Discord has become a go-to platform for gamers, communities, and even businesses to communicate through text, voice, and video. While its interface is sleek and user-friendly, some users want more customization options. That’s where BetterDiscord comes into play — a popular third-party modification that enables added themes, plugins, and tweaks. But the real question users face is: Is BetterDiscord safe to use? This article dives deep into BetterDiscord’s safety, functionality, and potential risks.
TL;DR
BetterDiscord offers enhanced customization and added features not available in the official Discord app. However, it’s not officially supported by Discord and poses potential security and account risks. While many use it safely, there are inherent dangers, particularly with unverified plugins or violating Discord’s Terms of Service. Use with caution and be informed about what you’re installing.
What Is BetterDiscord?
BetterDiscord is a client modification for Discord, allowing users to extensively customize their experience using custom themes and plugins. These can range from UI changes like dark modes and transparent backgrounds to functional plugins that add utilities like message logging or Spotify integration.
- Themes: Visual modifications to change how Discord looks.
- Plugins: Add new features such as auto-replies, custom emojis, or enhanced notifications.
- Custom CSS: More advanced users can directly modify the appearance using CSS.
Is BetterDiscord Officially Supported?
No, BetterDiscord is not officially supported by Discord. In fact, its usage is a violation of Discord’s Terms of Service. This means if you’re using BetterDiscord, you could theoretically face account warnings or bans — although instances of bans for BetterDiscord alone are rare.
According to Discord’s guidelines, modifying the client is considered against policy as it may interfere with functionality or pose security risks.
What Does Discord Say?
Here’s an excerpt from Discord’s policy:
“Don’t modify the client. Making unauthorized changes to the Discord client is against our Terms of Service and can result in your account being disabled.”
This illustrates that while many users continue to use BetterDiscord without immediate consequences, it does carry a risk in terms of your account’s standing with Discord.
Is BetterDiscord Safe to Use?
Let’s break down the safety aspects of using BetterDiscord into several categories:
1. Security of Your Account
Because BetterDiscord is unofficial, there is no guarantee that it is secure. The standard installation files from the BetterDiscord official website are usually safe. However, third-party plugins and themes carry risks. Many are created by independent developers and not vetted with the same scrutiny as open-source applications, allowing the potential for malicious code.
Risks include:
- Malicious plugins stealing login tokens
- Unauthorized access to messages
- Excessive data usage or performance issues
Tip: Only download themes and plugins from reputable sources, and read user reviews or discussions before using them.
2. Stability Issues
Add-ons and unofficial mods can interfere with Discord’s updates and performance. New Discord versions can break BetterDiscord functionality, leading to crashes or bizarre UI behavior. If you’re relying on Discord for professional communication or moderation, such instability might be unacceptable.
3. Privacy Concerns
Any third-party tool that interacts with your communication platform bears a privacy risk. Although BetterDiscord itself is open-source and transparent in development, some plugins may include code that could monitor your activity — especially if sourced from dubious websites. There have been instances of plugins logging user data or injecting ads.
4. Is It a Virus?
No, BetterDiscord itself is not a virus. However, antivirus programs might flag it as suspicious due to the way it integrates with the Discord client. This is typically a false positive, but it highlights the intrusive nature of the mod.
How to Use BetterDiscord Safely
If you’re set on trying the features BetterDiscord offers, safety should be your top priority. Here’s how to reduce the risk:
- Only download from the official site: Visit betterdiscord.app. Avoid sketchy third-party sources.
- Avoid unknown plugins: Stick to popular, highly rated plugins and inspect the code if possible.
- Update regularly: Keep both Discord and BetterDiscord updated to ensure compatibility and security fixes.
- Use a second account: If you’re experimenting, create a backup Discord account so your main one isn’t jeopardized.
- Read plugin documentation: Understand what a plugin does before installing it — always.
Can You Be Banned for Using BetterDiscord?
This is a common fear among users. Technically, yes, you can be banned. But in practice, Discord rarely enforces bans solely based on BetterDiscord use unless it results in abusive behavior or harmful plugin usage. However, Discord has previously disabled user accounts found modifying the client in ways that compromise its operation or others’ safety.
Scenarios where accounts are more likely to be banned include:
- Using plugins that circumvent Discord permissions (like seeing deleted messages)
- Spamming or automated message bots
- Breaching user privacy or terms through malicious plugins
Alternatives to BetterDiscord
If you’re worried about safety but still want advanced customization, consider some safer alternatives:
- Powercord: Another Discord client mod focused on power users and developers. Like BetterDiscord, it is unsupported officially.
- Discord Themes via User CSS Extensions: Use browser-based tools like Stylus (for Discord Web) to apply CSS changes without modifying the app.
- Use Discord Bots for Added Functionality: Many features people install via plugins can be done using Discord bots — legally and safely.
Final Verdict
So, is BetterDiscord safe to use? The answer depends on how you use it and your risk tolerance.
Pros:
- Rich customization not available in standard Discord
- Vibrant community and plugin ecosystem
- Generally stable with routine updates
Cons:
- Violates Discord’s Terms of Service
- Potential for account suspension
- Risk of malicious plugins or data compromise
If you value creative control and added functionality, BetterDiscord can be a fun and powerful tool used responsibly. But if your main concern is security and compliance, you may want to skip it or explore less risky alternatives. Ultimately, it’s about informed choices — know what you’re installing and where it comes from.
Stay safe and always prioritize your digital security, especially on platforms where your communication and online identity are at stake.