Discord has delayed its global age verification system to the second half of 2026 following widespread criticism from users concerned about privacy. The platform had initially announced that all users would need to verify their age starting in March, with accounts unable to do so limited to a “teen-appropriate experience.” The delay comes after backlash over how the verification system would operate and fears that personal data, including facial scans or ID uploads, would be required.
Company Addresses Communication Issues
Co-founder and CTO Stanislav Vishnevskiy admitted that Discord did not provide clear information on how the verification process would work. This lack of clarity contributed to misunderstandings, with many users assuming the company would collect sensitive biometric data. Vishnevskiy stated that while the rollout was expected to generate strong reactions, Discord should have better explained the intentions and mechanics of the system to users.
He emphasized that concerns about personal data are valid, acknowledging broader skepticism toward tech companies handling sensitive information. Vishnevskiy clarified that Discord is not seeking to collect additional personal data from users unnecessarily, and that safeguards are in place to protect privacy while ensuring teen safety.
Privacy and Safety Considerations
The company stressed that protecting younger users remains a priority, particularly in communities where revealing personal information could pose safety risks. The delay follows a 2025 customer service breach that affected 70,000 users. Discord said it has since ended its relationship with the vendor involved and strengthened its security and privacy review processes for partners.
In regions with local age verification requirements, such as the UK, Australia, and Brazil, adults accessing restricted content must verify their age through approved third-party systems. Outside these countries, more than 90% of users are expected to continue using Discord without any verification prompt, as internal systems can already determine the age of many adult users.
Testing and Technical Adjustments
Discord had run a limited test with the UK-based age verification firm Persona but decided not to move forward due to privacy concerns. The company now requires any facial age estimation to occur entirely on the user’s device, ensuring that biometric information is not transmitted externally. This change reflects Discord’s approach to balancing regulatory compliance with user privacy.
Looking Ahead
While the rollout has been delayed, Discord continues to prioritize teen safety and privacy. The platform plans to communicate more clearly with users about verification processes and explore methods that minimize data collection while meeting legal requirements.
Source: PocketGamer
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will Discord's global age verification begin?
The global rollout is now scheduled for the second half of 2026. Users outside regions with specific age verification laws will likely not encounter prompts.
Will users have to upload ID or use facial scans?
No. Discord clarified that most users will not need to submit ID or perform facial scans. Any facial age verification must occur entirely on the user’s device.
Why is Discord implementing age verification?
Discord says the system is designed to protect teen users and comply with local regulations in certain countries.
How does this affect regions with age verification laws?
In countries like the UK, Australia, and Brazil, adults accessing age-restricted content must verify their age through approved third-party systems.
What happened with the 2025 security breach?
A customer service vendor handling Discord data experienced a breach affecting 70,000 users. Discord ended its partnership with that vendor and strengthened privacy and security procedures.
Will most users need to verify their age?
No. Discord reports that over 90% of users will not need to take any action, as the platform’s internal systems can determine the age of many adult accounts.
