As we move increasingly into the digital world, we use online services for everything from banking to keeping family heirloom memories alive. But most people rarely consider what will happen to their digital assets when they die.
GentleTech is an end-of-life IT support service that helps people navigate this process with compassion, so you can leave your digital footprint in capable hands, giving you and your family peace of mind.
Family members may find themselves stressed and confused trying to handle digital accounts without a proper plan. Making clear arrangements helps them grieve and heal, rather than worry about needless problems.
Memory keeping is another important motivation to plan. Such photos, videos and emotive messages maintained on digital platforms inherently have high emotional value for family members and friends. Having access to these digital memories can be comforting and is also a way to help affirm the legacy of a loved one.
Another notable aspect of digital planning is financial security. Digital wallets, online banking accounts, and subscription services, oh my, require the right management to avoid unnecessary charges or assets going lost. Also, locking or shutting down accounts minimises the risk of identity theft and unlawful use.
Digital assets can include financial accounts, like online banking, PayPal, and cryptocurrency wallets. Data of value can be found on social media applications like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Things like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Spotify subscriptions should be given a lot of attention, as should cloud storage solutions like Google Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox. Email accounts, e-commerce accounts and other online profiles make up a person’s digital footprint.
The steps for managing or transferring ownership vary depending on the type of asset. We simplify this with GentleTech to make sure it is done fast and secure.
The initial step in planning for digital legacy is doing an inventory of digital assets. This involves writing out an inventory of accounts, passwords, and payment methods. Organising these assets (financial, personal and/or professional) into categories streamlines this process.
Another important step is to appoint a digital executor. This individual will be charged with executing your wishes regarding digital assets. That assures them of a lack of hassle.
A password manager can store your login information securely. Services such as Norton Password Manager let you share access with trusted people without compromising security.
It is also vital to incorporate digital assets into an estate plan. Your solicitor will help ensure your digital legacy is dealt with from a legal perspective. For security reasons, however, passwords should not be included directly in a will.
Many platforms have legacy features which let users choose what will happen to their accounts when they die. Facebook’s Legacy Contact and Google’s Inactive Account Manager help define what will happen to accounts.
Since technology changes rapidly, it’s important to keep your technological inventory up to date. Monitoring your changing accounts and passwords creates an action that adapts to your account and password in every instant.
One recurring challenge is the absence of documentation. And if there isn’t a list of where a person has accounts, it can be difficult for loved ones to find and access accounts. Preventing this issue starts with keeping a detailed digital inventory.
Platform limitations can also be part of the challenge. Some lack access policies altogether, and noting “next of kin” can punish mutual friends as well. You also get occasional bumps based on platform-specific rules, and legacy tools allow you to avoid pitfalls.
There are also security risks. Doing this puts sensitive information at risk, such as passwords, which can be used to access personal accounts. These prevent intelligence agencies and hackers from accessing your data: You can secure it with encrypted storage solutions or password managers.
Managing a loved one’s digital assets can also be an emotionally fraught process. It’s a lot to take in, but GentleTech helps support families through every step of the way.
GentleTech provides end-of-life IT support with personalised services for managing digital estates. Personally, we guide you through creating digital inventory and making sure you have captured all the important accounts.
We offer advice on legacy planning tools, like Facebook’s Legacy Contact and Google’s Inactive Account Manager. Secure account management services help families secure an access to, transfer, or close accounts.
GentleTech can train loved ones as well. To navigate the world of digital assets with confidence, workshops and one-on-one sessions equip individuals with the skills required. We support digital legacy plans by keeping them updated as technology develops.
A solid digital legacy plan creates peace of mind. And the peace of mind that comes from knowing your digital assets will be managed as you wish allows you to focus on the present without worrying about the future.
A well-organised digital estate also helps smooth processes for executors and diminishes delays. GentleTech also provides expert recommendations with the aim to improve security and safeguard users against fraud and identity theft.
Preserving access to cherished memories allows family members to carry on celebrating and honouring a loved one’s life. Photos, videos, and other sentimental digital assets are preserved for future generations.
One of the best ways to preserve your digital assets is by starting early. Giving yourself ample time to get your digital accounts in order will help you stitch together a cohesive plan.
Communication is key. Discussing your digital legacy with family members prevents confusion and ensures that your wishes are clearly understood.
Local storage means sensitive information can potentially be accessed by an untrained eye. The use of secure cloud storage solutions and password managers can add an extra level of security for personal information.
You should check on your digital legacy plan on a yearly basis. Regular updates ensure your plan is accurate and effective as technology evolves and new accounts emerge.
Planning your digital legacy is one of the necessary aspects of preparing for the future. GentleTech offers compassionate, professional assistance to help you organise, secure and manage your digital legacy.
When you take precautionary measures today, you will help to carry the weight from your family and friends and maintain your digital legacy properly.
Contact GentleTech now for a consultation if you are ready to protect your digital assets. We are ready to handle the first steps of your complete digital legacy planning.
Contact GentleTech today for a consultation: 0204 616 0300
