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In an increasingly digital world, your legacy isn’t just physical—it’s also online. From email accounts and cloud storage to bank platforms, photographs, and creative projects, these digital assets form a significant part of your life story. Proper digital legacy planning ensures that this part of your identity remains protected and accessible when it matters most.

Yet many people overlook this area entirely. Without a clear strategy in place, family members may struggle to access important accounts or files, often facing unnecessary legal or emotional stress. Planning ahead helps ensure your wishes are followed and that your personal data remains secure.

What Is a Digital Legacy?

Your digital legacy includes all of your online accounts, digital documents, and personal data. Examples include:

• Bank and investment platforms
• Social media accounts
• Cloud storage services
• Emails and contact lists
• Digital photographs and videos
• Passwords and online subscriptions
• Blogs, websites, or creative intellectual property

Unlike traditional assets, these are often password-protected or tied to strict platform terms. Without proper access, they may be lost forever.

Why Digital Legacy Planning Is Often Overlooked

Many people with a will never consider their online presence. Estate planning has historically focused on physical possessions, but today, neglecting your digital life can lead to confusion, stress, or the permanent loss of meaningful content.

From treasured photos to financial accounts, your digital information deserves the same protection and forethought as your physical assets. This is where proactive digital legacy planning becomes essential.

Five Steps to Protect Your Digital Legacy

1. Make a List of Digital Assets

Create an inventory of your online presence—include account types, login details, and instructions for managing or closing each one.

2. Appoint a Digital Executor

Choose a trusted individual to manage your digital estate. This person should be familiar with technology and able to follow your preferences clearly.

3. Store Key Documents Securely

Back up important files such as wills, insurance papers, photos, and account details using a digital vault that offers encrypted storage and secure file sharing. This helps ensure your executor has access to the information they need.

4. Use a Password Manager

Instead of writing down passwords, use a reputable password manager. This adds security and helps your digital executor manage accounts efficiently.

5. Set Preferences for Social Media Accounts

Platforms like Facebook and Google let you define what happens to your account after death. These settings help prevent complications for your loved ones.

Why Secure Storage Is Essential

Using secure storage tools and encrypted sharing ensures that your digital legacy remains private, protected, and accessible only to the people you trust. A centralised, secure location prevents data loss and reduces the risk of unauthorised access.

By preparing now, you ease the burden on your family and maintain control over how your digital information is handled in the future. With thoughtful digital legacy planning, your memories, important accounts, and personal data stay protected—today and long after.