2025
The Digital Legacy – Managing a Loved One’s Social Media After Death
When a loved one passes away, there are countless details that need attention — from planning the funeral and arranging the disposition of remains to handling estate matters. In recent years, a new and often unexpected task has been added to that list: managing the deceased’s social media accounts.
You may wonder why this matters — after all, your loved one is no longer active online. However, leaving those accounts unattended can pose risks. Active profiles remain vulnerable to hacking or identity theft, and personal information, photos, and memories may be compromised. Beyond that, social media pages often serve as digital memorials — spaces where friends and family can share memories, post tributes, and revisit cherished moments.
Below is an overview of how several major platforms handle social media accounts after someone’s passing.
Facebook allows you to request that a deceased person’s account be memorialized, which preserves their content while preventing new posts or logins. You can also request that the account be permanently deleted. To do so, Facebook requires documentation proving your relationship to the deceased, such as a power of attorney, will, estate letter, or birth certificate (for minors), along with a death certificate, obituary, or memorial card.
Because Instagram is owned by Meta, its process is similar to Facebook’s. You can request that an account be memorialized or removed by submitting proof of death (such as a death certificate or obituary) and documentation showing that you are the legal representative or next of kin.
LinkedIn does not release login credentials under any circumstances. However, you may request that a profile be memorialized or closed. To memorialize an account, LinkedIn will ask for:
- The person’s full name and LinkedIn profile URL
- Your relationship to the deceased
- The deceased’s email address and date of death
- Proof of death (death certificate or obituary)
To fully close an account, you’ll need legal authorization — such as letters of administration, testamentary, or another court order appointing you as the estate’s representative.
X (formerly Twitter)
X also does not share login details. However, you can request that an account be removed by completing an online form and providing:
- The account handle and your contact details
- A copy of your photo ID
- The death certificate of the deceased
Managing someone’s digital presence after their passing may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s an important part of protecting their memory and personal information. Each platform’s process can take time, but addressing these accounts ensures that your loved one’s digital legacy is treated with the same care and respect as every other part of their life.
Maple Ridge Funeral Chapel and Crematorium, based in Maple Ridge, BC, has been providing compassionate funeral services on the Lower Mainland for over 60 years. We have deep roots in the community and take great pride in caring ethics and exemplary service. If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about funeral services, please call us at (604) 463-8121.
