You hold the reins when it comes to your personal information and interactions on Discord.
By taking charge of your privacy settings, you can enhance your security and enjoy a more secure experience on the platform. Here are some useful tips to help you get started.
Adjusting your privacy and safety settings on Discord empowers you to manage who can reach out to you, how the platform handles your data, and which messages are filtered for spam.
1 Enable Two-factor Authentication (2FA) on Discord
To protect your Discord account, you must enable Two-factor Authentication (2FA). With the rise of cyber threats, relying solely on a password is no longer sufficient.
By activating 2FA, you add an extra layer of security. This feature requires a second form of verification, typically through email or a mobile app, ensuring that even if someone has your password, they cannot access your account without the secondary code.
Enabling 2FA is simple. Navigate to the “My Account” section in settings and select “Enable Two-Factor Authentication.” Follow the prompts to set up email verification or link your account to an authentication app like Authy or Google Authenticator. These apps generate unique codes every few seconds, which are required to log in.
2 Block People You Don’t Want to Talk To
Blocking someone on Discord prevents them from messaging you, pinging you, adding you as a friend, and seeing your online status or activity. It also hides their messages in any shared servers, reducing their ability to interact with you.
How to block on discord mobile:
Tap their profile image in the server.
Tap the three-dot icon in the top-right corner.
Select Block from the menu.
You should not overestimate the personal information security hosted on Discord. Although Discord safety settings can really improve the situation significantly, you should know the limits of the platform. By the way, the guys from VeePN have done quite an in-depth study on the topic “is Discord safe” and what potential risks there may be. Anyone who understands the importance of cybersecurity on Discord can benefit from useful knowledge and online safety tips.
3 Set Up Discord Privacy
To manage your privacy and safety settings on mobile, open the Discord app and tap your profile image in the bottom-right corner. Next, tap the Settings gear icon in the top-right corner. In Settings, go to Privacy & Safety.
Under the DM Spam Filter section, select Filter All Direct Messages to send potential spam to a separate inbox. Scroll down to Server Privacy Defaults and toggle off Allow Direct Messages From Server Members to block messages from non-friends in new servers you join.
Note, turning off direct messages from non-friends only affects servers you join moving forward. Existing servers will remain unaffected.
To prevent Discord from using your data (like usage patterns, friends, and games) for service improvements and personalization, install a VPN and scroll to the How We Use Your Data section. Toggle off Use Data to Improve Discord and Use Data to Personalize My Discord Experience.
4 Beware of Phishing Attempts
Phishing and social engineering are significant threats to your Discord account’s security. Attackers use these tactics to trick you into revealing personal information or gaining unauthorized access to your account.
Phishing attacks often appear as fake emails, texts, or websites that mimic trustworthy services, aiming to steal your login credentials. Always verify URLs and sender details for authenticity.
Conversely, social engineering involves deceiving individuals to gain access. Attackers may pretend to be friends or Discord support agents, asking for private information. Remember, Discord will never request your password or account details.
To protect yourself:
Double-check URLs and email addresses for oddities.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links and download files from trusted sources only.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
Educate yourself and your community about these threats to help create a safer Discord environment.
5 Don’t Share Sensitive Information
Discord isn’t just for gamers—many use it for work or casual chats. However, it’s crucial to keep certain information private. Never share your password, token, or personal details like addresses or credit card information. Discord lacks end-to-end encryption, so messages could be exposed in a data breach.
Remember, Discord will never ask for this information. If you receive such a request, it’s likely a phishing attempt. Also, be aware that data scrapers have previously collected messages from server chats, so avoid sharing sensitive information on the platform. Stay vigilant and protect your privacy.
6 Don’t Forget to Update Your Software
Maintaining the security and privacy of your Discord account is essential. Here’s how to keep your account safe:
Update Regularly: Always use the latest version of Discord. Updates often include new features, security patches, and bug fixes. Enable automatic updates for your Discord app and devices to ensure continuous protection.
Keep Devices Updated: Regularly update your computer and smartphone with the latest security and operating system upgrades. These updates often include critical patches that protect against potential vulnerabilities.
Using outdated software, including the Discord app and your device’s operating systems, can expose you to security risks. Cybercriminals exploit these vulnerabilities to access accounts and personal data. Stay protected by keeping all software up to date to mitigate these risks.
Conclusion
By implementing these safety measures, you can significantly enhance the security of your Discord account and protect your personal information. Always stay vigilant against potential threats such as phishing attempts and social engineering tactics. Remember to update your software regularly, avoid sharing sensitive information, and utilize features like two-factor authentication to add layers of security.
Discord can be a powerful tool for communication, but taking these proactive steps ensures you enjoy a safer and more secure experience on the platform. Stay informed and prioritize your digital safety to help create a trustworthy community for everyone.
