What happens to my digital profiles when I die?

You may soon be embarking on your well-deserved summer breaks, perhaps even for the first time in years. I hope you have a wonderful time and create some fantastic new memories, whatever you decide to do. In years gone by, one of the must-have items for packing in the suitcase was the trusty disposable camera! For, without the disposable camera (and extra spool for big occasions), you would immediately lose the ability to reminisce and flick through that classic photo wallet.

Of course, technology has moved on since then and such cameras are no longer essential items – our personal phones and tablets have resolved that. Neither do the photo wallets get pulled out as the best photos and videos can be instantly added to your online ‘story’, ‘album’ or ‘feed’ for sharing with whomever you wish. However, a question that arises more and more is what happens to this digital content after you die. Profiles can become deactivated and content terminated, without little empathy for the precious memories stored here.

It is with this thought in mind that STEP has launched its latest campaign to increase public awareness of the need to make plans for digital possessions and memories. STEP is a global professional body comprising lawyers, accountants, trustees and other practitioners that help families plan for their futures.

STEP suggests some simple actions people can take to ensure these aren’t lost or inaccessible in the event of death or incapacity, including updating your legacy settings and talking to your loved ones about your preferences. You may even wish to go even further by appointing a Digital Executor in your Will, devising a ‘memorandum’ for your digital assets or adopting a password vault for digital accounts.

I would encourage everybody to visit www.memories.step.org or get in touch if you want further advice on securing your digital estate.