S.D. Bans China's DeepSeek and RedNote to 'Protect the State's Sensitive Data'
South Dakota banned China-based AI application DeepSeek, following Texas and New York state (see 2502100024), Gov. Larry Rhoden (R) said Tuesday. In addition, it banned TikTok alternative RedNote pursuant to a 2023 executive order by former Gov. Kristi Noem (R).
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“Both RedNote and DeepSeek pose significant security risks to” South Dakota, said Madhu Gottumukkala, commissioner of the state’s Bureau of Information and Telecommunications. “By prohibiting these applications, we are taking decisive action to protect the state's sensitive data and critical infrastructure from potential exploitation by malicious entities. We remain committed to strengthening the state’s cybersecurity defenses through proactive monitoring and risk mitigation.”
Rhoden, in Tuesday’s news release, added, “My Administration will continue to defend South Dakota citizens from Evil Foreign Governments, including the Chinese Communist Party.” The governor continued, “Banning RedNote and DeepSeek is a necessary step to protect our IT systems and keep South Dakota strong, safe, and free.”