Google Inc (GOOG), Facebook Inc (FB): Where Does Your Digital Data Go When You Die?

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Should we be any less concerned that our data could still be accessible to hackers after we’re gone? The same bank accounts, investments, credit cards, and other personal information may still be used by our family and friends when we’re no longer here. Our data should at least be sent to someone we know so it can be used or deleted.

This may all sound a little morbid, but it’s more practical than anything. If a will is an important thing to set up so that others know what to do with your stuff when you’re done, then a digital will should be almost as important. No one may want all the pictures of your dog you posted to Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB), but they will want some of your digital life. Some of your online information is important and should be protected. Which leads us to the question of why other companies don’t have a similar settings like Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG). Surely Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB), as the world’s largest social network, should have one. Any other company that stores online documents, such as Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)‘s iCloud and Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT)‘s Office 365, should do the same. Heck, if the Bitcoin craze plays out the way some are hoping, then there may be some digital monies that need to be designated as well.

In the end, choosing where your digital data will end up isn’t a decision just for your peace of mind; it’s to make a difficult time for those you love just a little easier. It’s a little relief, and it’s one less thing to think about for the ones who were closest to you.

The article Where Does Your Digital Data Go When You Die? originally appeared on Fool.com is written by Chris Neiger.

Fool contributor Chris Neiger has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Apple, Facebook, and Google and owns shares of Apple, Facebook, Google, and Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT).

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