So you can truly rest in peace…
It is no secret that Google collects user data extensively. Whether you are simply using Google Search or looking for directions through Google Maps, the company has a complete profile set upon you. Fortunately, Google offers controls that lets you control what to do with your account and info once you die.
There are three major options. You can either:
- Delete everything after a certain period of inactivity.
- Share stuff like pictures in Google Photos or Gmail with up to 10 people.
- Finally, let your husband/wife control the account.
So without further ado, lets begin. To start with, go to this link:
- myaccount.google.com.
- Open “Data & personalization.”
- Look for and select “Make a plan for your account.”
- Click/tap “Start.”
After this, you can start to control what happens if you stop using Google and its services.
Here you can set the time Google should wait before taking any action. You can set it to a maximum of 18 months. Before the deadline approaches, Google will send out text messages and emails before making the account inactive. For this you need to provide a phone number and an email address of someone else. After you’re done, hit next.
You will be presented with a list of all Google services. Here you can choose what to keep and what to discard. Here’s the procedure:
- Enter in up to 10 contacts which Google will contact to confirm if the account should be deleted. You can also choose what to share. For instance, Google Chrome history, Gmail, Google Photos and more.
- Next you can set an auto-reply text message which will inform people that you are not around anymore.
Finally, review the plan and you are all set. Now should you pass away, Google will automatically take action depending on what preferences you have set.
