The Digital Afterlife: What Happens to Your Passwords When You Die
As the world becomes increasingly digital, a pressing question has arisen: what happens to our online presence when we pass away? A recent trend suggests that password managers are taking the lead in addressing this issue, but many online services still lag behind.
According to experts, most online services do not have clear policies for handling deceased users' accounts. "It's like they're just waiting for a court order or some other form of documentation before letting someone access the account," said Rachel Kim, a digital estate planning expert. "This can be a lengthy and costly process, which is why it's essential to plan ahead."
Apple and Facebook have taken steps to address this issue by introducing legacy contact features that allow users to designate someone to manage their accounts after they pass away. However, these services are the exception rather than the rule.
Password managers, on the other hand, have been incorporating digital legacy features into their platforms. LastPass, for example, allows users to designate a successor who can access their account and passwords after they die. "We've seen an increase in users taking advantage of this feature as they realize the importance of planning for their digital estate," said Joe Siegrist, LastPass' vice president of product.
The American Bar Association has also taken notice of the issue, with its 2019 report highlighting the need for clear policies and procedures for accessing online accounts after a person's death. "As our lives become increasingly digital, it's essential that we have a plan in place for what happens to our online presence when we're no longer here," said ABA president Judy Perry Martinez.
While password managers are taking steps to address the issue, many online services still lack clear policies and procedures. This can lead to a complex and costly process for loved ones trying to access accounts after someone's passing.
As technology continues to evolve, it's likely that digital legacy will become an increasingly important consideration. "We're seeing more and more people taking control of their digital estate, and we expect this trend to continue," said Siegrist.
In the meantime, experts recommend that individuals take proactive steps to plan for their digital legacy by designating a successor or using password managers with built-in digital legacy features.
Background:
The concept of digital legacy has been gaining attention in recent years as more people die with online accounts and services still active. According to a 2020 report, an estimated 3.8 million Americans died with unclaimed assets, including online accounts and passwords.
Additional Perspectives:
Some experts argue that the issue of digital legacy is not just about accessing accounts after someone's death but also about protecting their online identity and preventing potential scams. "When someone dies, their online presence can be vulnerable to exploitation," said Kim. "It's essential that we have clear policies in place to protect their digital estate."
Current Status and Next Developments:
As password managers continue to incorporate digital legacy features into their platforms, it's likely that more online services will follow suit. The American Bar Association is also expected to continue its efforts to address the issue of accessing online accounts after a person's death.
In the meantime, individuals can take proactive steps to plan for their digital legacy by designating a successor or using password managers with built-in digital legacy features. As technology continues to evolve, it's essential that we have clear policies and procedures in place to protect our digital estate.
*Reporting by Wired.*
