Minimum age according to Terms of Use: 13+
What is Discord?
Discord is a communication platform allowing users to create or join “servers”—virtual communities for text, voice, and video chats. Initially designed for gamers, it is now widely used for various topics including school, hobbies, art, and casual socializing. Children and teenagers like Discord because it provides a sense of community belonging, but it also presents certain risks—especially if parents aren’t involved.
What parents should watch out for:
Inappropriate and explicit content
Although Discord has behavior guidelines and filters, many servers operate without moderation. Users can easily come across inappropriate photos, videos, or messages that are unsuitable for children.
Direct messages and contact with strangers
Users can send each other private messages (DM/direct message), and if settings are not configured correctly, strangers can directly contact your child. This can lead to unwanted and potentially dangerous contacts.
Risk of online abuse and manipulation
Like other platforms, Discord can be a gathering place for online predators. Individuals posing as peers can easily contact children, gain their trust, and gradually manipulate their behavior—often without parents noticing.
Cyberbullying and group exclusion
Closed groups and disappearing audio/video communications make monitoring difficult and can become spaces where children are insulted, mocked, or socially excluded without parental notice or intervention.
Criminal activities and illegal content
Discord servers have documented cases of hate speech, child grooming, unauthorized sharing of personal data (known as doxxing), and even content promoting violence or extremism.
Privacy concerns
User profiles may include photos, biographies, and even links to other networks. If a child isn’t aware of how much personal information they are sharing, they could easily be exposed to risks.
Advice for parents
Get familiar with Discord Family Center
This optional feature allows you and your child to stay connected while respecting their independence. When activated:
- You receive an in-app dashboard with basic information about activities.
- Weekly summaries are sent via email, including the number of messages and calls, new friends, and active server.
- Both you and your child must activate this feature in the app
Set privacy together
In Discord settings, you can:
- Limit who can send messages and make calls.
- Enable filters that check images in messages (but not text).
- Block unknown users and unwanted friend requests.
Maintain regular conversations
Open dialogues about who your child interacts with online and their online behavior are crucial for preventing issues. Encourage your child to approach you if they feel uncomfortable or confused about something that happened online.
Additional support and reporting
If you are concerned about your child’s online safety:
- Helpline: 0800 200 880
- Report illegal content: www.netpatrola.rs
- Suspicion of online abuse: Contact the police immediately
- Removal of explicit photos: www.ncii.csi.org.rs
- More resources available at: www.cnzd.rs
- Write to us for free psychological and legal support: kontakt@cnzd.rs
Useful links:
