Important Photos, Emails, and Accounts Could Be Locked: Experts Warn About This Setting

Important Photos, Emails, and Accounts Could Be Locked: Experts Warn About This Setting

Experts are urging people to act now to protect their digital content before it's lost forever.

Many online accounts, including those holding family photos, personal emails, and financial information, could be locked forever if key settings or actions are overlooked. A recent survey revealed that most people haven't planned for what will happen to their digital assets after they pass away.

Photos, emails, and social media accounts are often difficult for loved ones to access. For example, Microsoft requires a court order to retrieve a deceased person's emails or OneDrive files. Without planning, a person's digital legacy can be permanently locked away, out of reach for family members.

According to the survey, three-quarters of respondents have done nothing to secure their digital content for the future. Only 20% have shared instructions for accessing their online accounts, and a mere 3% have included digital assets in their will.

This lack of preparation can result not only in the loss of precious memories but also in financial hardship, especially if the deceased had a significant social media following, like influencers.

Consumer advocacy group "Which?" is encouraging people to plan ahead for their digital accounts. They recommend sharing login details with trusted loved ones or leaving clear instructions for account management. They also call on governments and tech companies to simplify the process of managing digital assets, so grieving families aren't burdened with complex legal issues.

Some platforms are already addressing this. Facebook allows users to set up a memorial page where friends can continue to share memories. Apple's "Legacy Contact" feature gives a designated person access to photos and documents with a special key and a death certificate.

Experts emphasize that planning for your digital legacy is as essential as traditional inheritance. As technology increasingly permeates daily life, neglecting to manage your online assets could mean losing them forever. Whether or not you choose to take action determines if your digital accounts will be accessible to loved ones or die with you.