Discord

Parents need to know that Discord is a voice- and text-chat tool with a significant gamer presence. Its developers created it to replace other voice-over-internet protocol (VOIP) apps that gamers use to talk to each other in real time while they play games, especially MMOs (massively multiplayer online games). People with other interests now use the app, too. Users can log in with a username, and they can add friends, join a server, and chat by logging in with a code provided from an email invitation or from a real-life friend. People can send direct messages to each other, chat, and talk or listen in larger group chats. Using a feature that scans for people you know when adding friends (with location features turned on) lets you find users who are near you. In recent years, Discord has made some moves to reduce the amount of adult content – including settings that allow all direct messages kids receive to automatically be scanned and deleted if they contain explicit content, and friend requests can be limited to people they share a server with, and presumably would know. Users who are under 18 also can't view NSFW communities -- although if kids enter an older age when registering, that won't apply. While there are good features available for opting in to conversations, and some age-based controls that can help keep kids from accessing over-18 content, the app is primarily geared toward adults. As you might find on any social network, there are occasional issues with things like abusive language. Also, though the app doesn't generate iffy content, players may discuss mature games and other subjects, so sex, violence, and substances can potentially be a part of the conversation. If you're going to let your younger teen use it, check out these tips around how to use the settings wisely. Read the app's privacy policy to find out about the types of information collected and shared.