This question, which at first glance may seem a bit awkward, is of vital importance in this digital age. Without proper management of our social networks, both we and our loved ones can suffer unpleasant situations, from unnecessary notifications to crimes such as identity fraud.
How can a platform find out about these situations?
The truth is that platforms have no way of finding out about the death of a person on their own; it will only be through a family member who must communicate this situation. In spite of this, even having presented the Death Certificate of the user, the results may take weeks or even months to become effective.
Several cases have been documented in social media where users have communicated the farewell of a loved one; however, the results seem to be a lottery: some see changes only days later, while others are still in a long waiting line.
Here we will explain the most common situations, what you can do to solve them and how we can help you in this process.
Facebook and Instagram
Facebook and Instagram, both belonging to META, are among the main platforms with solutions to these cases. After the corresponding communication (sending the Death Certificate), relatives can decide whether to remove the profile from the public space or turn it into a memorial profile. In the latter, some photos may be displayed, but the profile will have certain restrictions on interaction with other users, such as sending messages. Notifications regarding the profile's birthday will also not be sent (Facebook), nor will the profile appear in the “People you may know” section.
X (Twitter):
X (formerly Twitter), on the other hand, has no options related to memorial profiles. A family member can report the death and remove the account from the public space, if desired.
Gmail:
As for Gmail, the platform has an option called “Create a plan for your digital legacy”, which allows the account owner to organize certain functions of Gmail, Drive, Docs or Slides, in order to grant access to someone close to you in case of your farewell. To do this, you will need to fill out certain forms, add trusted contacts and thus leave your profile ready in case your relatives wish to access it after your farewell. (which must also be notified with a Death Certificate).
Otherwise, accounts on the Gmail platform that are inactive for 2 years will be automatically deleted, according to a rule announced in 2023.
What can we do for you?
If you want help or advice in this regard, among our Special Services you can find the Digital Footprint Removal plan, in which we take care of deleting your “traces” from the Internet, closing profiles, canceling paid subscriptions and deleting your private information, in order to stop scams and fraud or unnecessary emails and messages. At WILSEND, we are here to help you.
