Facebook offers users after-death option

Social media giant says it will let users pick someone who can manage their account after they die

People are silhouetted as they pose with mobile devices in front of a screen projected with a Facebook logo. Photograph: Dado Ruvic/Reuters

Thu Feb 12 2015 - 15:08

Facebook is offering more options to decide what happens to a user’s account after they die.

The social network said it will now let users pick someone who can manage their account after they die. Previously, the accounts were “memorialised” after death, or locked so that no one could log in.

Beginning in the US, Facebook said users can choose a “legacy contact” to post on their page after they die, respond to new friend requests and update their profile picture and cover photo.

Users can also have their accounts deleted instead.

Facebook also ensures that the account of a user who died does not show up as a “suggested friend” or in other ways that could upset the person’s loved ones.

Reuters