Social media platforms have become central repositories of our digital lives, containing conversations, connections, and memories that often matter deeply to those we leave behind. Yet these platforms were built for the living, not the dead, creating unique challenges for digital legacy planning.

When someone passes away, their social media accounts often become unexpected memorials. Friends and family gather in comment threads, share memories, and process grief through the very platform where they once shared everyday moments. Understanding how to prepare for this transition is essential.

The primary challenges families face include phone number and sim card required for account access, end-to-end encryption prevents cloud-based message recovery, and chat backups require separate cloud storage credentials. These technical barriers often prevent loved ones from accessing important information, preserving memories, or even closing accounts when desired.

DeathNote helps you navigate these complexities by providing secure credential storage, clear instructions for account access, and guidance on platform-specific policies. You can document your preferences for account management, designate trusted contacts, and ensure your digital legacy reflects your intentions rather than platform defaults.

Beyond technical access, consider what messages or information you'd want shared through these platforms. Many people use social media to announce deaths and share memorial details, making it essential to have clear guidance for those managing your accounts posthumously.

Private messaging, family group chats, business communications, international calling

Phone-based accounts, WhatsApp Business accounts, group admin roles

Messages, photos, videos, voice messages, documents, group chats, status updates

Store your WhatsApp phone number, SIM card location, and cloud backup credentials (iCloud or Google Drive) in DeathNote. Include instructions for accessing your physical phone and unlocking it to retrieve messages.

Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and enable automatic backups to iCloud (iPhone) or Google Drive (Android). Verify backups are working and document your cloud storage login credentials so family can restore chats.