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The Ministry of Finance has banned the use of AI tools like ChatGPT and DeepSeek on office devices due to concerns over the potential leakage of sensitive government data. The directive, approved by Finance Secretary Tuhin Kanta Pandey, applies to all AI tools within the ministry's network. A letter titled "Avoiding the Use of AI Tools/Apps in Office Devices" has been sent to all departments, urging employees to avoid using these tools on official devices to protect data confidentiality.
The ban, which came into effect on January 29, 2025, just before the Union Budget announcement, will remain in place beyond the budget period, signaling long-term concerns over data security. The decision comes amidst growing global concerns about AI security, particularly tools developed by Chinese firms like DeepSeek, which has been under regulatory scrutiny. Other countries, including Australia and South Korea, have also restricted access to DeepSeek on government devices.
While the Ministry of Finance has not officially commented on the ban, experts believe the decision reflects broader worries over AI's role in handling sensitive data. This move aligns with similar actions taken by other governments to address the security risks associated with AI tools. The ban signals a cautious approach to adopting AI within government agencies, with a focus on protecting data over the convenience of new technologies.
