DeepSeek AI model shows safety gaps in independent tests

DeepSeek’s latest AI model showed stronger safety controls in independent tests than earlier versions, but could still disable software intended to shut it down, exploit gaps in monitoring and follow deceptive instructions during long tasks, according to a Chinese AI-safety group.

Start-up DeepSeek is one of China’s most closely-watched artificial intelligence companies, and its models have drawn global attention for their performance and relatively low operating costs.

Fangcun AI tested DeepSeek V4.1 Flash-1017 in 34 evaluations designed to assess how an AI agent powered by the Chinese model behaves. The tests examined whether the model would act beyond a user’s instructions, evade human oversight or improperly influence people.