Discord is a well-established free app that enables people of all ages to chat via text, voice, or video in real time, often centered around specific interests or gaming.
- Discord is a popular platform within the gaming community that connects people across the globe. It is available for free download on mobile devices, Xboxes, PlayStations, and PCs, enabling connections with both close friends and strangers. The platform is structured into servers, which enable people with shared interests to interact in chat rooms. Some servers are public, allowing anyone to join, while others are private and require an invitation link to join.
- Discord is not as well-known among parents worldwide. Unlike other social media apps that are often blocked, many schools allow access to Discord.
- Over the years, there have been numerous reports of minors engaging in inappropriate interactions with adults on this app. The shared content often includes themes of a sexual, violent, or otherwise concerning nature. Additionally, there have been reports of individuals on this app asking minors for personal information such as their addresses or sexually explicit photos. This is where parent-user dialogue is so deeply needed. Ask your kids what they know about Discord. Have they used it? Why is it better than using another method to connect with friends?
- Discord users have the option to self-report inappropriate servers or conversations, but many children are unaware of these safety measures.
- Discord has teams of moderators responsible for monitoring chat rooms. Their job is to report inappropriate content and take actions such as issuing warnings and suspending users who repeatedly violate Discord’s guidelines.
-iParent101 Team
References
CommonSense Media: Parents’ Ultimate Guide to Discord (2024)