What happens to social media after death?

Social profiles often hold years of messages, photos, and connections. After someone dies, families commonly ask whether an account should be memorialised, deleted, or left accessible to a relative.

There is no single global rule. Each platform sets its own policies, verification steps, and timelines. The following is general information — not legal advice for your specific situation.

Facebook and Instagram (Meta)

Meta offers memorialisation: the profile can remain visible with a remembrance label, and certain features such as birthday reminders may change. Verified family members or executors can request memorialisation or removal, subject to Meta's documentation requirements.

Without prior planning, families may need death certificates and proof of relationship. Private messages are typically not handed over in full.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn allows reporting a member as deceased. Verified requests can lead to profile removal or restriction. Professional networks may also receive connection notices — another reason to decide in advance what you prefer.

X and other platforms

Policies continue to evolve. Most services require verified third-party requests and may not grant login credentials. Some accounts are simply deactivated after prolonged inactivity.

Check each provider's current help pages before relying on informal workarounds.

Planning ahead helps

Record your wishes: memorialise, delete, or transfer specific content. Store legacy contact settings where the platform offers them. Keep a list of profiles and usernames in your vault so relatives are not searching from scratch.

Discuss preferences with close family if comfortable. A short note of intent prevents disagreement during an already difficult time.