What happens to our social media accounts when we die – including celebs like Tom Parker

When somebody dies in 2022, the chances are they are also leaving behind an online legacy.

This includes celebrities such as Tom Parker, Mike Thalassitis and Caroline Flack, who still have live Instagram accounts.

Nearly 80 percent of people living in the UK have social media and their accounts will likely outlive them.

What happens after a person's death depends on the social media company, as well as what the family wishes to happen. Some may find comfort in its continued existence, while others may wish for it to be deleted.

Instagram

Instagram asks for an email to inform of a user's passing, and will request proof through either a death certificate, a link to an obituary or news article.

The account can then be memorialised. No posts can be added, and nobody can log in but the posts will stay active for those who they originally wished to see them. Their posts will no longer appear in the explore section or any public spaces.

Alternatively, family members can request for it to be closed down.

Twitter

The account can be deactivated if requested by a person authorised to act on behalf of their estate, or a verified family member.

Twitter requires ID of the person making the request, as well as a copy of the death certificate.

They will never give access to the account.

Facebook

Facebook have put control into the user's hands. We can all make a decision before we die what we want to happen to the account.

You will need to go to Settings, then Security where you'll find the option Legacy Contact. Click to have your account permanently deleted if this is your wish and follow the on-screen instructions.

You can also elect a person to become a legacy contract here, and they will be able to post a final message on your profile to inform friends of the death. They will then be able to comment messages of remembrance and sympathy.

The word ‘Remembering’ will be displayed next to the person’s name who has died, and the page is secure so no one else can access it.

They will no longer be visible in public spaces such as suggestions for People You May Know, ads or birthday reminders.

If these arrangements are not made before death, then a loved one can request it in the Help Centre .

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