As technology evolves, new platforms for social interaction continually emerge. One such platform is Discord, which has gained popularity, particularly among gamers. While Discord offers many positive features, it’s essential for parents and carers to understand its potential risks and how we can respond.
In this blog we explore the steps we can take to keep children and young people safe on Discord. You can also download our infographic to share within your school community at the end of this post:
What is Discord?
Discord is a communication platform originally designed for gamers but has since expanded to serve a broad range of communities. It allows users to create or join servers—virtual spaces where they can chat via text, voice, or video. Each server can be divided into different channels, which can be public or private, and users can participate in discussions, share content, and engage in various activities.
What are the key features of Discord?
- Text and Voice Channels: Discord provides both text and voice channels within servers. Users can engage in real-time conversations, share media, and participate in voice chats.
- Private Messaging: Users can send direct messages to one another, including multimedia content.
- Customizable Servers: Server owners can customize their servers with different roles and permissions, control access, and moderate content.
What are the potential risks of Discord?
- Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Due to its open nature, Discord can sometimes expose users to inappropriate or harmful content, including explicit material, hate speech, or online bullying.
- Privacy Concerns: As with any platform, there are risks associated with sharing personal information. Users might inadvertently share sensitive data or encounter individuals seeking to exploit them.
- Unfiltered Communication: Public servers and open channels can expose users to unfiltered communication from strangers, which might include offensive interactions.
Action Steps for Parents and Carers:
1. Set Up Parental Controls and Privacy Settings
- Adjust Privacy Settings: Encourage your child to configure their privacy settings to restrict who can send them messages and invite them to servers. They can set their account to “Friends Only” for direct messages and server invitations.
- Monitor Server Membership: Check the servers your child is part of. Ensure that they are in appropriate communities and that their interactions are monitored.
2. Educate About Online Safety
- Talk About How to Behave Online: Have conversations with your child about the importance of not sharing personal information and how they can recognise potential online threats. Teach them to be cautious about the content they post and the people they interact with.
- Promote Reporting and Blocking: Make sure your child knows how to report inappropriate behavior and block users who make them uncomfortable.
3. Encourage Responsible Use
- Set Boundaries: Establish rules for when and how your child can use Discord. Encourage them to use it in moderation and to avoid using it late at night.
- Be Involved: Engage with your child about their online activities. Ask them about who they interact with, and their experiences on the platform. Being involved helps you understand their online world better.
4. Use Discord’s Built-in Tools
- Server Moderation: Discord provides moderation tools that can help manage and filter content within servers. These tools can be utilised by server owners to create safer environments.
- Safety Center: Direct your child to Discord’s Safety Center, which offers resources and tips for managing privacy and safety on the platform.
If you would like to access more online safety resources for parents and carers, we have a whole host of resources available in our Parent Zone Online Safety Resource Hub.
Download What Parents Need to Know About Discord Infographic Here
Conclusion
Discord offers a dynamic and interactive platform for communication and community-building. By understanding its features and potential risks, you can better safeguard your child’s online experience. Setting appropriate boundaries, educating your child about online safety, and utilizing available tools are key steps in ensuring a positive and secure environment for their online interactions.
A great way of raising the profile of online safety within your school community is through arranging training and enrichment for students and teachers. At OpenView Education we specialise in providing interactive online safety workshops and training.
To book a workshop for your school get in touch with us at info@openvieweducation.co.uk or call us on 0207 459 4473.
