“The vast majority of people can continue using Discord exactly as they do today”: Discord addresses backlash over controversial age verification

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Just how will your data be protected?

Blue Discord logo displayed on a smartphone in front of white Discord logo and text on a blue background
(Image credit: NurPhoto / Getty Images)

The implementation of more detailed age verification on many of our favorite apps is become a path well trodden, but it's on the company to be as clear as possible about what that path means for the average user.

Yesterday, Discord announced on X that users would soon be required to verify their ages, or else be restricted to teen-level access on the service. The resulting debate has prompted the company to post a new statement that clarifies some key details.

Instead, the only time that the app will require users to prove their age is when accessing age-restricted experiences, such as particular servers or modifying certain safety settings. The post indicated that, most of the time, users' ages will be ascertained via machine learning programs based on patterns of behavior and other factors. As such, many users will never have to supply extra confirmation via face scans and ID.

What were some of the concerns around Discord's plans?

A phone with the Discord logo over a desk

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

While there is certainly an advantage to more stringent age verification (some countries, like the U.K., are even passing laws on it), many people are still wary about handing over so much private information.

In the case of Discord, this caution isn't without merit, as the company doesn’t exactly have the best track record in this area. Last year, we saw a massive data breach that affected thousands of Discord users. It seems Discord is aware of this concern, as the post states that facial scans remain on your device at all times and that IDs are only used to get your age, and then deleted.

The post also states that the company has partnered with “dedicated age assurance vendors who specialize in performing these verifications in a privacy-forward way. These vendors were not involved in the September 2025 data breach of our customer service agent.”

Discord is reportedly planning to roll out its new system in early March of this year, so we don't have long before we know precisely what these changes will mean for users.

Until then, let us know what you think in the comments below, including if you're looking for an alternative option to connect with like-minded communities.

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Josh Render
Josh Render
Staff Writer

Josh is a staff writer for Tom's Guide and is based in the UK. He has worked for several publications but now works primarily on mobile phones. Outside of phones, he has a passion for video games, novels, and Warhammer. 

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