Discord has launched its new age assurance system in most countries except Australia and the UK. It automatically estimates users' age groups based on multiple account signals. Users identified as aged 13 to 17 are placed in the teen group, with certain features restricted by default.
This new approach comes about seven months after Discord paused its previous age verification measures. In February, the platform halted its original plan due to user concerns over data privacy. The earlier scheme required adult users to verify their age via video selfies or identity documents; subsequently, a data breach at a third-party Discord vendor compromised user information and scanned photo IDs.
Discord co-founder Stanislav Vishnevskiy stated that the new model considers account registration date and usage history, user activity in channels and servers, as well as associated communities, servers, and games. The system does not review user messages, calls, or other content, and its age estimation accuracy is claimed to be comparable to that of biometric methods.
The platform expects that around 90% of users will not need to actively confirm their age under the new system. Users identified as 18 or older will be placed in the adult group with no changes to their accounts. The teen group will have sensitive content filtering and blurring enabled by default, along with restrictions on accessing 18+ servers and certain messaging features.
Users who cannot be automatically categorized by the system will be unable to use certain settings and features until they provide additional information. The verification entry point is located in the "Account Status" page under "User Settings." Adult users incorrectly assigned to the teen group can also submit additional details here.
In addition to facial and ID document scans, Discord has added verification methods such as credit cards, Apple App Store, Google Play Store, Google Wallet, and AgeKey credentials. Vishnevskiy noted that meeting age requirements should not mean everyone must submit IDs or selfies, and the platform aims to offer more options that do not rely on biometrics or sensitive personal data.