Discord is overhauling its safety settings globally, moving all users to a “default teen” configuration starting in early March. This update aims to protect young users by restricting sensitive content and contact from strangers unless the account is verified as belonging to an adult.
Users must prove they’re an adult to access age-restricted channels, unblur sensitive content, and speak on stage. Discord is introducing several ways to verify your age, including facial estimation using video selfies processed on your device. Users can also choose to upload their official ID to a third-party partner, but Discord says the ID will be deleted immediately after verification. Additionally, an AI inference model works in the background to predict whether an account belongs to an adult based on platform behavior.
The rollout follows successful trials in the UK and Australia and automatically applies stricter privacy settings to all users. These changes include routing messages from unknown users to a different inbox and issuing alerts for suspicious friend requests. Only verified adults can switch off these restrictions and return to a more open experience.
Discord also has a “Teen Council” made up of 10 to 12 teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17. The group will advise the company on safety features and product policies to ensure the platform meets the actual needs of young users. Applications to the council are being accepted until May 1, 2026. According to Discord, these changes are designed to balance safety and privacy, ensuring that your age status is hidden from other users.
Previously, Discord allowed users to create an account by simply self-reporting their age by entering their date of birth. The system was easy for children to navigate, and young users could be exposed to creepy behavior on the platform. The new verification system aims to fill that gap, increasing protection for minors while also verifying the age of adult users.
