Discord to require face scan or ID for age verification starting next month

Discord will require face scans or ID checks for age verification starting to strengthen safety and teen protections

Discord has announced a global rollout of mandatory age verification beginning in March, introducing stricter safety measures designed to create a “teen-appropriate experience by default” for all users. 

The move aligns with a growing international push for stronger online child protection and age-check policies across digital platforms.

Under the new system, users who do not verify themselves as adults will face restrictions on accessing age-restricted servers and channels. They will also be unable to participate in Stage channels, encounter filters on graphic or sensitive content, and receive warning prompts for friend requests from unfamiliar users. Direct messages from unknown accounts will automatically be routed to a separate inbox.

To complete the verification process, users can choose between facial age estimation or submitting a government-issued ID through third-party vendor partners. Discord emphasized that video selfies used for AI-based age estimation remain on the user’s device, while ID images are deleted shortly after confirmation. The company clarified that it does not retain personal details such as names or locations.

The update follows concerns about data privacy after a previous vendor experienced a breach that exposed age verification data. Discord says it has since switched vendors and strengthened its security practices.

Additionally, the platform is developing an age inference model that evaluates metadata such as user activity, gaming behavior, and online patterns. Users confidently identified as adults through this system may not need to complete further verification.

While Discord expects minimal disruption for most users, the company acknowledges that some may leave due to privacy concerns. However, it maintains that the primary goal is enhancing safety, particularly around explicit content, as regulatory pressure on tech platforms continues to grow.