Discord has initiated testing of a new age verification system in the UK and Australia, requiring users to verify their age through facial scans or government-issued ID to access sensitive content. This move aligns with increasing regulatory pressures in both countries to enhance online safety for minors.
In Australia, legislation effective from November 2025 will prohibit individuals under 16 from registering on social media platforms, including Discord. Companies failing to enforce this age limit may face fines up to A$49.9 million. To support compliance, the Australian government is funding a A$3.4 million trial to evaluate various age verification methods, such as facial recognition and ID checks. However, concerns have been raised about the potential for minors to circumvent these systems using fake IDs or software that alters their appearance .
Similarly, the UK is implementing stringent age verification requirements for online platforms to protect children from inappropriate content. Discord’s new verification process offers two methods: a facial scan using a webcam or mobile camera, and an ID scan via a QR code link for uploading official identification documents. The company assures users that the information provided is used solely for the one-time verification process and is not stored.
Despite these assurances, the introduction of biometric verification has sparked privacy concerns among users. Critics argue that collecting sensitive personal data could pose risks, especially if the data is mishandled or breached. Additionally, the effectiveness of facial scanning technology for accurately determining the age of young users has been questioned by regulators .
As Discord navigates these challenges, the company emphasizes its commitment to user safety and compliance with evolving online safety laws. The outcome of these trials and the public’s response will likely influence the broader implementation of age verification measures on digital platforms.
