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This Graphic Shows What Happens to Your Social Accounts When You Die


None of us like to think about our death or the death of a loved one, but death is one thing it's important to prepare for. When it comes, you don't want to be stuck trying to get into a loved one's Gmail or Facebook account to shut things down. This graphic shows you what you're in for, and what you—or your loved ones—should have ready.

We've shown you how to create a master information kit to use in case of death or emergency, and part of that kit are your account logins and passwords. If you have them in a place your loved ones can get to them, it helps easily shut down your accounts—or at least get access to them so they can inform anyone who needs to know that you're in the hospital or otherwise unable to speak for yourself. without those accounts, loved ones often have to send over death certificates (which can cost money), proof of relation, proof of their identity, and more—and then wait weeks or months to get the access they need.

It's best to be prepared. The graphic below, from the folks at Webpage FX, outlines what happens to Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, and other accounts when their owner passes away, and what those companies require for next of kin or survivors to get access. Click enlarge below, or click the link below to see it at the source.

What Happens To Your Online Presence When You Die | Webpage FX via Mashable