UK cybersecurity leaders are sounding urgent warnings about Chinese AI group DeepSeek, with 81% of CISOs demanding government intervention. A survey of 250 CISOs by Absolute Security suggests growing fears that unregulated AI could trigger a national cyber emergency.
The study showed 34% of CISOs have banned AI tools completely, while 30% have shut down specific implementations due to safety concerns. DeepSeek is seen as a risk for exposing sensitive data and accelerating attacks. Sixty percent anticipate increased cyber incidents, and 42% believe AI poses more risk than benefit.
Absolute Security’s Andy Ward said platforms like DeepSeek are developing faster than enterprise security can keep pace with, leaving a readiness gap. Nearly half of CISOs admitted they are not prepared for AI-driven threats. Without oversight, the threat of major disruption looms.
Nonetheless, businesses are still building AI capabilities. Eighty-four percent are hiring AI specialists, and 80% are providing training for executives, with the goal of fostering resilience while limiting risky projects.
Security leaders stress that AI must be embraced responsibly. They call for regulation, talent development, and a national strategy to ensure AI strengthens rather than destabilises the economy.
