Discord Breach Exposes User Data, Including Government IDs
URGENT UPDATE: A significant data breach at Discord has compromised sensitive user information, including government IDs required for age verification. The breach was confirmed earlier today, following an attack on one of Discord’s third-party customer service partners by an “unauthorized party” attempting to extort a financial ransom.
The incident raises immediate concerns as hackers accessed data shared with Discord’s Customer Support and Trust & Safety teams. Affected users can expect an email notification detailing the breach, which may include personal information such as names, Discord usernames, email addresses, payment types, and the last four digits of credit card numbers. Crucially, a limited number of government ID images, including passports and driver’s licenses, were also at risk.
Discord reassured users that no passwords or authentication data were compromised, but emphasized the potential impact of this breach on user privacy. The company has already revoked access for the affected customer support partner to prevent further incidents.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: If you have recently shared information with Discord’s Customer Support, you may be impacted. The company warns that users whose IDs were accessed will receive specific notifications in the coming days.
This breach follows only six months after Discord implemented stricter age verification measures in regions like the UK, spurred by the UK Online Safety Act. In response to these regulations, users have found workarounds, including using the photo mode in Death Stranding, to bypass age restrictions.
The implications of this breach extend beyond individual user data, highlighting widespread frustrations and concerns regarding the security of sensitive information shared with digital platforms. Users are encouraged to monitor their email for communications from Discord and consult resources from the IRS or NCSC regarding identity theft and data breaches.
As the situation develops, keep an eye on updates about how Discord will address this significant breach and its impact on user trust. The urgency of safeguarding personal data has never been clearer, and this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in sharing sensitive information online.
Stay informed about the latest developments as more details emerge.
