What happens to my Facebook account when I die?

Facebook Just like your funeral services, the fate of your Facebook account lies in the hands of your loved ones (provided they secure the required documentation).  Facebook gives families (or friends) of the deceased three options in dealing with the latter’s account:  Memorialization, Deletion and Download of data.  This article wFface

Deletion

When the request for the complete removal of your profile has been approved, your entire profile along with contents associated with your account will be eradicated so no one can view it.  It would be like you didn’t exist (At least in Facebook).  While some people may have their own reasons for requesting the complete removal of a deceased loved one’s Facebook profile, it could be traumatizing for the rest who have, at one point, had a connection with the decedent.   Therefore, it is important that you think long and hard before considering this option, should a loved one pass away.

Only immediate family members are allowed to request for the removal of a Facebook profile.  However, verification in the form of documents such as the deceased birth certificate, or any proof of authority under local law that you are the lawful representative of the deceased is required.

Download of your loved one’s digital estate

Given prior authorization by the deceased or court order, family members can download the decedent’s account data.  But this is still subject to the provisions of their state’s estate laws.

If you want to have a say in this matter, leave instructions in our will, including account details.  This not only grants your heirs permission to download your digital data from Facebook, but also give you peace of mind knowing that your account is no longer at the mercy of those you have left behind.