Digital estate: access to a deceased person's accounts
After the death of a relative, the question of online accounts often arises: email, social networks, contracts, subscriptions. Heirs generally step into the digital legal positions too, and platforms must grant access.
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What you should do now
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1. Review accounts and contracts
Get an overview of the deceased's email inboxes, social networks, subscriptions and paid contracts.
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2. Prove your status as heir
Present the death certificate and your proof of inheritance (a certificate of inheritance or a will with the opening record) to the providers.
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3. Demand access or termination
Demand access to the account or the cancellation or ending of ongoing contracts, in writing, with proof.
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4. If access is refused
If a provider refuses access despite proof of inheritance, you can rely on the BGH case law and consider legal steps.
Frequently asked questions
Do heirs have access to a deceased person's online accounts?
Generally yes. The digital estate passes to the heirs; the BGH affirmed access to a deceased person's user account. Providers may not refuse access with a blanket data-protection argument, but you must prove your status as an heir.
What do I need to gain access?
As a rule the death certificate and proof of inheritance (a certificate of inheritance or an opened will). With these you can demand from the providers access to the account as well as the cancellation of the deceased's ongoing paid contracts.
Take action now
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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.