Being named an executor is a technical role as much as a legal one. The first 48 hours are critical for preserving data and securing assets.
Step 1: Secure the "Identity Devices"
Locate the deceased's primary smartphone and laptop. Keep them charged, but do not attempt to guess the PIN. Too many failed attempts can trigger a factory reset on modern devices.
Step 2: Check for a "Digital Vault"
Search the email for terms like "Afterword," "Vault," or "Legacy." If they used Afterword, initiate the Unlock Request immediately to start the security timer.
Step 3: Social Media Memorialization
Don't delete accounts yet. Many platforms allow you to turn a profile into a memorial, preserving photos while preventing identity theft.
Need a checklist? Afterword generates a task list for your executor automatically — organized around what the planner left behind.