A recent investigation by Al-Masry Al-Youm revealed that many young people in Egypt are using Discord for gaming, studying, and private conversations. The platform has gained popularity worldwide, with a 159% increase in active users since the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Statista, Discord has become a hub for online communities, with many users joining servers and engaging in discussions.
Expert Hisham Al-Natour, a technology development and artificial intelligence specialist, warns that Discord's open nature poses significant risks. The platform allows users to create free text, voice, and video rooms without requiring permission or revealing their identities. Al-Natour notes that Discord's algorithms work differently from other social media platforms, using interconnected systems to recommend content and increase user engagement.
Al-Natour explains that while Discord does not directly promote inappropriate content, its algorithms can lead to addiction by merging with illicit activities. He notes that users often start in gaming servers, move to general chat rooms, and then join private voice channels and closed channels, where they may be exposed to harmful ideas and behaviors.
The expert criticizes Discord for lacking effective moderation and privacy features, particularly for children and teenagers. Unlike WhatsApp, Discord does not have end-to-end encryption, making users vulnerable to exploitation and harassment by individuals hiding behind pseudonyms. Since the pandemic, Discord has been criticized for ignoring reports and responding only through automated bots.
Al-Natour warns that attempts to block or restrict access to Discord can be circumvented using various methods, including VPNs and software that evade restrictions. This can expose users to greater risks, such as surveillance through cameras or microphones, and the installation of malicious software for blackmail.
To mitigate these risks, Al-Natour suggests using educational routers that limit access to specific websites and set time limits for internet use. He also recommends blocking random server additions and monitoring online activities to prevent exposure to harmful content.
In conclusion, the expert emphasizes the need for greater awareness and caution when using Discord and similar platforms. Parents, educators, and policymakers must work together to protect children and teenagers from the potential dangers of online communication platforms.
Key points
- Discord's algorithms can lead to addiction and exposure to harmful content.
- The platform lacks effective moderation and privacy features, particularly for children and teenagers.
- Educational routers and monitoring online activities can help mitigate the risks associated with Discord.
