Social media accounts that belonged to a loved one is easy to overlook after their passing. A dormant social media account can become vulnerable to fraudsters who hack into them to steal a deceased person's identity.
It is important to cancel the accounts of a loved one after their passing. Below are some of the common social media platforms and how to cancel an account. For companies not listed, it is best to go directly to that company's website for information on how to delete the account.
Facebook and Instagram
Facebook and Instagram, owned by Meta, have the option to memorialize or delete the account of the loved one who has passed. The word "Remembering" will show next to the deceased person's name and the account allows family and friends to share memories to celebrate the deceased person's life. To memorialize an account, Meta will require proof of death.
A Facebook or Instagram account belonging to a deceased person may be canceled by the legacy contact on the account. If a legacy contact is not listed, the account may be deleted by an immediate family member, legal representative, or executor. Verification will be required. Facebook Help Center at https://www.facebook.com/help/1518259735093203 provides more information on how to cancel a deceased person's account.
NOTE: If the deceased has a Pinterest account that is connected to their Facebook account, it is recommended to delete the Pinterest account first.
Google and YouTube
Google and YouTube are owned by the parent company, Alphabet. Google Account Help at https://support.google.com/accounts/troubleshooter/6357590 provides a request form that my be submitted for assistance in canceling a deceased person's account.
NOTE: If the deceased has a Pinterest account that is connected to their Google account, it is recommended to delete the Pinterest account first.
To cancel a Pinterest account, send an email to support@pinterest.com. Be prepared to provide proof of death and proof of relationship to the deceased.
NOTE: If the Pinterest account is connected to deceased's Facebook, Google, or X accounts, it is recommended to delete the Pinterest account before the other accounts.
X (formerly Twitter)
X Help Center at https://help.twitter.com/en/rules-and-policies/contact-x-about-a-deceased-family-members-account provides assistance with accounts belonging to a deceased person. An account may be canceled by a verified immediate family member or a person authorized to act on behalf of the estate. The X Help Center provides a link to submit the request.
NOTE: If the deceased has a Pinterest account that is connected to their X account, it is recommended to delete the Pinterest account first.
A LinkedIn account may be canceled by an authorized person. Information on how to memorialize or close the account may be found at https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a1336663/. Information on the deceased person will be needed as well as proof of the authority to act on behalf of the deceased.
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