Most people have no plan for digital assets upon death, consumer champion warns

Most people haven't got a clue about what will happen to their digital life after they pass away, leaving pictures and social media pages at risk of vanishing forever, Which? cautions.

Which? is calling on individuals to make sure they set up a digital will for clarity over the fate of their online existence. According to Which?'s findings, 76% of people have no idea what should happen to their digital properties if they die, with just 18% considering to leave instructions for getting into their profiles and 3% mentioning it in their last will.

Which? highlighted concerns particularly around social media profiles which generate income, as there's a "grey area" regarding the future of these earnings once the user has died. While traditional royalties can be handed down, digital assets often don't fall under this category, Which? pointed out.

The consumer watchdog pressed that terms of service for social media could illuminate what happens to revenue-sharing after death, urging users to check and sort this out if it applies to them. Without a proper digital legacy strategy, it can be incredibly tough to get into a loved one's accounts some companies demand a court order for access to private files, while others ask for both a proof of death and evidence of lawful representation, warned the group.

Which? suggests people share their account details with trusted individuals before passing away, including a letter of wishes in their will for digital assets.

Which? magazine editor Harry Rose said: "Our latest research throws into sharp relief the lack of planning the vast majority of people have done for what happens to their digital assets when they die. Whether it's handing over sentimental assets such as photos, or simply enabling a loved one to close down your social media accounts, we strongly advise consumers to put a plan in place."

Which? is also urging the government and technology companies to simplify the inheritance process for online assets, ensuring clarity for grieving individuals during challenging times.