1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Discord's recent announcement regarding their new "teen-by-default" settings, which will be implemented globally starting in March. This policy automatically sets all new and existing Discord accounts to teen-friendly security settings, regardless of the user's actual age. While the intention to protect younger users is commendable, the implementation raises significant concerns about privacy, user autonomy, and potential misuse. Here are some key issues with Discord's new policy: Privacy Concerns: The requirement for age verification through video selfies or identity documents raises serious privacy concerns. Although Discord claims that these methods are privacy-forward, the potential for misuse or data breaches is significant. Users may feel uncomfortable sharing sensitive information, and there is always a risk of data leaks or unauthorized access. User Autonomy: Automatically setting all accounts to teen-friendly settings infringes on the autonomy of adult users. Adults should have the right to choose their own privacy and security settings without being forced into a one-size-fits-all approach. This policy assumes that all users are underage until proven otherwise, which is both intrusive and presumptuous. Age Inference Model: The implementation of an "age inference model" that analyzes user activity to determine age is particularly concerning. This model could lead to false positives or negatives, resulting in unfair restrictions or unnecessary exposure to sensitive content. Additionally, the constant monitoring of user activity raises ethical questions about surveillance and data privacy. Potential for Misuse: There is a risk that this policy could be misused by malicious actors. For example, identity documents could be stolen or used fraudulently, and video selfies could be exploited for identity theft or other malicious purposes. I urge you to take action to address these concerns and ensure that Discord's policies respect user privacy and autonomy. Here are some steps that could be taken: Legislative Oversight: Introduce legislation that requires companies like Discord to obtain explicit consent from users before implementing such invasive policies. This legislation should also mandate transparency in data collection and usage practices. Regulatory Review: Conduct a regulatory review of Discord's age verification methods to ensure they comply with existing privacy laws and regulations. This review should include input from privacy experts and user advocacy groups. Public Awareness: Raise public awareness about the potential risks and implications of Discord's new policy. Encourage users to be vigilant about their privacy and to demand more transparent and user-friendly policies from tech companies. User Empowerment: Advocate for policies that empower users to control their own privacy settings and data. This includes providing clear and accessible options for users to opt out of invasive age verification methods. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to your response and any actions you may take to address these concerns.