When is Discord rolling out its age verification system?

Discord's age verification system is scheduled for a rollout in March.

What security concerns are users raising about Discord's age verification?

Users are concerned about data breaches, with a past incident in 2025 leaking 70,000 government IDs, and potential 'spying' through existing user activity information.

How are users responding to Discord's new age verification plans?

Many users are canceling their Nitro subscriptions and searching for alternative platforms due to privacy and security concerns.

Home / Technology / Discord's Age Scan Plan Sparks Backlash and Data Fears

Discord's Age Scan Plan Sparks Backlash and Data Fears

11 Feb

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Summary

Discord plans age verification rollout in March.
Past data breach contradicts claims of ID deletion.
Users canceling subscriptions and seeking alternatives.

Discord's Age Scan Plan Sparks Backlash and Data Fears

Discord is encountering significant user dissent regarding its planned age verification system, set to be implemented in March. The company has attempted to clarify its approach, stating that facial scans will remain on users' devices and IDs will be deleted after verification. However, these reassurances are overshadowed by a major data breach from 2025, where 70,000 government IDs were leaked, contradicting Discord's privacy claims.

This breach has intensified user fears about the security of their personal data. Many users are reacting by canceling their Discord Nitro subscriptions and actively searching for alternative platforms. The company's statement that it can verify age through existing user activity information has also raised suspicions of surveillance, with users feeling punished by stricter measures.

The implementation of these measures appears to be influenced by the UK's Online Safety Act. While initially focused on UK users, Discord is now enforcing these stringent privacy protocols globally. This expansion has led to widespread criticism, with many users considering leaving the platform unless these policies are reconsidered.