Dear Discord Developers, are you familiar with the Discord Developer Policy, which is a set of rules that you must follow when developing and operating apps on the Discord platform?

Discord is a place where developers can unleash their creativity and provide great experiences to users. However, in order to maintain the health of the Discord community and protect users, it is essential to understand and abide by the developer policy.

This article will provide a clear explanation of the key points of the Discord Developer Policy updated on July 8, 2024.

What is the Discord Developer Policy?

The Discord Developer Policy is part of the Discord Developer Terms of Service (“Developer Terms”) and sets forth the rules regarding access to and use of the API.

Monetization Requirements

If you plan to monetize your app on Discord, you must comply with the Monetization Terms and the Monetization Policy.

In particular, when providing paid content or features, it is important to provide them through Discord’s premium app products and price them at a level that does not exceed the price of other payment methods.

Protecting Discord Users

Discord considers user privacy and safety to be of utmost importance. Therefore, developers must pay attention to the following points:

  • Do not make changes to accounts without the user’s explicit permission.
  • Do not initiate processing on users or servers without prior consent.
  • Do not bypass Discord’s privacy, safety, or security features.
  • Do not ask users to provide sensitive information, such as passwords.
  • Do not contact users without specific consent.
  • Do not target users for advertising or marketing.
  • Do not contact users outside of Discord without specific approval.

Respecting the Discord Platform

Developers are prohibited from the following actions in order to maintain the integrity of the Discord platform:

  • Using the API for dangerous or illegal activities.
  • Developing apps targeted at users under the age of 13.
  • Actions that violate the Discord Community Guidelines.
  • Displaying, posting, or promoting violent or extreme content.
  • Impersonating other apps, Discord employees, or Discord services.
  • Falsifying or modifying engagement for deceptive purposes.
  • Bypassing permanent measures taken by Discord.

Handling of Data

Developers must also be careful about handling API data. API data must be used only for the purpose of providing the stated functionality and must not infringe on user privacy.

Specifically, the following actions are prohibited:

  • Using API data for purposes other than those stated.
  • Using API data for discrimination or consideration of social security eligibility.
  • Disclosing API data to data brokers, advertising networks, etc.
  • Using API data or Discord services for commercial activities.
  • Re-identifying or de-anonymizing API data.
  • Mining or scraping data, content, or information from the Discord service.
  • Using the content of messages obtained through the API for machine learning, etc. without Discord’s permission.

API Limits

Discord may set limits on the use of the API. Developers must comply with these limits and not attempt to circumvent them. If you want to use the API beyond the limits, you must obtain Discord’s explicit written consent.

Policy Updates

The Discord Developer Policy may be updated from time to time. Developers must always check the latest information and comply with the policy.

Conclusion

The Discord Developer Policy is a set of rules that you must follow when developing and operating apps on the Discord platform. Developers, please understand the important points introduced in this article and be mindful to develop in accordance with the policy.