Tennessee Bans Chinese AI Tools from State Networks

Governor Bill Lee has ordered a ban on the use of Chinese artificial intelligence tools DeepSeek and Manus on Tennessee government networks. This decision follows concerns about data security and foreign interference.

The move is part of a broader effort to protect state systems from potential cybersecurity threats linked to foreign AI technologies. Tennessee officials have taken steps to remove these AI tools from government devices and prevent future access.

Why Tennessee Is Blocking DeepSeek and Manus

The state government believes that AI tools from foreign companies, especially China, could pose risks to data security. These tools can process large amounts of information, raising concerns about how user data is handled and where it is stored.

Officials have cited potential risks, including:

• Data privacy issues
• Potential cybersecurity threats
• Concerns about foreign influence
• Uncertainty about AI decision-making processes

Governor Lee stated that Tennessee must ensure its digital infrastructure remains secure. The ban applies specifically to government networks, meaning public institutions will no longer be able to access these tools.

How DeepSeek and Manus Work

Both DeepSeek and Manus are AI-powered tools that help users generate text, summarize information, and analyze data. They function similarly to popular AI models like ChatGPT.

DeepSeek

DeepSeek is an AI chatbot developed in China. It processes information and provides responses to user queries. Like other AI systems, it learns from user inputs and improves its responses over time.

Manus

Manus is another AI model that focuses on language processing. It can assist with writing, translating, and summarizing content. However, concerns about data privacy and foreign control have led to caution in its use.

Security Concerns with Foreign AI Tools

Many experts warn that AI tools developed in countries like China could collect sensitive data. If these AI systems process government information, there is a risk that data could be accessed by foreign entities.

Potential risks of using foreign AI models include:

• Unauthorized data collection
• Influence on decision-making processes
• Lack of transparency in data handling
• Security vulnerabilities within government systems

Some U.S. states and federal agencies have already taken steps to limit the use of foreign AI software to protect national security.

Other States Taking Similar Actions

Tennessee is not the only state restricting the use of foreign AI tools. Several other states have also placed limitations on certain AI applications due to security risks.

Some states banning or restricting foreign AI tools include:

• Texas
• Florida
• Montana
• Virginia

At the federal level, lawmakers have discussed broader regulations to control the use of AI developed by foreign companies. These discussions focus on protecting national security and user privacy.

How the Ban Affects Tennessee Government Operations

State agencies will no longer be able to access DeepSeek and Manus on government networks. Employees must avoid using these tools for official tasks. The IT department has started blocking these AI systems and ensuring they are not installed on state devices.

The ban also serves as a warning for individuals and businesses. Although it only applies to government networks, private companies in Tennessee may also decide to review their use of foreign AI models.

What’s Next for AI Regulations?

The rise of artificial intelligence has created new challenges for lawmakers. Many states are now working on regulations to ensure AI is used safely.

Future AI regulations may include:

• Restrictions on AI use in sensitive industries
• Increased transparency for AI developers
• Security guidelines for state agencies using AI
• Potential federal bans on certain AI tools

As AI technology continues to evolve, lawmakers will need to balance innovation with security. The focus will be on preventing misuse while allowing ethical and responsible AI development.

Final Thoughts

Tennessee’s decision to block DeepSeek and Manus reflects growing concerns about AI security. By banning these tools from government networks, the state hopes to protect sensitive data and reduce cybersecurity risks.

This action is part of a larger trend in the U.S. to regulate artificial intelligence. Other states and federal agencies are also considering similar restrictions to ensure AI tools align with security and privacy standards.

As AI continues to develop, governments will need to create clear guidelines to manage risks while allowing useful AI applications to thrive.

(Source: https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/politics/2025/03/06/deepseek-manus-gov-bill-lee-blocks-ai-tools-from-tennessee-networks/81808161007/)

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