Simple steps to protect your family with your smart device

In an age where our digital and personal lives are deeply intertwined, the smartphone you carry becomes a critical tool in ensuring your family’s well-being and preparedness. Whether you’re using an iPhone or an Android device, there are powerful features at your disposal for organizing key components of family planning. Here is a guide our attorneys often share with client to help them leverage their smart devices for setting up emergency and legacy contacts, account recovery options, password management, and the secure organization and sharing of important documents.

Step 1: Establishing Emergency Contacts

iPhone Users:

• Open the Health app, tap the Medical ID tab.

• Choose to edit or create a Medical ID.

• Add emergency contacts, accessible from your lock screen.

Android Users:

• Open the Contacts app.

• Select your profile, then ‘Emergency information’.

• Update your emergency contacts accordingly.

Step 2: Setting Up Legacy Contacts

iPhone:

• Navigate to Settings > [your name] > Password & Security.

• Select Legacy Contact, then add your chosen contact.

• Share the access key with them.

Android (Google Account):

• Use Google Account Inactive Manager online.

• Add a trusted contact for account inactivity.

Step 3: Account Recovery Options

• Keep recovery options for all digital accounts up-to-date.

• Ensure a recovery phone number and email are listed.

Step 4: Password Storage and Recovery

Built-In Password Managers:

• iCloud Keychain for iPhone and Google Password Manager for Android automate password saving and suggest strong passwords. Access them in device settings or online.

Third-Party Password Managers:

• Apps like LastPass or 1Password securely store passwords. Set up involves installing the app and creating a master password.

Step 5: Storage and Sharing of Important Documents

Essential Documents to Retain:

1. Legal: Wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.

2. Financial: Bank accounts, investments, and loans.

3. Property: Deeds, titles, and insurance policies.

4. Personal ID: Passports, driver’s licenses, and birth certificates.

5. Healthcare: Insurance information, medical records, and directives.

6. Family Records: Marriage licenses, divorce decrees, adoption certificates.

Sharing with Friends and Loved Ones:

• Cloud Storage Sharing: iCloud or Google Drive for sharing folders with specific documents. Grant access to chosen family or friends.

• Digital Vaults: Services designed for secure document storage and sharing. Set access permissions for individuals.

• Via Legacy Contacts: Ensure legacy contacts are informed and understand how to access your data posthumously.

Online Resources:

• Guides and Support Pages: Apple Support and Google’s help pages offer in-depth guides on using their respective features, including iCloud Keychain, Google Password Manager, and cloud storage options.

Conclusion:

Your smartphone is more than just a device for communication; it’s a potent tool for safeguarding your family’s future, organizing crucial information, and enhancing your digital security. By taking the steps outlined—setting up emergency and legacy contacts, ensuring account recovery options are current, managing passwords, and securely storing and sharing important documents—you can provide peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones, knowing that vital information is accessible when it’s most needed.

While technology offers us the tools to prepare for the future, legal advice ensures that these preparations are sound and aligned with current laws and best practices. If you have questions about legally securing your digital legacy, safeguarding your online presence, or any other aspects of family planning, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professionals.

For personalized legal guidance and to ensure that your planning meets all legal standards, contact the attorneys at the Ament Law Group. Our team is ready to assist you with expert advice tailored to your unique situation, helping you navigate the complexities of legal preparedness. Take the next step in securing your family’s future today.