What is Discord?
If your kids are playing video games, they are likely using Discord to communicate with their friends. While gaming is the most popular category for Discord users, you do not have to be on video games to use this app.
According to discord.com, Discord is a “voice, video, and text communication service used by over a hundred million people to hang out and talk with their friends and communities.” You can share images, videos, and GIFs on Discord, as well as direct messages and video chat. Discord requires users to be at least 13 years old, however, like most social media platforms, there is no verification.
Is Discord safe for my kids?
Generally, Discord can be safe to use. However, it is all user-generated content, therefore your child can easily be exposed to inappropriate content (swearing, graphic content, etc.). It is also important to remember predators go where kids are. There have been cases of predators targeting children on Discord. Discord can be dangerous and is not appropriate for children, however, implementing privacy settings and parental monitoring will allow your child to more safely use Discord as a way to communicate with their friends.
How do I update Discord’s privacy settings?
By going to Discord’s User Settings > Privacy and Safety, you will be able to update usage statistics, personalization data, and safe direct messaging. The safe direct messaging feature in Discord will search and delete explicit content within your direct messages automatically.