Understanding Digital Legacies: What They Are and How to Create One
In today’s increasingly connected world, our lives are lived both offline and online. From social media profiles and email accounts to digital photo albums and online banking, we amass a significant digital footprint over time. But what happens to all this information when we die?
This is where the concept of a digital legacy becomes essential.
What Is a Digital Legacy?
A digital legacy refers to the digital information that remains after a person passes away. It includes all your online accounts, digital assets, and the content you’ve created or shared online. This might involve:
- Social media profiles (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, LinkedIn)
- Email accounts
- Cloud storage (e.g. Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox)
- Digital photos and videos
- Online subscriptions
- Websites or blogs
- Cryptocurrency wallets
- Online banking or investment accounts
- E-commerce profiles (eBay, Amazon, Etsy)
Without clear instructions, these accounts can remain active long after someone has died, creating both practical and emotional challenges for loved ones.
Why Is a Digital Legacy Important?
There are several reasons why planning your digital legacy is important:
- Security: Unattended accounts can be vulnerable to hacking or identity theft.
- Closure: Family and friends may wish to access digital memories or close down accounts.
- Legal and financial implications: Some digital assets, like cryptocurrency or domain names, may hold value and should be included in estate planning.
- Respecting your wishes: You may have specific preferences for how your online presence should be managed after your death.
How to Create a Digital Legacy
Planning your digital legacy doesn’t need to be complicated. Here are some key steps to help you get started:
- Take Inventory of Your Digital Assets
Make a comprehensive list of all your digital accounts and assets. Include login details, where possible, but keep this information stored securely. Think about:- Devices (phones, tablets, computers)
- Email addresses and usernames
- Passwords and two-factor authentication
- Cloud services, photo libraries, and digital wallets
- Decide What Should Happen to Each Account
Would you prefer some accounts to be deleted? Should others be preserved as memorials? For example, Facebook allows users to designate a “Legacy Contact” to manage your memorialised profile. Think about what content you want to pass on, and what you’d rather have erased. - Appoint a Digital Executor
A digital executor is someone you trust to manage your online accounts according to your wishes. This can be the same person as the executor of your will, but it doesn’t have to be. Ensure they are aware of their responsibilities and where to find your digital legacy instructions. - Store Information Securely
Avoid writing passwords directly into your will, as it becomes a public document after probate. Instead, store sensitive login information in a secure password manager or encrypted file, and include access details in your will or a letter of wishes. - Make It Legal
In the UK, digital assets are not yet consistently recognised in law, but including them in your will can help guide your executor and prevent disputes. Consult a solicitor with experience in digital estates to ensure your wishes are properly documented. - Review and Update Regularly
Just as you would with a traditional will, review your digital legacy regularly to ensure it reflects your current online presence and preferences.
Summary
Our digital lives are just as real as our physical ones. Creating a digital legacy is a thoughtful, practical step that can ease the burden on your loved ones and ensure your digital footprint is managed in line with your values.
As we continue to live, work and connect online, planning your digital legacy is no longer optional — it’s a vital part of modern estate planning.