Popular social media apps used by teens worldwide, such as X (formerly known as Twitter), Reddit, YouTube, and Discord, have implemented new policies requiring users to verify their age. Discord is the latest to implement an ID verification policy for users suspected of being underage, but how do these apps detect underage users?

Beginning in March 2026, Discord will roll out its age verification system, making all user accounts a “teen-by-default” experience unless the user confirms they are an adult.

Many of the verification systems require users to scan a government-issued ID or take a live facial scan. The image is then analyzed by an artificial intelligence program to estimate age or confirm user identity. While these companies say the process is safe and secure, users are concerned about how their information is stored and protected.

“I don’t want anybody really collecting my data, it’s not like I don’t want anybody knowing what I like to do, but I think privacy is a big thing for sure and people definitely deserve to have it,” junior Samantha Heath said.

According to Discord’s official support page, Assurance, the company states that none of the pictures are stored and are directly deleted after your age is confirmed.

Technology and safety experts say the goal of these policies is to reduce exposure to inappropriate content and limit underage access to age-restricted communities, but also for users to inform themselves about the latest privacy policy and understand the way their data is handled.

As more platforms adopt verification tools, students may see additional changes to how they access social media. The balance between personal privacy and online safety will continue to exist as technology continues to evolve.