Discord Rolls Out Global Age Verification for Full Platform Access
Discord is making a significant update to how users experience the platform by rolling out a worldwide age verification process starting in March. By default, every account will operate in a restricted mode designed with teenager safety in mind. This means many features and types of content will remain limited until someone proves they are an adult. The goal is to create stronger built-in protections for younger users while still giving grown-ups the freedom they expect.
Without verification, people will find certain sensitive media automatically blurred. Age-restricted servers, channels, and even some app commands will stay off-limits. Direct messages from strangers will land in a separate requests folder instead of the main inbox, and only verified adults can adjust that behavior. Friend requests from unknown accounts will now trigger warning prompts to encourage caution.
Speaking on stage channels during live events is another feature reserved for confirmed adults. These restrictions apply across the board, whether someone is joining for the first time or has been on Discord for years. The platform wants to ensure everyone starts from the same protected baseline. Once age is verified, all these limitations disappear and the full experience opens up.
There are currently two ways to complete the verification. One option uses facial age estimation technology through a quick video selfie. Discord stresses that this video never leaves the user’s device, keeping the process private. The other method involves uploading a government ID to one of Discord’s trusted partner companies.
Those partners delete the document almost immediately after confirming the age in most cases. Discord has promised to add more verification choices over time. In some situations, the system might ask for both methods to reach a confident conclusion. The focus throughout is on balancing security with user privacy.
Savannah Badalich, Discord’s product policy manager, explained that these default teen settings strengthen the existing safety framework. They provide robust safeguards for younger members without permanently limiting adults who verify their age. This approach builds on regional rules that already existed in places like South Korea and now brings consistent protection everywhere. It reflects growing responsibility toward keeping online spaces appropriate for different age groups.
Existing members will encounter the new requirements whenever they try to access a restricted feature. New sign-ups will face the process even sooner. No one loses their account, but full functionality now depends on completing verification when needed. The transition aims to be smooth while prioritizing safety.
Many users appreciate the extra layer of protection for teens who spend hours gaming and chatting on Discord. Others worry about the hassle of uploading personal documents or relying on facial scanning accuracy. Privacy-conscious members will likely watch closely to see how well Discord and its partners handle data. Overall, the changes signal a maturing platform responding to real-world concerns about online youth safety.
What do you think about mandatory age checks on social and gaming platforms like this—share your thoughts in the comments.
