TRENTON, NJ — In a significant legal action aimed at protecting children online, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has filed a lawsuit against Discord, the popular messaging platform, accusing the company of deceptive and unconscionable business practices that jeopardize the safety of young users. The lawsuit, filed on April 17, 2025, follows a multiyear investigation by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs and alleges that Discord’s safety features are insufficient and easily bypassed, exposing children to potential harm. WIRED+2People.com+2The Verge+2
🚨 Allegations Against Discord
The lawsuit claims that Discord misrepresented its safety controls, particularly concerning direct messaging features, which purported to filter inappropriate content aimed at children. Despite prohibiting users under 13, Discord allegedly failed to adequately protect young users from predators and explicit content, enabling criminal activities such as sexual exploitation and sextortion. People.com+1WIRED+1
Specific criticisms include:
- Weak Age Verification: Discord’s age verification process reportedly relies on users entering their birthdate, a method that can be easily circumvented.The Verge
- Inadequate Messaging Filters: The app’s default settings allegedly allow children to receive unmonitored messages from friends, increasing exposure to inappropriate content.The Verge
- Lack of Robust Safety Features: Despite claims of enhanced safety measures, the lawsuit argues that Discord’s protections are inconsistent and insufficient compared to those implemented in other countries. WIRED
🛡️ Broader Implications for Online Safety
This legal action is part of a broader effort by New Jersey to hold social media platforms accountable for the safety of young users. Previously, Attorney General Platkin has led lawsuits against other tech giants, including TikTok and Meta, for practices that allegedly harm the mental health and safety of children and teens. New Jersey Office of Attorney General+1WIRED+1New Jersey Office of Attorney General+3New Jersey Office of Attorney General+3New Jersey Office of Attorney General+3
The state’s commitment to protecting children online is reflected in its ongoing initiatives to enforce consumer protection laws and ensure that digital platforms uphold their promises regarding user safety. New Jersey Office of Attorney General
⚖️ Discord’s Response
In response to the lawsuit, Discord has denied the allegations, asserting its commitment to user safety and expressing surprise at the legal action. The company maintains that it is dedicated to providing a safe environment for its users and is reviewing the lawsuit to determine the appropriate course of action. People.com
📌 What This Means for Parents and Guardians
For parents and guardians in New Jersey and beyond, this lawsuit underscores the importance of actively monitoring children’s online activities. It’s crucial to:
- Review and Adjust Privacy Settings: Regularly check and update the privacy settings on all digital platforms your child uses.
- Educate About Online Safety: Discuss the potential risks of online interactions and encourage open communication about their digital experiences.
- Utilize Parental Controls: Implement parental control tools and apps to help manage and monitor your child’s online presence.
As the legal proceedings unfold, this case may set a precedent for how social media platforms are held accountable for the safety of their youngest users.
Stay Informed: For updates on this case and other child safety initiatives, visit the New Jersey Office of Attorney General’s website.New Jersey Office of Attorney General