Discord introduces automatic age estimation for users worldwide (excluding Australia and UK)

Discord has launched a new global age‑assurance system that will take effect today in every country except Australia and the United Kingdom. The platform will automatically place users into an estimated age group using “multiple account signals,” and will impose restrictions on accounts that the system deems to belong to individuals aged 13 to 17. The change follows Discord’s decision in February to halt its earlier age‑verification rollout, which had required adults to submit video selfies or government ID documents and drew criticism over data‑privacy concerns.

The new approach replaces the more intrusive verification process with a less burdensome, algorithmic method that relies on existing account data. By doing so, Discord aims to balance compliance with age‑restriction laws while addressing user privacy. The update is part of the company’s broader effort to refine its moderation tools and protect younger users on its platform.