The Risks to Identity and Access Management (IAM) When Using Apps Like DeepSeek

Artificial intelligence applications like DeepSeek are growing in popularity due to their ability to provide advanced recommendations, language generation, and predictive analytics. However, the adoption of such apps comes with significant risks to Identity and Access Management (IAM) frameworks, especially when these applications are installed on user devices and granted access to sensitive data. Below, we explore the key IAM risks that may be posed by apps like DeepSeek and offer strategies to mitigate them.

1. Data Privacy and Unauthorized Access

When users install apps like DeepSeek, they often grant permissions to access personal information, including contacts, location, and files stored on their devices. This access can create vulnerabilities in IAM systems by exposing:

• User Credentials: If the app has access to saved passwords or login tokens, it can inadvertently or maliciously transmit this data to external servers.
• Sensitive Files: Granting access to cloud storage or local files can result in the exposure of sensitive business documents, potentially compromising organizational security.
• Organizational Access: Granting access to company access tools or applications compromising organizational security.

2. Compliance Risks

IAM frameworks often operate under stringent compliance requirements, such as GDPR, CCPA, or HIPAA, which mandate secure handling of personal and organizational data.

Applications like DeepSeek, which reportedly transmit user data to servers in jurisdictions like China, may conflict with these compliance mandates. The data laws in some jurisdictions requires all gathered data be shared with the foreign government. The lack of transparency in how data is processed and shared increases the risk of non-compliance penalties for organizations at the very least.

3. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

DeepSeek’s ties to foreign governments raise concerns about potential backdoors or surveillance capabilities embedded within its code. If such an app is installed on a device that is part of an organization’s IAM ecosystem, it could:

• Intercept Authentication Processes: Apps with elevated privileges could monitor login activities and capture sensitive credentials.
• Facilitate Insider Threats: By providing unauthorized third parties with access to organizational data, these apps create opportunities for breaches initiated from within.

4. Phishing and Social Engineering Risks

By collecting extensive user data, apps like DeepSeek can create highly personalized phishing campaigns. For example, harvested data could be used to:

• Craft convincing spear-phishing emails targeting high-value IAM accounts.
• Impersonate users within an organization to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access.

5. Compromising Zero Trust Architectures

Zero Trust frameworks rely on the principle of never assuming trust, even for internal users or devices. However, apps like DeepSeek can undermine this model by:

• Creating shadow IT systems where unverified apps circumvent IAM controls.
• Acting as an attack vector for lateral movement within the network.

Mitigation Strategies

Organizations can take several steps to address these risks and secure their IAM systems:

• Implement Strict App Policies: Prohibit or restrict the use of unverified third-party apps on devices connected to the IAM infrastructure.
• Data Segmentation: Limit the access granted to applications by enforcing the principle of least privilege, ensuring that apps only have access to data essential for their operation.
• Endpoint Protection: Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor app activities and block suspicious behavior in real time.
• Regular Audits: Conduct periodic audits of devices and applications that interact with the IAM framework to identify and remediate risks.
• Zero Trust Enhancements: Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) and real-time behavioral analysis to detect anomalies linked to app usage.
• Educate Users: Train employees to recognize the risks of installing apps like DeepSeek and to exercise caution when granting permissions.

While AI-powered apps promise enhanced productivity and innovation, their use comes with substantial risks to IAM system security. By understanding these risks and adopting proactive mitigation strategies, organizations can safeguard their digital identities and access controls while leveraging AI responsibly. Ultimately, the key lies in maintaining a balance between innovation and security, ensuring that new technologies serve as enablers rather than liabilities in the digital ecosystem.