If you’ve ever visited a website, paid a bill online, sent an email, or posted on Facebook, you’ve created a digital footprint — the trail of information that records your online activity. Some of this data is shared intentionally, like when you make a purchase or sign up for a subscription service. Other information is collected quietly in the background through website browsing history, cookies, and location tracking on your phone.
What many people don’t realize is that your digital footprint doesn’t disappear when you stop using the internet. Unless you take steps to remove it, your online accounts and personal information can remain active indefinitely, even after you or a loved one has passed away.
According to cybersecurity expert Jeff Chandler, CEO of Z‑JAK Technologies, this lingering digital presence can create real risks. For older adults, the danger is even greater. Inactive or forgotten accounts are prime targets for cybercriminals. Left unattended, your digital footprint can expose you to cyber threats, including identity theft.
“Email accounts end up being the key to accessing most of your digital footprint,” Jeff explains. “Unused accounts are vulnerable and provide criminals with an easy way in to access your financial and personal data. It’s important to take action and make sure you stay in control of your digital footprint.”
How to manage a digital footprint
According to Jeff, whether you’re organizing your own online life or helping a parent or loved one, these steps can protect personal information and help prevent fraud.
• Secure devices first. Keep phones, tablets, and computers in a secure place. This prevents unauthorized access and preserves important information.
• Protect email accounts. Email is the gateway to nearly every online account. Secure an email account by changing the password and enabling multi-factor authentication. Handle it carefully, as it controls password resets, billing notices, and identity verification. When handling the accounts of a loved one who’s no longer using them, continue to monitor their email for bills and important notices. Email should usually be one of the last accounts closed, not the first.
• Remember: nothing closes itself. Online accounts, subscriptions, and profiles stay active until someone manually shuts them down. This includes shopping sites, cloud storage, social media, and streaming services.
• Save memories before deleting. Download photos, videos, and important documents before closing accounts. Once an account is deleted, these items may be lost forever.
• Watch for silent subscriptions. Streaming services, cloud storage, and apps often continue billing long after they’re forgotten. These recurring charges can quietly drain bank accounts.
When a loved one has passed away
Inactive accounts are easy targets for identity thieves who look for opportunities in the months following a death, so it’s important to act quickly, Jeff advises.
While managing a digital footprint is now a standard part of estate and elder care planning, families need to be prepared with essential documents and information such as account passwords, he says.
• Proof is required. Most companies require a death certificate or legal authority to close accounts. Having documentation ready prevents delays and reduces stress for caregivers.
• Planning ahead makes everything easier. Discussing digital accounts with someone now may feel uncomfortable, but it saves time, money, and emotional strain later. Make sure passwords for all accounts are stored in a safe location and are accessible to loved ones responsible for managing and closing accounts.
Managing your digital footprint, or helping a loved one manage theirs, is essential in today’s connected world. Understanding what information is out there, how it’s collected, and how to remove it empowers families to protect their privacy, finances, and memories. Taking action now ensures that your digital life stays safely in your control.
By Kym Voorhees Raque
P.S. You may also be interested in this article: Don’t Be A Victim Of Online Scams.
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