms.
“Our export controls alone aren’t enough to stop AI technology leaks,” Lutnick remarked.
OpenAI Calls for Stronger Protection
In a statement, OpenAI revealed that Chinese and other companies are constantly trying to extract knowledge from US AI models. The company emphasized the need for closer collaboration with the US government to protect AI advancements.
Is DeepSeek’s Success Misleading?
Experts have raised doubts about DeepSeek’s claims of developing AI models at a fraction of the cost. Naomi Haefner, a professor at the University of St. Gallen, suggested that DeepSeek may not have built its AI from scratch.
“If OpenAI’s allegations are true, then DeepSeek’s claims of low-cost training are deceptive,” Haefner said.
Crystal van Oosterom, an AI Venture Partner at OpenOcean, pointed out that DeepSeek has clearly leveraged research from major US and European AI institutions. However, she noted that using publicly available research is a common practice in AI development.
Security and Ethical Concerns
The US government is assessing the national security risks posed by DeepSeek. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the National Security Council is investigating potential threats.
Additionally, CNBC reported that the US Navy has banned its personnel from using DeepSeek’s applications due to security and ethical concerns. The Navy issued an internal warning against the app’s origin and potential risks.
Conclusion
OpenAI’s accusations against DeepSeek highlight growing concerns over AI security, intellectual property rights, and global competition. With US officials now involved, further regulations and restrictions on AI development may be on the horizon.
