Discord introduces mandatory age verification for adult content globally

Discord, the online chat platform with over 200 million monthly users, will require all users worldwide to verify their age via a face scan or ID upload to access adult content. This change, rolling out from early March, aims to create a safer environment by defaulting all users to a teen-appropriate experience. The new measures will restrict content visibility and communication options until a user is verified as an adult. Direct messages from unknown users will also be hidden unless age verification is completed. Users can either upload an official ID, which will be deleted after verification, or use a video selfie analyzed by AI to estimate age. Discord emphasized that face scans are not stored. While these safety measures are intended to protect minors, privacy experts have raised concerns, especially after a 2024 incident where ID photos of approximately 70,000 users were potentially exposed during a hack. The initiative aligns with broader industry trends, as platforms like Meta, TikTok, and Roblox also implement stricter safety features for young users. Analysts suggest the rollout could face challenges but may also attract users seeking safer online communities.