Most people do not have a plan for what will happen to their digital accounts and online assets after death. As a result, loved ones may often find themselves unable to access photos, social media accounts, and other digital assets, warns the UK-based consumer group 'Which?'

'Which?' is calling on people to create a digital plan so that there is a clear idea of what should happen to their online presence, according to a report by the British newspaper The Independent.

According to research by Which?, more than three-quarters (76%) of people do not have any plan for their digital assets after death. Fewer than one in five (18%) provide instructions on this matter, and only 3% include it in their will.

The consumer group highlights that this issue is particularly relevant for social media accounts that generate income, as there can be complications about what happens to the money earned from these accounts after the user dies.

While traditional royalties or assets are often passed on to an estate, digital assets may not always be considered as royalties, says Which?.

User agreements on various social media platforms often provide detailed information about what happens to an account after the user’s death. Which? encourages people to make plans regarding their digital assets if it is relevant to them.

Additionally, the organization suggests sharing account details with loved ones before death so that the right people can access digital accounts and assets along with the will.

“Our latest research shows that the vast majority of people have no plan for what happens to their digital assets after death,” said Harry Rose, editor of Which?’s magazine.

“Whether transferring emotional assets like photos or giving permission to close social media accounts to loved ones, we strongly advise consumers to create a plan.”

“We also urge governments and technology companies to make the process of transferring digital assets simpler and clearer, so people know exactly what to do.”