Texas law prohibits certain apps and devices on government computers and networks. HCC is covered by that law, so these restrictions apply to us.
This is not an HCC preference, and no department or supervisor can make an exception.
For AI specifically
DeepSeek is on the prohibited list.
It cannot be used on HCC computers, on the HCC network, or on your personal phone or laptop while you are doing HCC work. This covers the app, the website, and models released by the same company.
Other prohibited apps you may recognize
The full list is longer, but these come up most often:
- TikTok, RedNote, and Lemon8
- WeChat, WeChat Pay, and Alipay
- CamScanner and WPS Office
- Kaspersky antivirus
- Moomoo, Webull, and Tiger Brokers
Some hardware is also restricted, including Huawei, ZTE, Hikvision, Dahua, Hytera, and DJI.
Where this applies
- Any HCC computer, laptop, tablet, or phone
- The HCC network
- Your own phone or laptop, when you are using it for HCC work, HCC email, or HCC files
If you have one installed
- Remove it from any HCC device.
- Remove it from your personal device if you use that device for HCC work.
- Call the IT Service Desk if you are not sure whether something is covered, or if removing it affects work you need to do.
The list changes as new apps are reviewed. If an app is not named above, that does not automatically mean it is fine. When in doubt, ask.
See the current state list of covered applications and prohibited technologies
This comes from Texas Government Code Chapter 620 and orders from the Governor's office, most recently updated in early 2026.