Discord actually has over 120 employees, I haven’t updated this article in awhile.
As towards your article, Discord makes almost break-even with Nitro and their employee costs. I have run the numbers using the estimates I have, given I help run one of the largest bots on Discord and work with a few other large developers who helped me put together some data.
Realistically? Discord could function for 5–10 years without making profit beyond their current nitro target, and they plan to expand that through their game store release (Don’t forget they’re VC-backed).
As for stuff transmitted on their platform? it’s up to you what you click. Just don’t click stuff from users you don’t trust and keep a secure password, that’s all it takes to stay safe.
Discord isn’t the bad guy, but they do need to work on their Trust and Safety policies a little bit… which takes time.
Anything else I can help you with?
