The ongoing trend of leaving a digital legacy

The ongoing trend of leaving a digital legacy
By the end of this century, the number of dead people on the popular social media network, Facebook, is expected to outnumber living members – turning it into the world’s biggest ‘virtual graveyard’.

Additionally, a recent YouGov survey revealed that 26% of people would like the content of their social media accounts to pass to their loved ones once they have died. The survey showed that 67% of respondents wanted their social media accounts taken offline after their death and only 7% wanted them to remain online.

Due to the strong interest in social media and our ‘online life’, the trend of people looking to leave farewell messages to their loved ones via various social networks or online platforms is becoming more common.

Digital legacies can cause issues linked to privacy rules and data protection regulations, highlighting the question of who ‘owns’ your virtual life. Online assets are being viewed as an increasingly important subject and many people are now including clauses about them in their Wills. It is not clear what happens to data collected during a lifetime after someone passes away, which could potentially cause upset to family members if there is any uncertainty.

It is important to discuss your wishes regarding your online accounts with your Executor so that your final wishes are carried out, regardless of your intentions.

Contact us today for more information on digital legacies.

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