Fact check: How does the discord id verification process work for KOSA and SCREEN?

1. Summary of the results

Based on the analyses provided, Discord's current ID verification process is not specifically mandated by KOSA or SCREEN, but rather by existing local laws. Discord currently implements age verification through face scan or ID scan options as a one-time requirement for accessing certain features or content ^[1]. This process is currently applicable to users in the United Kingdom due to the UK Online Safety Act requirements ^[1] and is also being experimented with in Australia ^[2].

The verification process is triggered by exposure to sensitive content or attempts to change filter settings, and users who are incorrectly verified can retry or request a manual review ^[2]. Importantly, KOSA does not impose age verification requirements or require platforms to collect more data about users - it only requires platforms to provide safety and privacy protections if they already know a user is underage ^[3].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question assumes a direct connection between Discord's ID verification and KOSA/SCREEN that does not currently exist. Several critical pieces of context are missing:

• Current Discord verification is driven by existing UK and Australian laws, not KOSA, which has not been implemented ^{[1] [2]}
• Age verification will likely be a defining issue in 2025, with courts indicating that strong age verification requirements risk violating free speech unless non-invasive, low-burden methods are used ^[4]
• Privacy advocates argue that age verification laws pose threats to online privacy and may not effectively protect children from accessing adult content ^[5]
• Critics contend that KOSA creates a censorship regime disguised as a 'duty of care' that will suppress lawful speech online, especially for young people ^[6]

Tech companies like Discord would benefit from supporting age verification narratives as it allows them to implement data collection systems while appearing compliant with safety regulations. Politicians supporting KOSA, such as those mentioned in official government sources, benefit from appearing to protect children while potentially expanding regulatory control over online platforms.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question contains a fundamental misconception by implying that Discord's ID verification process is specifically designed for or mandated by KOSA and SCREEN. This creates a false premise that these legislative measures are currently driving Discord's verification requirements.

The question also omits the controversial nature of both the verification process and the legislation. It fails to acknowledge that KOSA is criticized by digital rights organizations as a censorship tool ^[6] and that age verification requirements are viewed by privacy advocates as potentially harmful to user privacy ^[5].

By framing the question as if KOSA and SCREEN directly mandate Discord's current practices, it misleadingly suggests these legislative measures are already in effect and operational, when the evidence shows Discord's current verification is primarily responding to existing UK and Australian regulations rather than these specific US legislative proposals.