Discord Launches Global Age Verification with Background “Age Inference” Model
Discord has implemented a new global age verification system aimed at enhancing user safety on its platform. This initiative is particularly focused on creating a secure environment for users aged 13 and above. The age verification process, which is part of a broader strategy known as “age-assured,” will roll out worldwide following its initial phases in the UK and Australia.
Overview of the Age Verification System
The primary goal of Discord’s age verification is to prevent abuse and exploitation within its community. Incidents of child grooming and sexual exploitation on the platform have raised significant concerns. Major reported cases include:
- 35 adult charge cases concerning kidnapping, grooming, or sexual assault linked to Discord, reported in June 2023.
- 165 prosecutions for sharing child sexual exploitative material on the platform.
- An investigation of a Discord channel involved in orchestrating sexual abuse and murder, resulting in the removal of over 34,000 accounts.
Background “Age Inference” Model
A notable feature of the new age verification process is the incorporation of a background “age inference” model. This system is designed to assess whether a user is an adult without necessitating constant age verification. Users will have a choice of methods to verify their age, which may include facial age estimation or submission of identification documents to trusted vendor partners.
Privacy Protections
Discord emphasizes user privacy in the new verification process. The platform has put in place several key privacy protections:
- On-device processing: Video selfies taken for facial age estimation remain on the user’s device.
- Quick deletion: Submitted identity documents are deleted shortly after age confirmation.
- Straightforward verification: Users generally verify their age once, with minimal further requests for information.
- Private status: No other users will see the verification status, ensuring user anonymity.
Impact on User Experience
As part of these changes, default settings will be updated for all users in March 2024. Users must prove they are adults to access certain features. Effective changes include:
- Unblurring sensitive content requires age assurance.
- Access to age-restricted channels and commands will be limited to verified adults.
- DMs from unknown users will be sorted into a separate inbox for adults, providing an extra layer of safety.
Community Engagement
In addition to technological advancements, Discord is forming a “Teen Council.” This group will consist of 10-12 teenagers who will provide insights on the needs and concerns of their age group, ensuring that the platform effectively meets those requirements.
As Discord moves forward with these implementations, the emphasis remains on fostering a secure and supportive environment for its users. The new age verification system, along with the background age inference model, aims to strike a balance between safety and user privacy.
