Discord has started applying a new age verification policy that automatically categorizes users into adult and adolescent groups. This change comes after the platform postponed the global implementation of the system in February due to concerns regarding personal data collection and privacy.
Starting this week, Discord classifies users as Adult or Adolescent using indicators such as account age, the servers the individual participates in, and their general engagement patterns. The company assures that it will not access messages or calls to determine this estimated age. Additionally, each user's age group will not be displayed on their profile nor shared with other server members.
Users themselves can check their classification in the group through the Account Status section, located in settings. According to Discord, approximately 90% of the public will not need to take any extra steps if they are already in the category compatible with their age.
Restrictions applied to adolescent users
Users classified in the adolescent group will be subject to three main sets of limitations. The first affects messages and friend requests: messages sent by non-friends will be routed to the request inbox. Discord will also issue a warning before an adolescent accepts a friend request from someone who does not have mutual friends or does not participate in a small server.
The second restriction relates to content. Adolescents will be prevented from viewing certain materials on the platform, including images marked as sensitive by Discord's content filters. They will also be unable to access servers, channels, and bot commands restricted solely to adults.
Finally, the full profile details and activity of the adolescent will only be visible to friends and participants of smaller servers. Accounts still in the unconfirmed age category will remain subject to the first two restrictions until the user confirms their age.
This new guideline represents a modification from the plan initially announced by Discord. In February, the company had communicated that it was postponing the worldwide implementation until the second half of 2026, specifically to expand verification options and address user concerns about privacy.