If you have recently lost a friend or family member, you may be looking to gain access to their phone, computer or tablet to get their personal data.
Whether you're looking for photos, passwords or other information, it's frustrating when you don't know their passcode to simply access it.
We've gathered the steps you should follow to unlock an Android device and Windows PC if the owner dies.
How to unlock an Android or PC if the owner dies
Similar to Apple's iCloud, Android and PC computer users often connect their devices to a Google account. If you know the email address and password associated with the user's Google account, you may be able to reset their password using that.
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Using a Google account to access data
Using a Samsung account to access data
Using a Microsoft account to access data
HOW TO CHANGE YOUR PRIVACY SETTINGS ON YOUR ANDROID DEVICES
If the owner of the device was a Microsoft user and had an email address ending in Outlook.com, Live.com, Hotmail.com or MSN.com, and you do not have their Microsoft login information, you can request it through a subpoena or court order. You'll most likely be required to provide:
Removing an SD memory card
How to ensure loved ones can access your data
In case of an emergency or death, you want to be sure your loved ones can still access your data. Make sure one trusted loved one has your login information and/or passwords written down in a safe, protected location. That way they can still access your photos and other phone apps without having to go through a court order or complicated reset process.
If your phone provider offers a legacy contact option, set that up now.
If you use social media, platforms like Facebook offer an option to name someone as your legacy contact.
