Discord is implementing a new policy for underage users on the social media platform. In a statement released on Monday, the company said all accounts on the platform will be moved to “teen-by-default,” PC Mag reported. The goal, according to Discord, is to create “a safer and more inclusive experience” for teens.
While Discord hasn’t given a specific date for implementing the new policy, the company said the guidelines will be in effect starting in early March. The rules will apply to new and existing users.
“Nowhere is our safety work more important than when it comes to teen users,” Discord policy head Savannah Badalich told the BBC. “Rolling out teen-by-default settings globally builds on Discord’s existing safety architecture, giving teens strong protections while allowing verified adults flexibility.”
What are the changes users will see on Discord after the new rules take effect?
Discord users will be restricted from some features until they meet the requirements to prove they are adults. As the platform implements filters for content that may be seen as sensitive, users will be required to prove their identity to view censored content.
Discord will also warn users when they receive friend requests from people they may not know. Additionally, there will be a separate inbox for messages from people who haven’t previously connected with the user.
Although the rules have already been in effect in other countries, this will be the first time they’ll be implemented on Discord in the U.S.
How can users confirm their age on Discord?
People who want to confirm their age on Discord can record a video selfie to use the platform’s facial age estimation tool. They can also submit a government-issued ID. More age-verification methods are expected to be available in the future.
Discord, which faced scrutiny after 70,000 IDs were exposed in a breach last year, is telling users that it’s safe to share their information. The company said users’ documentation will be deleted shortly after they confirm their age.