Digital Devices (Access for Next of Kin) Bill

Key Points

• Establishes a statutory right for the next of kin to access the digital devices of a deceased or incapacitated person.
• Defines the scope to cover devices owned or controlled by that person.
• Creates a process for how the right can be exercised, including verification or access procedures to be set out in the bill.
• Aims to support families with post-death or incapacity digital matters and administration.

Progress

The bill is currently at the second reading in the House of Commons; if it progresses, it will move to the Committee of the Whole House for detailed examination.