**Discord Goes into Damage Control Mode Over New Age Verification Requirements**
The gaming platform, popular among gamers and online communities, has been at the center of controversy after announcing new age-gating rules. In an effort to calm the storm, Discord has issued a revised statement assuring users that the "vast majority" will not be affected by the changes.
**The Initial Backlash**
On February 9, Discord announced its plans to implement age verification requirements for users who want to access certain features on the platform. The move sparked widespread criticism and calls to boycott the company's paid Nitro subscriptions. Many users expressed concerns that the new rules would infringe on their right to anonymity and raise questions about data privacy.
**The Damage Control Mode**
Just a day later, Discord returned with an updated statement and FAQs to clarify its position on the new age verification requirements. According to the company, most users will not be affected by the changes as its AI-powered inference model will accurately estimate their age in the vast majority of cases.
**How It Works**
Discord's AI inference model uses machine learning algorithms to guess a user's age based on their behavior and interactions with the platform. If the model estimates an age of 18 or higher, users will not be required to upload any sensitive data. However, if the estimate is lower than 18, users may be asked to provide facial scans or government-issued ID to access certain features.
**The Controversy Persists**
Despite Discord's efforts to reassure users, many remain skeptical and concerned about their data security. The company has faced criticism for already surveilling its users to build an anonymous profile, which some fear may be used for monetization purposes. Additionally, the recent hack of a Discord vendor last year saw age verification materials, including photos of users' faces, obtained by malicious actors.
**Impact on Users and Revenue**
The backlash against Discord's new rules has been significant, with some diehard users claiming to cancel their subscriptions and servers. The company's main source of revenue, paid memberships, is also under scrutiny. While it remains unclear how many users will actually shift away from the platform, one thing is certain: Discord's damage control mode will need to be more convincing to alleviate concerns and regain user trust.
**What's Next**
As the controversy continues to unfold, it's uncertain whether Discord's efforts to reassure users will ultimately succeed. One thing is clear, however: the gaming platform must address the concerns of its users and provide a clear explanation for its new age verification requirements to restore confidence in its operations.
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