SUMMARY
- All Discord accounts will default to restricted settings until verified.
- Age verification requires a government ID or a video selfie processed on device.
- Unverified users will have limited access to age restricted servers and filtered messages from strangers.
SAN FRANCISCO — Discord announced that age verification will become mandatory for all users worldwide beginning in early March, in a move to strengthen protections for minors and comply with rising global regulatory pressure.
The platform said unverified accounts will face significant limitations until users verify their age.
Discord, a popular chat and voice platform, will automatically restrict accounts to “teen appropriate experiences” for users who do not complete verification.
The change aims to make social media safer for children and adolescents amid previous safety incidents.
The company has faced scrutiny over minors accessing age restricted servers and sensitive content.
Other platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have implemented similar verification processes, signaling a broader industry shift toward stricter online age controls.
“Mandatory age verification reduces exposure to harmful content while aligning with international child protection laws,” said Dr. Maria Lopez, senior researcher at the Center for Digital Safety.
Privacy expert Ravi Sharma, director at Data Ethics Institute, added, “Discord’s on device processing of video selfies and quick deletion of submitted IDs demonstrate a cautious approach to sensitive data, though public trust remains critical.”
“I understand the need for verification, but I hope privacy stays protected,” said 17 year old user Aisha Khan from London.
Discord spokesperson Jamie Richardson confirmed, “We are committed to safeguarding user data while improving safety globally.”
Discord plans a phased rollout and will monitor compliance with global regulations, joining other major platforms enforcing strict age verification.
The new policy represents a significant evolution in access to online content, aiming to balance user safety and privacy worldwide.
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