Discord Takes Age Verification to the Next Level

In an unexpected but groundbreaking move, Discord is rolling out face scanning technology to confirm users' ages in the UK and Australia. With a massive user base exceeding 200 million, the platform has evolved from its gaming roots into a social hub for diverse communities including adult content.

New Laws Demand Stricter Age Checks

As the UK gears up for stringent online safety regulations requiring robust age verification for platforms featuring adult material by July, Discord's initiative comes at a critical moment. Social media expert Matt Navarra emphasizes that this isn't merely a trial—it's a part of a seismic shift in how online safety is approached.

Facial Recognition: The Fast Track to Compliance?

Navarra points out that regulators are pushing for concrete proof of age, and facial recognition may be the fastest solution. "Age assurance is the new seatbelt for the internet," he states, suggesting that the era of easily bypassed age checks like 'click here to confirm you're 13' is nearing its end.

The Risks of Non-Compliance

Failing to get age verification right could result in hefty consequences, including courtroom battles and fines that could reach up to 10% of a company’s global revenue under the impending Online Safety Act. In this fierce new landscape, platforms must be ready to enhance their age checks.

Instagram's Steps Toward Age Verification

This isn't Discord's first venture into age checks; Instagram introduced its own facial analysis system in 2022 for users wanting to adjust their profiles to over 18. Users must take a selfie video that AI uses to estimate their age or can opt to upload a photo ID.

Privacy Concerns and User Trust

Discord assures users that facial scans will not be stored, remaining on the device itself, and uploaded IDs will be deleted after verification. The platform emphasizes user privacy while reinforcing that sensitive content is automatically blocked or blurred for younger users.

Are Facial Scans the Future of Online Safety?

With industry leaders like Discord and Instagram adopting stricter age verification methods, the question arises: will facial scanning become the norm in the UK and beyond? As regulations tighten, it seems users may have to adapt to a more secure—but possibly invasive—online environment.