Request memorialization of deceased loved ones' Facebook accounts
- A memorialized Facebook account displays "Remembering" next to the user's name and prevents unauthorized access.
- Users can request memorialization by submitting documentation to Facebook to confirm a person's passing.
- Memorializing accounts protects digital legacies and ensures that deceased individuals' profiles are honored and secured from misuse.
In recent months, Facebook expanded its features to help manage the digital legacy of deceased users, allowing their accounts to be memorialized. Memorialization serves various purposes, such as preserving the profile and ensuring privacy after death. Once an account is memorialized, it cannot be accessed by anyone, effectively preventing unauthorized logins or misuse by third parties. Users can request memorialization if they believe the account belongs to a deceased individual by submitting a memorialization request form along with necessary documentation, such as proof of death. If a legacy contact has been designated by the deceased individual prior to their passing, that contact can manage the memorialized account, which includes accepting new friend requests and pinning tribute posts. However, certain actions are restricted, and legacy contacts do not have the ability to log into the account or access direct messages. This added layer of security aims to protect the deceased's personal information from scams and misuse. In cases where there is no legacy contact assigned, or when immediate family members want to remove an account entirely, they can request account deletion. This process involves filling out a special form and providing documentation, including the deceased's death certificate and proof of relationship. Facebook emphasizes that they do not allow anyone to log into someone else's account, even if login credentials are known. This policy is intended to uphold strict privacy and security guidelines. Users are also encouraged to assign legacy contacts for their own accounts to facilitate the management or retrieval of their digital content after passing. Apart from Facebook, users are recommended to consider legacy contacts on other platforms, which will ensure that their digital presence is handled according to their wishes when they are no longer present. By taking appropriate steps, individuals can safeguard their loved ones' digital legacies and uphold their online memories respectfully.