Digital legacy management refers to the process of organizing and handling one’s digital assets, online accounts, and digital presence after their death. As more aspects of our lives move online, managing digital assets and ensuring their proper handling and disposition has become an important consideration. Here are some key aspects of digital legacy management:
- Digital Executor or Power of Attorney: Appointing a digital executor or giving a power of attorney specifically for digital assets can be helpful. This person should be someone you trust and who has the technical knowledge to manage your digital accounts and assets according to your wishes.
- Privacy Considerations: Consider your privacy preferences for your digital assets after death. Determine whether you want your accounts to be deleted, memorialized, or passed on to loved ones. Some individuals prefer to have their digital presence preserved as a memorial, while others may want accounts deleted entirely.
- Digital Assets: Digital assets encompass various types of online accounts, files, and content that have value or sentimental importance. This can include email accounts, social media profiles, online banking and investment accounts, cloud storage, digital photos and videos, intellectual property, cryptocurrencies, and more.
- Digital Estate Planning: Digital estate planning involves creating a plan to manage and distribute digital assets after death. It may include designating a digital executor, who is responsible for carrying out the individual’s wishes regarding their digital assets, or incorporating instructions for digital assets into a broader estate plan.
- Terms of Service and Digital Policies: Understand the terms of service and digital policies of the online platforms and service providers you use. Some platforms have specific policies or procedures for managing accounts after death. Familiarize yourself with these and consider incorporating them into your digital estate plan.
- Legacy Contact or Inactive Account Manager: Some social media platforms provide features like a “legacy contact” or “inactive account manager.” These allow you to designate a person who can manage or memorialize your account in the event of your death. Explore the options available on the platforms you use and decide whether to utilize these features.
- Inventory and Documentation: Start by creating an inventory of your digital assets, including a list of accounts, login credentials, and any important files or data. Keep this information securely stored, either physically or through a password manager, and make sure a trusted person knows where to find it.
- Legal and Professional Advice: Seek legal advice from an attorney specializing in estate planning or digital estate management to ensure your digital legacy plan aligns with relevant laws and regulations. They can guide you through the process and help address any legal complexities that may arise.