Discord introduces global age verification with on-device enforcing teen-by-default experience
The platform adopts stricter defaults as online safety regulations tighten worldwide.
Discord has officially announced a major shift in its global safety architecture. Beginning in early March 2026, the platform will implement a “teen-by-default” approach for all new and existing accounts worldwide. This update means that every user will be automatically placed into a restricted, age-appropriate experience unless they successfully complete a verification process to prove they are an adult. This global rollout follows successful trials in Australia and the United Kingdom, where similar measures were introduced to comply with local safety regulations.
Restricted Features and the Age Verification Process
Under these new settings, users who have not verified their age will face several significant limitations designed to enhance safety. These include the inability to unblur sensitive content, a total block on entering age-restricted (18+) channels and servers, and restrictions on using certain app commands. Furthermore, unverified users will be unable to speak on Discord Server Stages or receive direct messages from people they do not know, as these will be diverted to a separate “Message Request” inbox.
“Rolling out teen-by-default settings globally builds on Discord’s existing safety architecture, giving teens strong protections while allowing verified adults flexibility,” the company wrote in a statement accompanying the news. “We design our products with teen safety principles at the core and will continue working with safety experts, policymakers, and Discord users to support meaningful, long term wellbeing for teens on the platform.”
To regain full access, Discord is introducing “privacy-forward age assurance” methods. Users can choose between facial age estimation—which uses a video selfie processed entirely on-device to ensure data never leaves the hardware—or submitting a government-issued ID to a third-party vendor. Discord emphasizes that any identification documents provided will be deleted quickly, in most cases immediately after the age group is confirmed.
Related stories
The platform is also deploying a background “age inference model.” This system uses various account signals to estimate a user’s age group without always requiring manual verification. This is part of a broader goal to make the transition as seamless as possible for long-time adult users while maintaining high standards for teen safety.
Follow MeriStation USA on X (formerly known as Twitter). Your video game and entertainment website for all the news, updates, and breaking news from the world of video games, movies, series, manga, and anime. Previews, reviews, interviews, trailers, gameplay, podcasts and more! Follow us now!
Complete your personal details to comment