In today’s digital world, we accumulate a vast online presence—social media profiles, emails, cloud storage, digital banking, and more. While we often plan for our physical assets, many people overlook what happens to their digital footprint after they pass away.
At Virgo Funerals, we believe that planning ahead for your digital assets is just as important as organising your personal affairs. Taking proactive steps ensures that your online presence is managed according to your wishes, helping to protect your privacy and ease the burden on your loved ones.
Why Planning Your Digital Legacy Matters
When someone passes away, their digital accounts do not automatically disappear. If left unmanaged, they can become vulnerable to hacking, identity theft, or unauthorised access. Additionally, family members may struggle to retrieve sentimental items such as emails, photos, and important documents stored online.
By planning ahead, you can:
✔ Ensure loved ones can access important files and accounts.
✔ Prevent digital accounts from being misused or compromised.
✔ Protect sensitive personal information.
✔ Decide whether you want accounts deleted, memorialised, or transferred.
Steps to Manage Your Digital Assets Before You Pass
1. Make a List of Your Digital Accounts
Start by documenting all of your online accounts, including:
- Email accounts(Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo)
- Social media(Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter)
- Online banking and financial accounts
- Cloud storage services(Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud)
- Subscription services(Netflix, Spotify, Amazon)
- Cryptocurrency and digital wallets
This list will help your loved ones locate and manage your digital presence when needed.
2. Assign a Digital Executor
Just as you may appoint an executor for your will, you can assign a trusted person to handle your digital assets. This person can help manage, delete, or transfer your online accounts according to your wishes.
3. Use Legacy Contact Options on Key Platforms
Some online services provide legacy contact features, allowing you to name someone who can manage your accounts after your passing:
- Facebook: Allows users to assign a Legacy Contact to manage a memorialised account or request deletion.
- Google: Offers an Inactive Account Manager tool to give a chosen person access after inactivity.
- Apple: Introduced Digital Legacy, allowing family members to access iCloud data.
By setting up these permissions in advance, you ensure that your accounts are handled as you wish.
4. Securely Store Passwords
Since many digital accounts are password-protected, it’s essential to ensure that someone you trust can access them when needed. Options include:
- Using a password manager like LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden.
- Writing down essential login details and storing them in a secure location(e.g., a safe or with your solicitor).
- Providing access instructions in your legal will or estate plan.
5. Outline Your Digital Wishes
Decide what should happen to each of your digital accounts. Some questions to consider:- Do you want social media accounts memorialised or deleted?
- Should emails and digital documents be passed on to family members?
- Are there personal photos or videos that should be saved and shared?
Documenting these wishes ensures that your online presence is handled according to your preferences.
What Happens If You Don’t Plan?
Without a digital estate plan, your family may face challenges such as:
❌ Locked accounts – Some platforms require legal proof before granting access.
❌ Loss of sentimental content – Photos, messages, and documents may become inaccessible.
❌ Ongoing subscriptions – Uncancelled services can continue to charge fees.
❌ Security risks – Hackers or scammers could gain access to dormant accounts.
By making arrangements now, you can protect your digital legacy and spare your loved ones unnecessary stress.
Final Thoughts
Just as we plan for our physical possessions, it’s crucial to plan for our digital presence. Taking simple steps today can ensure that your accounts and online assets are handled smoothly when the time comes.
At Virgo Funerals, we are here to offer guidance and support through every stage of funeral and legacy planning. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help.
