Finance Ministry Restricts AI Tools on Official Devices
The Finance Ministry has issued a directive prohibiting its officers from downloading or utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) applications such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek on official computers and devices, citing concerns over data and document confidentiality.
Directive to Avoid AI Tools
In a communication dated January 29, 2025, the Department of Expenditure within the ministry emphasized that AI tools and applications should be strictly avoided on office devices. The directive stated that such tools pose risks to the confidentiality of government data and documents.
Global Concerns Over AI Applications
This move aligns with actions taken by other countries that have restricted the use of certain AI applications due to privacy and data security concerns. For instance, some nations have implemented measures to protect their official systems from specific AI tools over similar issues.
Recent Developments in AI
The directive comes at a time when AI applications are gaining significant attention globally. Notably, some AI offerings have drawn attention for their low-cost models, utilizing a fraction of the computational power compared to established AI models.
Conclusion
By restricting the use of certain AI tools on official devices, the Finance Ministry aims to safeguard the confidentiality of government data and documents, reflecting a cautious approach to integrating emerging technologies into official workflows.
