UK Helpline: 0345 123 2304 | tcf.org.uk Videos: In the online world, videos can be stored on social networks such as Facebook, and/or designated websites for video sharing and streaming such as YouTube or Vimeo. Audio recordings: Sound files can be stored and uploaded in similar locations to videos, as well as some sites specifically for audio, such as SoundCloud. Audio recordings may also be found on a mobile phone, as WhatsApp voice messages or as voicemail greetings. Types of social media services Some social media services, such as Facebook, X, TikTok, and Instagram keep the user’s content on the Internet almost indefinitely. Pictures, messages, posts, music files and other material can only be deleted by the user. While YouTube is not a social media platform, users can set up their own accounts and post comments as well as uploading videos. Again, these can remain on the platform almost indefinitely. However, photos and videos sent on SnapChat disappear after a set time. As the information is not saved, these services are less relevant as far as digital legacy is concerned. Gaining access to our child’s digital world The following are some brief points for easy reference. For more details, please see tcf.org.uk/digitallegacyinfo There are two stages of access: access to a physical device such as our child’s smartphone (often protected by a PIN code) and then access to accounts on that device (often password protected). If we ourselves are not technologically proficient, a sibling or a trusted friend – one of our own or perhaps our child’s – may be able to assist. If a device is locked with a PIN or password, we may be able to ask a professional for assistance with unlocking it. Some laptop or phone repair shops may be willing to do this, for a fee, on production of proof that the previous owner is deceased; however, some companies, such as Apple, refuse to do so. Alternatively, if we have no passwords to access a computer, a shop can probably remove the disk drive and attach it to a different device. When handing it over for such work, we should always emphasise its value.
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