DeepSeek's Censorship: Baked In, Not Just Skin Deep

DeepSeek's Censorship: Baked In, Not Just Skin Deep

The narrative surrounding DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model, has been complex, particularly concerning its censorship. A prevalent misconception suggested that DeepSeek's restrictions were merely an application-level facade, easily bypassed by running the model locally. This theory posited that downloading the AI model to a personal computer would unlock its full potential, free from government-imposed limitations. However, a thorough investigation by Wired, corroborated by independent analysis, has definitively debunked this myth. DeepSeek's censorship isn't a superficial layer; it's deeply ingrained within the model itself, present at both the application and training levels. This revelation carries significant implications, not just for DeepSeek but for the broader landscape of AI development, particularly in regions with stringent regulatory environments. It underscores the extent to which AI models can be shaped and constrained, raising concerns about the potential for…