Discord users warn of age verification scams ahead of new security measures next month

Discord users were recently hit with some unexpected news. Starting in March, the platform will begin rolling out stricter age verification measures. Users who want full access to age-restricted channels, sensitive content, and fewer safeguards in direct messages will need to verify that they are adults. This could involve either a face scan or an ID check.

Discord has said it will use a mix of AI systems and human review to determine whether users meet age requirements, as well as for determining which content or servers should be deemed 18+. Until someone verifies their age, they may be blocked from viewing such content. The company says this move is meant to improve safety and protect younger users. However, as often happens with major platform changes, scammers are already trying to take advantage of the situation.

Discord users are getting suspicious DMs

The community manager of Path to Menzoberranzan (an upcoming Baldur’s Gate 3 mod) recently warned members in its official Discord server that fake age verification messages are circulating. These messages are designed to look official and urgent, and they claim that users must verify their age immediately to continue accessing certain content.

The scam typically appears as a direct message. It may include a sensitive content warning and a button labeled “Verify age group” or something similar. At first glance, it can look legitimate, especially since Discord has already confirmed that age verification is coming soon. However, these messages are not from Discord and are likely phishing attempts.

If a user clicks the link, they may be redirected to a fake website that looks like Discord’s login page. Entering account details there could give scammers full access to the account. In some cases, the link could also lead to malicious downloads or other security risks.

It’s important to remember that Discord will not handle age verification through random direct messages. Official verification steps will take place inside the app, through proper settings menus and verified prompts. If you receive a message asking you to verify your age through an external link, do not click it.