Discord's New Age Verification System: A Deep Dive

Discord is introducing a new age verification system that requires users to take a "video selfie" to check their age. This feature is powered by a company called k-ID, and it's meant to help Discord deal with the large number of underage ban appeals they receive. In this article, we'll explore how this system works, its potential implications, and the concerns surrounding it.

Introduction to the Age Verification System

This is a screenshot of the age verification popup on Discord.

The age verification system is a new feature on Discord that allows users to verify their age using a video selfie. This feature is specifically designed for underage ban appeals, where users can appeal a ban by providing a video selfie to verify their age.

How the Age Verification System Works

To use the age verification system, users need to take a video selfie, which will be analyzed by k-ID's AI-powered system to determine their age. The system will provide instructions to the user, such as finding good lighting, removing any obstructions, and following specific guidelines to ensure accurate results. The analysis process typically takes up to 1 minute, and the results will be used to verify the user's age.

This is a screenshot of the video selfie instructions.

Concerns and Implications

There are several concerns surrounding the age verification system, including the potential for errors, biases, and privacy issues. The system relies on AI-powered facial age estimation, which may not always be accurate, particularly for users with certain facial features or skin tones. Additionally, there are concerns about the security and storage of user data, as well as the potential for the system to be tricked or bypassed.

This is a screenshot of the k-ID company website.

k-ID Company and Facial Age Estimation

k-ID is a company that provides age verification solutions using AI-powered facial age estimation. The company's system analyzes facial features to estimate a user's age, and it's used by Discord to verify user ages. However, there are concerns about the accuracy and reliability of this system, as well as the potential for biases and errors.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This is a screenshot of the age verification conclusion.

In conclusion, Discord's new age verification system is a complex issue with both positive and negative implications. While it's designed to help Discord deal with underage ban appeals, there are concerns about its accuracy, security, and potential biases. As with any new technology, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons and consider the potential risks and benefits before making a decision. Ultimately, the decision to use the age verification system is up to each individual user, and it's crucial to be informed and aware of the potential implications.