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GDPR Compliance Risk

Discord is a US-based service subject to the CLOUD Act. EU organizations using this service risk non-compliance with GDPR data transfer requirements.

Discord logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Discord

🇺🇸Discord · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Discord is a communication platform based in the United States, designed to facilitate voice, video, and text interactions among users. Originally popular among gaming communities, it has expanded to serve a wide range of groups and organizations. Key features include customizable server roles and permissions, which allow for tailored user experiences within communities, and integrated game overlay, enabling seamless communication during gameplay. Discord also offers text and voice channels for structured communication, screen sharing for collaborative activities, and bots for automation and moderation tasks. The platform supports rich presence integration with games, enhancing user interaction by displaying game activity. Community server discovery and promotion are also available, allowing users to find and join servers of interest. Discord operates under US jurisdiction, meaning user data is stored in the US and subject to US data laws, such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. The platform is free to use, with optional paid features available through Discord Nitro, which offers enhanced functionalities. Discord's target audience includes gamers, educators, and various online communities seeking organized communication tools.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Discord

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Discord has become a significant legal risk for EU organizations. The US CLOUD Act gives American authorities the power to access data held by US companies, regardless of where that data is physically stored — even if it's in an EU data center.

While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (DPF) adopted in 2023 provides a new legal basis for transfers, privacy experts and legal scholars have raised concerns about its long-term viability. The framework could face the same fate as its predecessors (Safe Harbor and Privacy Shield), both of which were struck down by the Court of Justice of the EU.

For organizations that want to eliminate compliance risk entirely, switching to a European-based messaging apps is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Discord, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Discord, even if servers are located in Europe.

GDPR Fine Risk

Non-compliant data transfers can result in fines up to 4% of annual global revenue under GDPR Article 83.

EU Alternative Available

2 GDPR-compliant European alternatives available with full EU data residency.

2 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Discord

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Stoat logo

Stoat

🌍

by Stoat

Stoat (formerly Revolt) is an open-source, privacy-focused messaging platform from the United Kingdom. It offers a Discord-like experience with servers, channels, and voice chat, but with full GDPR compliance and EU data hosting. Stoat features customizable servers, role-based permissions, rich media sharing, and end-to-end encryption options. As a self-hostable solution, it gives users complete control over their data. Ideal for communities, teams, and individuals who want a feature-rich chat platform without compromising on privacy.

GDPR CompliantEU-hostedSelf-HostableOpen Source
freemiumMigration:●●●Several weeks, including the wait time for data export

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards.
  • Open source allows for custom modifications and audits.
  • Story-driven chats offer unique, engaging interactions.

Consider

  • Migration may disrupt existing Discord communities.
  • Learning curve for new features like story-driven chats.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Stoat
Element logo

Element

🌍

by Element

Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections.

Open SourceSelf-HostableISO 27001EU-hostedGDPR Compliant
freemiumMigration:●●●Several days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of your Discord setup

Why switch?

  • End-to-end encryption is enabled by default for all chats.
  • Self-hosting allows full control over data and server location.
  • GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection for EU users.

Consider

  • Migration from Discord may require manual transfer of chats and files.
  • Element lacks integrated game overlay for real-time gaming support.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Element

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Discord
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🌍StoatGBYesYesYesfreemium
🌍ElementGBYesYesYesfreemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Discord GDPR compliant?

Discord is a US-based service operated by Discord. While it may have some GDPR compliance measures, as a US company it is subject to the CLOUD Act, which allows US authorities to access data stored by US companies regardless of where the data is physically located. This creates a fundamental conflict with GDPR requirements for data protection.

What are the GDPR risks of using Discord?

The main GDPR risks include: (1) Data transfers to the US may lack adequate protection since the Schrems II ruling invalidated Privacy Shield, (2) US authorities can demand access under the CLOUD Act, (3) Your organization may face GDPR fines up to 4% of annual revenue for non-compliant data transfers, and (4) User consent may not be sufficient to legitimize transfers given the systematic access by US authorities.

What are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Discord?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Discord include Stoat, Element. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

How do I migrate from Discord to a GDPR-compliant alternative?

Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from Discord using their data export tools, (2) Create an account with your chosen EU alternative, and (3) Import your data into the new service. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative to make the switch as smooth as possible.

Can EU companies legally use Discord?

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Discord. While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (2023) provides a new legal basis, its long-term stability is uncertain. Many EU data protection authorities recommend using EU-based alternatives to avoid compliance risks entirely.

Other GDPR Alternatives in Messaging Apps

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Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: January 26, 2026