One of the big issues is that we don’t necessarily understand what our digital footprint encompasses. – Danny Snow
As digital footprints continue to expand, questions about their longevity and management after death are becoming increasingly significant. In this month’s ADAPT Radio podcast, Danny Snow, a PhD candidate at University College Dublin’s School of Information and Communication Studies, examines how artificial intelligence and digital literacy influence the preservation and accessibility of data that outlives its creators.
The concept of a digital legacy (information remaining about a person after their death) is evolving. With vast amounts of personal data being collected, the issue of ownership and access becomes complex. Families of the deceased may struggle to access digital assets, even when they contain valuable memories. While major technology companies offer legacy contact options, these come with ethical considerations. In some cases, family members have been denied access to sentimental digital content, such as photos, due to restrictive policies.
Beyond personal concerns, posthumous data can be repurposed in ways the deceased never consented to. With fewer legal barriers, companies may exploit such data for AI training, commercial use, or research. While some may find comfort in contributing to scientific advancements, others may be uneasy about the potential misuse of their digital selves.
To address these concerns, Snow has explored the concept of a “data donation card,” inspired by organ donor cards. This initiative allows individuals to specify which types of data they would be willing to share after death and under what circumstances. Preliminary findings suggest that while many express indifference about their digital footprint post-mortem, perspectives shift when they consider the implications for loved ones. Genetic information, in particular, raises ethical dilemmas due to its inherent ties to family members.
As AI continues to shape our digital afterlives, understanding the value of posthumous data remains an ongoing challenge. Encouraging conversations about digital legacies and fostering digital literacy will be essential in navigating the future of personal data after death.
Listen to this month’s ADAPT Radio podcast here or wherever you get your podcasts.
