What happens to your digital accounts after you die?

The Ultimate Guide To Managing Your Online Presence After Death

Have you ever read birthday notifications on Facebook for people who’ve passed away? Or do you wonder what happens to your eBooks when you die?

Ethan Bennet, a writer for Sonin, talks about the future of your digital data and what you can do to safeguard it. 

The Legal Aspects

If your will includes the right to access your digital assets, it might help your loved ones avoid taking legal action. Ethan says, ‘Globally, we’re in the early stages of laws and policies for preserving your digital assets - but this may soon become an essential element of estate planning.’

If you have an expensive collection of eBooks, check whether the platform lets you create a legacy for others on your death. This may involve a License Transfer Agreement and putting something in your will. 

Google And Facebook

Google has an Inactive Account Manager that gives others access to your data when you die. However, you need to set this up beforehand. 

By turning on the specific feature, you can create a ‘legacy contact’ for Facebook. Alternatively, you can arrange for your account to be deleted when you die. For more details, view the Facebook Help Center.  

Microsoft And Apple

Microsoft accounts are deleted when inactive for more than two years. If your next of kin doesn’t have your access details, only a Court Order will enable them to access your account. 

Ethan says, ‘You can add several legacy contacts to your Apple ID. These people will need your access details and death certificate. If they don’t delete your account, this will occur after three years of inactivity.’

Ethan’s Practical Tips

You could leave a list of all your applications and passwords so your loved ones can access your accounts after your death. However, this would be risky in case of theft. 

Most accounts are non-transferable. Should the companies realize it’s not the owner who’s trying to gain access, they could lock them out or delete the account, so be careful not to trigger security features by trying to log in too many times. 

If it’s specific documents, photos, or videos you’re seeking to preserve, back these up elsewhere (e.g. on an external drive). Setting up an automatic backup system, such as backing up your documents to the Cloud every week, will help you preserve this data for your next of kin.

Ethan says, ‘Document your wishes upfront, whether it’s for your accounts to be deleted or preserved. By appointing a digital executor, you can protect your digital legacy and ensure your wishes are followed.’ 

About Sonin

Sonin is a UK-based modern agency specializing in mobile-first solutions since 2009. Their approach emphasizes understanding clients' needs, close collaboration, and staying ahead with emerging technologies. With a diverse team passionate about technology and user-centric products, Sonin focuses on building valuable, high-quality experiences for their clients.