Discord Distances Itself From Persona Age Verification After User Backlash

Slashdot

by msmash

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Discord has decided to cut ties with its age verification partner, Persona, following significant backlash from users. The decision comes after Discord announced plans to implement global age verification using Persona, which sparked widespread criticism on social media. Users accused the platform of being unclear about how it would handle face scans and ID uploads, leading to concerns over privacy and transparency. Discord's head of product policy confirmed that a limited test of Persona in the UK has ended, with no immediate plans for further testing or implementation. The controversy highlights broader concerns about data privacy and user trust, particularly among younger audiences who frequent platforms like Discord. Critics argue that the partnership with Persona, also used by Reddit and Roblox, raises ethical questions about how personal information is collected and shared. While Discord emphasized that the test was voluntary and focused on verifying ages for alcohol-related content in the UK, users remain skeptical of any mandatory age verification processes globally. This situation underscores the challenges tech companies face when balancing user safety with privacy concerns. The backlash against Persona suggests a growing demand for transparency in how personal data is handled, especially when it involves minors. As platforms like Discord navigate these issues, they must carefully weigh public opinion and regulatory requirements to maintain trust and avoid further scrutiny.

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Originally published on Slashdot on 2/24/2026