Most of us probably have a good scroll through Facebook multiple times a day, checking to see what our friends and family have been up to or what news they have to share.
The social networking site is ideal for posting photos and memories, as well as sharing your interests and passions, and looking back on old posts can bring a real sense of warmth and nostalgia.
It's been around for over a decade, meaning plenty of us will have documented some part of our lives on it. And although it might be morbid to think about, it turns out you can keep your account and all your memories alive even when you pass away.
The Mirror reports that people are now realising that your friends and family have the option to memorialise your account when you die, but ultimately it's up to them.
Here's how it can be done, or if it's not for you, how to have the account deleted instead.
How to memorialise Facebook profile
If you don't want your Facebook profile disappear, it can be memorialised, which means the word "remembering" will appear next to your name.
Friends and family can request this after a person has died, or the person can decide to choose this option when they're alive. It means that things like photos, messages and posts will be kept after a person dies.
'Memorialising' an account means it won't show up in suggested friends, ads or birthday reminders, so it's the ideal way to keep it.
A 'legacy contact' can be selected, which is one person that can log in and access the memorialised profile.
This user can manage tribute posts to your profile, respond to friends requests, update profile picture and cover photo, and also request the account be deleted.
Importantly, they aren't able to make new posts appearing as the account user, or view private Facebook messages.
You can request an account to be memorialised through Facebook, and they will review and get back to you.
How to delete Facebook account
If a memorialised account isn't for you, Facebook allows people to delete accounts on behalf of the deceased.
It's worth remembering that if you choose to have the profile deleted, all the messages, photos, posts and comments will be permanently removed from the social media platform.
You need to request Facebook to do this, and they will need documentation in the form of proof of authority and proof your loved one had passed away.
You'll have to submit one of the following: power of attorney, birth certificate (in cases where the deceased is a minor), last will and testament or estate letter – as well as a death certificate, obituary or memorial card.
Facebook recommends all users discuss the decision to delete or memorialise profiles as soon as possible. It says: "Please bear in mind that memorialisation is a big decision. If you're not a family member or close friend of the person who has passed away, we recommend contacting the person's family before requesting memorialisation."
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