AI tools are evolving rapidly. But behind their convenience, there are real data-protection risks. For example, if you input personal data into an AI app, it may be transmitted to and stored on servers outside your control, subject to local laws.
Why “DeepSeek” raised concerns
In February, Japan’s Digital Agency published a caution about using the AI service “DeepSeek.” One key point from a privacy perspective is that data may be stored on servers located in the People’s Republic of China and governed by PRC laws.
Will personal data on a smartphone leak?
Simply installing an app does not automatically mean immediate leakage. However, if you prompt an AI app with personal data (e.g., creating an address book, drafting emails with names/addresses), that information can end up outside the device.
Can data erasure software mitigate this?
In short: no—if data already left the device and is stored on external servers, device-side erasure cannot remove it from those servers.
Data erasure software is effective at removing residual data on the device (phones, PCs, storage). It does not have the capability to delete data stored in external services.
Practical guidance
– Avoid entering personal or confidential information into third-party AI services unless you have verified the provider, policies, and legal implications.
– For corporate and public-sector environments, set clear rules on acceptable AI usage and data handling.
Looking ahead: On-device AI
As on-device AI becomes more common (e.g., features like “Copilot”), some data may stay local instead of being uploaded. In those cases, device-side data erasure is still important when devices are reused or disposed of.
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