Planning for your Digital Legacy

 

Planning for your Digital Legacy

My Avira Account

The loss of a loved one is often unexpected and sad enough for surviving relatives without having to deal with the deceased’s digital legacy. In days of old, all it took to dig through the lives of the deceased was to rummage through their files and safety deposit boxes. Nowadays, though, estate administration is quite complex because we now handle a large part of our personal affairs digitally.  

Just think of the many online accounts you have: Online banking, email accounts, energy providers, social media accounts… there’s more than you first think. This gives rise to the inevitable question as to how you can safely store all those access details — even individually — in a password safe like Avira Password Manager and make life a little easier for surviving relatives to take care of your digital estate. Read on for some top tips.  

What is your digital legacy? 

Roughly speaking, your digital legacy refers to all electronic data, which is typically password-protected, that we leave behind on data carriers and the internet after we pass. This data includes online financial accounts, email inboxes, social media profiles, cloud storage, licenses, chat histories, media, cryptocurrencies, and more.   

Digital legacy is a comparatively new topic in inheritance law and one that continues to pose a major headache for legislators, consumers, and surviving relatives. 

What does your digital legacy include? 

You’re probably aware that any email inbox you have — no matter with which provider — is part of your digital estate. But few of us will probably realize how many digital traces we leave behind during our lifetime.  

Online accounts 

You might use online shops (such as Amazon or eBay), cryptocurrency services (Bitcoin), or other payment services (PayPal or Google Pay), streaming services (Netflix or Spotify), and/or a Google or Apple account.  

If so, you should consider how, for example, possible balances, contracts, contract data, standing orders, cancellation terms, as well as message histories and transaction lists should be handled after your passing. 

Social network profiles 

Some social networks, such as Facebook, now allow you to designate your digital legacy executor, who will deal with your profile after your death in accordance with your personal wishes.  

In addition to access details, this area of your digital legacy is concerned with setting out what should happen with the profile information, messages, or the media you’ve uploaded. This also applies to all social networks, including — if applicable — Twitter, Instagram, XING, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, Google, Snapchat, TikTok, Skype, YouTube, dating sites, and others.  

Online services  

The digital services category includes cloud services, work tools and platforms (e.g. Slack or WordPress), social media tools (Hootsuite), financial software (NetSuite), crowdfunding platforms (Patreon, Kickstarter), and YouTube channels.  

If you have your own accounts with these providers, a digital legacy executor should be able to access the exact contract details, termination provisions, uploaded media, message histories, transaction lists, and business data in addition to your access details.  

Online licenses 

Are you a passionate online gamer with a Steam or Origin license? Then you should also keep the access details in a safe place for your digital legacy executor — and record what should happen to the items and avatars you’ve created in your online games, for example.  

If you use software licenses (such as Windows 365 or Adobe Creative Suite), the contract details, termination provisions, and also any possible transfer regulations should also be among the topics to be set out in your digital legacy.  

Hardware 

It goes without saying that your digital legacy also includes any kind of hardware on which you have stored media, documents, projects, and other things, such as PCs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, (external) hard drives, USB sticks, e-book readers, video game systems, or wearables. 

Reasons to take care of your digital legacy 

As you’re probably aware from the aspects we’ve mentioned, if you don’t make arrangements for your digital legacy, it can get quite costly for your heirs because contracts, such as with providers, energy suppliers, or lenders, naturally continue to run for the immediate future. In many cases, licenses and subscriptions are also renewed automatically.  

If you have an online business, taking care of your digital legacy becomes even more important. That’s because instead of having a physical shop or office, business is conducted online via a website, a payment service, and an online video-conferencing provider — and these things of course keep running.  

Even your private traces no longer gather dust in photo albums. Instead, they may be stored in a cloud account and/or continue to delight your contacts on social media — although online privacy should have special protection after death.  

This is where access details are essential to check these contracts and obligations. If you haven’t put them in a safe place, many surviving relatives will fail at the first hurdle of even trying to turn on your smartphone or laptop. 

How to take care of your digital legacy 

Let’s start with the easiest step of all: Establish an overview of all your online accounts and contracts. Surely there are some accounts you don’t use at all? You should delete unused and superfluous profiles and accounts — if only to maintain a streamline online presence while you’re still around and keep your digital legacy manageable. 

Store your access details in a safe place 

It’s extremely helpful for you and your relatives if you keep a list of all relevant access details — of course in a safe place — and update it regularly. But there’s an easier option. 

If you have a password safe like Avira Password Manager, typically the most you need to do is leave the master password for your digital legacy executor. That’s because this password manager gives you a great overview of your online accounts even while you’re still on this planet — plus you can generate strong and more secure passwords that can improve your protection against cyberattacks and, in doing so, your online privacy. 

Incidentally, depending on the online service, it can also be a good move to enter a security question that only people close to you can answer. 

Powers of attorney make it easier for surviving relatives to manage your digital legacy 

You should consider arranging a power of attorney for all your online accounts with highly sensitive data, such as for online banking, payment services, or cryptocurrencies. In this way, you can ensure that your heirs can access your assets stored online directly.  

Draw up such a power of attorney by hand and be sure to include the creation date and your signature. Add that the provisions of your power of attorney should apply “after death”. And if you want to be on the safe side, have it notarized. The person you entrust with the power of attorney does not have to be an heir.  

Add precise wishes for your digital legacy in your will 

A will is of course very important, especially if you have kids or there are people you are very close to. However, many of us tend to forget that our digital legacy is just as much an important part of our will as our physical assets. And it’s ultimately up to you whether you keep this extended will in a safe place and have it notarized. 

Check the contractual terms of your online accounts  

Familiarize yourself with the terms of the providers of your various online services and accounts, and look for the appropriate contract and termination clauses (such as “Death of User”). If in doubt, switch to providers who have more flexible termination policies. 

Who inherits your digital legacy once you’ve passed? 

User account contracts for social networks generally pass to the heirs after the user’s death — that’s the case in Germany anyway, as decided by the Federal Court of Justice in 2018 (file no.: III ZR 183/17 if you’re really interested). The presiding judge emphasized that this is quite normal for letters and diaries, so there’s no reason to treat digital content any different.  

With this verdict, the parents of a dead girl gained access to their daughter’s Facebook account after a long legal dispute, which the US company had previously refused. The parents hoped that the private chat messages on the profile page would provide information about the circumstances of her death. 

This judgment on the regulation of a person’s digital legacy is considered a landmark not only for Facebook but also for many other online accounts.  

As an heir, how do I gain access to the deceased person’s online accounts? 

If you, as the heir, cannot find any access details, the next best thing is to try to access the person’s last saved passwords via the browser they were using. How successful you are depends on whether the deceased allowed their passwords to be saved automatically. It’s difficult, but doable. Here’s how: 

• In Firefox, simply click the hamburger icon (the one with three horizontal bars) at the top right and select Passwords from the context menu.  
• For Chrome, select the kebab icon (the one with three dots) on the top right, then click Settings. Next, click the hamburger icon (the one with three horizontal bars) on the top left, followed by Auto-fill. Saved access details are displayed under Password Manager. 
• If you use Edge, select the meatballs icon (the one with three horizontal dots) on the top right and click Settings. Then click Profiles in the menu bar on the left and you can see the access data stored in this browser under Passwords. 

As you can see, a password safe like Avira Password Manager makes it much easier for surviving relatives to view and manage your digital legacy.  

A death certificate is essential to take care of your digital legacy 

Almost all online service providers require a death certificate, making it essential if you need to deal with digital legacy matters. You’ll usually receive several copies of this important document from the undertaker you hire.  

Dealing with financial services requires a certificate of inheritance 

When it comes to assets that are to be transferred to heirs, you must be able to present a certificate of inheritance in addition to the death certificate, with which you can identify yourself as the beneficiary.  

You can apply for this certificate of inheritance at the probate court. As a rule, the district court in whose district the deceased was last registered is competent. A notary can also apply for a certificate of inheritance for you. 

Because banks and other traditional financial institutions often do not have automated processes in place, you must check with each institution to establish what documents are required to gain access to a deceased person’s account. 

Digital legacy rules for social media  

In the case of many online platforms and with social media, you can now take precautions yourself and, for example, store legacy contacts. 

• Facebook:
  On this platform, you decide yourself what should happen to your profile in the event of your passing. The account can be memorialized upon death, continued by others, or permanently deleted. You can decide who should have access to your data or act as a legacy contact to look after your memorialized profile. For this, a legacy contact needs a death certificate, which must be presented to the company (Meta).
   
• Instagram:
  On Instagram, surviving relatives can also either delete the account or set it to memorial status. A separate form is available for this purpose. When memorialized, the account will no longer appear public, for example it will no longer appear as “suggested for you”.
   
• WhatsApp, eBay, PayPal, Amazon:
  With these services, there are currently no specific options to manage the deceased person’s account. However, heirs and/or relatives can contact the providers directly to gain access to the deceased person’s account. And here too, you need official proof of the death of the account holder, such as a death certificate.
   
• Twitter:
  Twitter appears to be a bit more complicated, as it requires a copy of the death certificate and proof of identity of the person requesting deletion of the account. As such, it would definitely make life easier for your digital legacy executor if you were to provide them with the access details.
   
• Google:
  If you have a Google account, you can use the Inactive Account Manager to decide for yourself what to do with your data in the event of your passing. You can choose to either share it with selected people or set it up to be deleted.
   
• Apple:
  Since December 2021, Apple has allowed you to specify legacy contacts who can access your data in iCloud in the event of your passing. To set up the feature, see the Apple support page.

cybernews.com

RoboForm Review (2024) - Is It Trustworthy & Safe? | Cybernews

Catherine Hiley Contributor Fact-checked by Gabrielė Švažaitė

24–31 minutes

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RoboForm is one of the oldest password managers, spanning all the way back to the late 90s. Being a senior of the market, RoboForm ensures its place of being one of the best password managers out there. It keeps your passwords and personal information secure, makes your life easier with features like its password filling service, and allows you to store your login details for all your accounts in one secure place.

In this RoboForm review, I will analyze the app’s strengths and weaknesses in terms of security, pricing, ease of use, and more.

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⭐ Rating:	4.7 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
🥇 Overall rank:	#3 out of #17
💵 Price:	From $0.99/month
✂️ Free version:	Yes
🌐 Browser extensions:	Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Microsoft Edge, and Safari
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Visit RoboForm

RoboForm pros and cons

Things we like

• Password saving works well on computer
• Mobile apps are well designed
• Installation process is easy
• Cloud syncing works efficiently
• The 'Free' Subscription is a good introduction to the service providing you have the free trial
• Free trial with no credit card information needed
• Independently audited

Things we don't like

• Some elements not well advertised or explained
• Live chat is reserved only for paid users

Visit RoboForm to learn more about the features

RoboForm features

RoboForm is a quality password manager loaded with useful features. For example, it fills in web forms, supports various platforms, has a password generator, and allows you to securely send login information. Here's a full list of the features you’ll find:

• Unlimited logins
• Fill web forms
• Password generator
• Password assessment
• Dark web monitoring
• Securely send logins
• Receive emergency access
• Applications logins
• Manage bookmarks
• Use RoboForm for TOTP authentication
• Passkeys

Some password manager connoisseurs will spot the lack of features like Travel Mode or an integrated VPN, but despite that, RoboForm ensured an almost flawless experience.

Unlimited Logins

RoboForm offers the ability to store an unlimited number of passwords on its system. Whether you enjoy binge-watching shows on Amazon or Netflix, or you prefer a bit of retail therapy, your account password can be stored easily with just one click.

Just enter your details into the login fields, and then click Save when the option appears. From then on, the programme will provide those details when you visit that site.

Password and login credentials can also be entered manually on the RoboForm mobile apps. More on them a bit further down.

Password assessment

RoboForm’s Security Centre tracks the strength of passwords currently in use. It also notes whether duplicated and reused passwords are on file.

The center indicates whether a password is weak, medium, or strong. However, while it happily recommends using the Generator, there does not appear to be any visible guidance explaining what makes a password vulnerable.

There is extra information provided on the company website but not in the program itself.

Extra advice about using capital letters, symbols, and numbers in passwords may prove useful for the fresh-faced user just starting to understand the importance of their Internet security.

On the other hand, the Security Centre will tell you whether any of your passwords have been leaked onto the Dark Web. Simply go to the Compromised tab and you'll be easily able to change all the passwords that are currently unsafe (with the help of RoboForm's password generator). As of today, the feature is available for Windows and Mac users.

Fill web forms

This provides a similar function to that of the password filler but for forms instead, which can save you a lot of time.

RoboForm offers a range of templates, including personal information such as name, email and phone number and passport details, as well as a form for your car’s information.

You can also do this for credit card details as well. Just head to the RoboForm app or website, choose your template, fill it in, and then select the info on the required website.

Securely send logins

These days, sharing details like a Netflix password has become commonplace. And RoboForm seeks to accommodate this need by allowing you to share credentials with others.

There is, however, a caveat. The recipient in question must also have a RoboForm account to access the credentials. This is a free process, but if your colleagues, friends, and family aren’t using RoboForm, it’s probably not much use to you.

On a brighter note, it is quite easy to import your existing passwords to your RoboForm account from other password managers.

Receive emergency access

Free account holders are able to be granted emergency access to another person’s account. If an Premium account holder deems it necessary, then their chosen candidate effectively has the same rights as the original user.

This may come in handy for those that want to hand off their digital legacy after they leave a job or they just need an extra pair of trusted hands.

Application logins

This is designed to do exactly what it says on the tin. As well as having passwords saved from web browsers like Chrome, RoboForm can also work on desktop applications like iTunes.

Password Generator

This is a really useful feature that generates strong passwords, which can consist of numbers, capital letters, and symbols. You can also specify the length of the passcode, in addition to choosing to exclude similar characters. In this way, you never again have to try to think up a hard-to-guess password.

There's also something special about the Password Generator of RoboForm. It allows you to produce extremely long passwords - the upper limit of characters is 512!

Manage Bookmarks

This handy feature allows a favourite site to be stored. Given that most browsers offer this function, you probably won’t need it.

It’s also not as intuitive as one would hope, requiring more clicks than Google Chrome’s own bookmark service and may lead to confusion. To successfully save the page, you have to click Save forms for current page.

This is as opposed to the much more straightforward sounding Create new Bookmark. It’s a small inconvenience, but it’s one that will likely see it ignored, as you’re probably better off using your browser’s bookmarks instead.

TOTP authenticator

From now on, RoboForm offers a feature that's truly unique among password managers - you can use your RoboForm account for TOTP (time-based one-time password) 2-factor authentication. In other words, you won't need additional apps like Google Authenticator. This will allow you to log into your various accounts more quickly, as RoboForm will simply autofill the needed field for you.

At the moment, the feature is available for Windows and macOS users on the following browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera, and Brave. However, it will soon be available for mobile users as well.

Passkeys

Recently, RoboForm introduced the option to store passkeys (passwordless authentication) in their apps. With RoboForm, you can use the passkeys on any device you have RoboForm installed, not just the device on which the passkey was created. To save the newly-generated passkey in the RoboForm app, ensure that the Auto-save option is enabled. The passkey storage option is currently available on on desktop apps and the browser extensions, with iOS and Android updates coming soon.

Is RoboForm safe?

Yes, RoboForm is extremely secure. Its server is encrypted with AES256, which is about the strongest encryption around. All RoboForm data is encrypted and decrypted locally, never on servers. This is the case whether you’re accessing your data via the RoboForm web portal, the local application, or your browser extension. A single master password, which you must set and remember, holds the key to all of your data. Finally, RoboForm has a range of security features to help keep your passwords safe.

This does not mean it is infallible though. Hackers always look for weaknesses while the best password managers fight to improve. The most obvious weakness is the user. After all, if you don’t use a strong master password, or give it up to someone untrustworthy, then you may well be in trouble.

On top of that, RoboForm further demonstrates its commitment to safety through a recent independent audit performed by reputable experts at Secfault Security in May 2023. The evaluation included Windows and Mac desktop clients, iOS and Android mobile apps, as well as a browser extension and RoboForm's web portals. Throughout the 36-day testing period, RoboForm's team diligently addressed all identified vulnerabilities, with the effectiveness of the fixes validated by Secfault Security.

All this said, let’s take a closer look at RoboForm security features.

Security Centre

The Security Centre monitors your passwords and tells you how vulnerable they are to attack. RoboForm calculates the security of your password in terms of the following features: how many times the password was reused, the number of duplicated login credentials, and the strength of an individual entry.

This is really reassuring as you know it’s constantly monitoring your passwords and will flag up any potential issues.

Two-factor authentication

2FA is a feature that adds an extra layer of security and makes it all but impossible for a hacker to access your account. So, to login, you'll have to use a one-time password so that the service knows that it's really you. RoboForm supports this feature with all of its plans.

These handy one-time passwords can be sent via email or SMS. Depending on your phone type, you can also set face and fingerprint recognition. In addition to this, RoboForm supports all the main authentication apps, including Google Authenticator, Authy, and Microsoft Authenticator. However, keep in mind that RoboForm doesn't work with Yubikey.

RoboForm plans and pricing

Now we come to the important bit: how much does RoboForm cost? Well, there are a few different plans, starting with a basic free version and moving up to more premium paid options. But which one should you go for and how much could it set you back? Let’s take a look.

	Free account	RoboForm Premium	Roboform Family
Cost	Free	$0.99/month	$1.59/month
Number of items	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited
Number of people allowed to use it	1	1	5

Keep in mind that each version offers different features. The table below shows you what kind of features you can get depending on which subscription you purchase:

Version	Features
RoboForm Free	Form filling, 2FA, password audit, multi-platform support, securely send logins, receive emergency access, application logins, bookmark management, password generator
RoboForm Premium	Everything in Free plus password sync, cloud backup, secure shared folder, grant emergency access, web access, priority 24/7 support
Roboform Family	Everything in Premium plus 5 different accounts

Visit RoboForm

RoboForm Free

RoboForm has a pretty great free version that is as useful as some paid password managers. This tier comes with all RoboForm’s best features, including unlimited logins, two-factor authentication, form filling, password audit, and a password generator.

To sign up, all you have to do is enter a few basic details for an online account, download the desktop app, and you’re done. And it’s not just a free trial, either. You can use RoboForm’s free version for as long as you like without having to pay a penny.

RoboForm Premium

If the free version is not enough, then RoboForm offers the Premium package.

This provides features such as syncing to ensure that all of your devices have the most up-to-date codes and data. Premium subscribers also gain access to a “cloud backup” service, accessing services via the web, two-factor authentication, and 24/7 priority support.

When purchasing RoboForm from the website, you pay by the year. One year will cost you $23.88.

If that’s not enough, you can select either three or five years. The latter costs $99.50. RoboForm is keen to point out the 16% saving you can make by pledging your loyalty long-term.

This license is intended for one person and their devices. If it's your family that needs the protection of RoboForm, then the security firm has a solution for you.

Roboform Family plan

The RoboForm Family plan provides the same features in the other two brackets, but with more licences to go around. Five users are welcome to use a single subscription.

A year’s subscription will set you back $47.75. As with the individual offer, subscriptions are chosen from a choice of, one, three, and five years.

Loyalty is also rewarded. A 10% and 16% savings applies to the three-year and five-year packages respectively.

RoboForm for Business

For the companies that need a more professionally centred solution, the password management service has a corporate focused variant as well.

The list of perks includes:

• Centralised employee onboarding
• Centralised policy deployment
• Secure group sharing
• Role based access permissions
• Unlimited number of admins
• Additional two factor authentication
• Active directory integration
• Password audit for users and groups
• Advanced reporting
• Dedicated tech support

The bill will depend on the size of the organization. A subscription is charged per user per year. When selecting a single-year package for a single user, a subscription is charged at $34.95.

As an example, if there are 30 people using the licence at the company at the yearly rate, then the total cost comes to $1,048.50. This includes a $150 discount offered by the website. This discount appears to apply to orders of 11 or more. When we entered 11 into the order space, we received a $44 discount.

Further savings can be achieved by taking out a long-term deal. It’s 15% for three years and 25% for five.

RoboForm Free vs RoboForm Premium: is it worth the upgrade?

Yes. The RoboForm Premium plan comes with so many extra features that it’s definitely worth the upgrade.

Free users don’t get access to items many would call necessities. This includes synchronization across platforms and devices, web browser access, and priority 24/7 support. Potentially beneficial features like a secure share folder and cloud backup service are also unavailable to those unwilling to spend extra.

The main drawback of the free version is the lack of password syncing, especially if you use multiple devices. You see, the feature allows for a password entered on your mobile phone to be available on your desktop, and vice versa. Without it, you'll have to sync the passwords across all your devices manually.

What platforms does RoboForm support?

RoboForm is accessible on lots of platforms and devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. You can also get an extension for your favorite browser. The browser extensions are available on Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Microsoft Edge, and Safari (Mac only). As you can see, the selection is pretty versatile, which means that RoboForm's unlimited connections option will really come in handy.

Keep in mind that, for Windows and Mac users, RoboForm's web application is the main version of the password manager as it gets updated more often than the desktop version, thus looking more modern and running more smoothly.

RoboForm on web browser and extensions

The RoboForm website experience is the best one that you'll get from this password manager. The slick but simple-looking interface allows you to manage your credentials without much problem. On the other hand, it might be a bit difficult to find certain options.

The user can easily see and edit existing passwords and identities. However, keep in mind that if you want to create a new identity, you need to click on an existing one first.

Identities can only be created through the website, the extension just redirects you to the website when you click on "Create new identity". It is also available after pressing the "+" button when the "all" tab is selected.

On the other hand, the browser extension is the one that displays the code for TOTP authentication.

Working in tandem with each other, the RoboForm website and web extensions is a good offering. Just don't forget that you must have the extension installed if you want to access the web application.

Using RoboForm desktop application

Once you’ve got it set up, the RoboForm desktop app’s interface looks similar to Windows file explorer. There’s nothing flashy about it, but it is fairly straightforward to use.

Most of the major options are placed in plain view and it won’t take more than a couple of minutes to figure out the major features.

However, there are a few small issues that hurt the user experience.

Options are presented on the left-hand side in a prominent fashion. Logins are presented as the top option. By clicking it, you can see all of your saved passwords. From here you can either single tap the passwords displayed on the left-hand side, or double-tap them on a second interface at the center of the screen. From there, you can edit or copy and paste the info.

It may look unremarkable, but that’s probably a plus when you’re trying to get things done. It’s quite straightforward to see what’s going on and make adjustments.

Filling in forms is nice and simple although it may take you a second to adjust. The form filling facility is actually listed under a tab called Identities.

Elsewhere on the menu, you can access the Security Centre and add contacts and Safenotes. The latter is useful for storing things like a locker or lockbox combination.

The setup offers a verdict on the strength of your chosen passwords but the only advice it gives is to use the password generator.

RoboForm app for mobile phones

The RoboForm mobile app interface on both Apple and Android is arguably even better than the desktop version.

It’s easy to set up and lets you get on with filling out your identity information straight away. On certain documents like the credit card sheet, there is even the option to scan details in.

The app is clean and tidy, making the experience of getting around a pleasant one. Some may have an issue with the level of security offered to protect the information. Upon initial set up the user must enter only a four-digit code. And if a device has the capability there is also the option to use a fingerprint or face unlock.

Given that the primary function of RoboForm is to keep the most personal details secure, it’s concerning that the default protection is a mere four digit code (you are presented with the PIN setup screen right after logging in with your account).

There is a skip button, which allows you to add biometrics later on, but most users will use whatever option is presented to them first. The only additional option is available in the settings and it allows you to use the master password to log into the app.

Equally disappointing is the password login system. The software struggled to work with other handset apps.

While on Android, we found that even with passwords already on our database, RoboForm struggled to fill the login space. As we tried to access Netflix, we were first asked to log into the password app, before being given a shortlist which did not contain our Netflix credentials.

When we tapped Show all passwords, we were greeted by a No files found message. Our attempts with Twitter proved more fruitful though.

We also encountered issues with the RoboForm Apple app. Logging into apps and sites with a password already on file was hit and miss. When it worked, it did so quite smoothly. But when we tried to get RoboForm to capture a fresh password, it was having none of it. Despite typing in email and code character by character, the software didn’t even notice.

Customer service and support

Your customer support options will depend on your subscription. If you're a free user, you can contact them via their ticket support system. We tried the system and got an answer in a couple of days. Plus, you can find answers to most of your questions in the RoboForm manual.

Premium users with Roboform Premium subscription are also getting live chat and phone support. The package includes 24/7 support, 365 days a year. They'll also get priority online support and chat support from 9am-5pm EST Monday to Friday.

For those wishing to access phone support, they can, but not in a typical fashion. There is no RoboForm support phone number a user can call. Instead, customers can place a callback request on the customer support web form. From there, a callback time can be scheduled with you.

RoboForm alternatives

So how does RoboForm stack up against its competitors? Let’s take a look.

NordPass

NordPass has no limit for how many passwords you can store in the app. On the free version, you will be restricted to one device only, so cross-platform syncing capabilities are somewhat limited.

Other than that, both password managers are pretty similar, offering such features as a password generator, two-factor authentication, and multi-platform support.

The cheapest NordPass plan will cost you $1.43 a month, while the least expensive RoboForm option starts from $0.99 a month.

Read more: NordPass review

LastPass

RoboForm is a better option than LastPass because of security.

To begin with, LastPass had a security breach in 2019. While it has been fixed soon after, such a mistake doesn't give points to its protective quality. On top of that, if you run into any issues that need immediate answers, RoboForm has a live chat for paid users, while LastPass doesn't.

Much like RoboForm, LastPass offers a free tier as well as paid options. Billed annually, the monthly cost of a premium LastPass plan works out to $3.00/month, while the family plan is $4.00/month.

Across the year, RoboForm works out cheaper. RoboForm's website promotes that the premium plan costs $1.99/month, while the family plan is $3.99/month. Keep in mind that you're paying for an annual subscription though, so you'll have to pay it all upfront.

Read more: LastPass review

Dashlane

Dashlane is better than RoboForm for those who are willing to get a paid subscription. However, if you're looking for the best free tier between the two, then RoboForm is the winner.

Dashlane provides a limited free tier. And password saving is limited to just 50 on one account.

But it’s worth noting that Dashlane premium customers get a VPN as part of the deal. If you’re keen on keeping your IP address private, then a VPN is certainly a useful tool.

The software is pricier than some at $3.75 a month for an individual plan. If you need a service short-term then it is cheaper than RoboForm. If you're going for a year or longer, RoboForm will end up costing you less.

You can, however, make savings by switching to an annual subscription.

Dashlane may be the one for those who fancy having both a password manager and a VPN. The package also comes with the added advantage of payment flexibility.

Read more: Dashlane review

1Password

RoboForm is better than 1Password because it offers a free version for those who want free password security.

Unlike RoboForm, 1Password does not offer a free tier. Although it does offer similar features such as unlimited password logins management, as well as the safe storage of credit card information.

Both password managers can see and restore previous passwords. Very handy for those prone to accidentally hitting the delete button, or making mistakes in general.

The website also hints at a feature called Travel Mode that will remove sensitive data from your devices when you’re traveling abroad and restore access with a click when you arrive.

Both the individual and family plans come with a free two-week trial. Pricing works out as $2.99 and $4.99 respectively. This is billed annually.

Read more: 1Password review

Video review

Instead of reading, you can also check out our RoboForm review on YouTube. You'll find out all things RoboForm related, including features, security, ease of use, and even differences between the free and premium versions.

RoboForm review: the bottom line

Overall, RoboForm is a great security tool. Interfaces are relatively easy to use and password saving is efficient, especially on desktop. While I did have some trouble trying to save passwords from a mobile app, I managed to fix it and run everything smoothly.

When it comes to security, there’s nothing I can complain about. The app uses top-grade AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard at the moment. I also like all the security features and the fact that everything is encrypted and decrypted locally.

RoboForm may be for the user who has enjoyed a premium free trial on the free tier and wants to continue. Those who stay on the free tier after a trial period will find it harder work to keep their password management together.

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Other password manager reviews from Cybernews:

NordPass review: see why it's one of the top password managers this year

Enpass review: good basic password manager

Zoho Vault review: secure, easy to use, best for multiple users

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FAQs

Here, we’ll answer all your frequently asked questions about RoboForm.

Is RoboForm really free?

Yes. RoboForm is a free download. Although, with a paid subscription more features are made available to you.

Where are RoboForm passwords stored?

If you are using the Sync option, all your data is stored on a secure server in the United States. All RoboForm data is encrypted and decrypted locally and never on Roboform’s servers. This is the case whether you’re accessing your data via the RoboForm web portal, the local application, or the browser extension.

Can RoboForm be hacked?

It’s very unlikely, provided you choose a strong master password. If you don’t have the right settings engaged, then all a hacker would need is the master password to hack into your account. But so long as you’ve got a strong, safe password, your account should be perfectly safe.

Has RoboForm undergone a third-party security audit?

Yes, RoboForm has undergone a third-party security audit in May, 2023. The evaluation included all facets of the RoboForm platform, such as Windows and Mac desktop clients, iOS and Android mobile apps, as well as the web portals such as online.roboform.com and start.roboform.com, proving that the platform is private and secure throughout all platforms.

 

How to Pass On Your Passwords After You Die

Kim Key

pcmag.com

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My spouse and I share responsibilities when it comes to paying the mortgage and utility bills each month. In the horrible event of one’s demise, the other will need to be able to log into our accounts to keep the home up and running. It’s not just household accounts that need consideration; we also face the potentially long and frustrating process of shutting down online bank accounts, social media accounts, video streaming service subscriptions, and many other online accounts after one of us dies. Luckily, the emergence of password managers with digital inheritance options means both of us can access our household and personal accounts when the other cannot.

Giving a trusted person access to your password manager vault could be the most useful legacy you leave behind. PCMag has a guide for preparing your digital life for death. In addition to that resource, I created this list of the best password managers that offer digital inheritance options.

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The Best Password Managers With Digital Legacy Choices

Take a look at PCMag’s reviews for the best password management options that offer digital legacy options. The password managers are listed in alphabetical order. Click the See All link after Dashlane to see the full list.

Talk about your online account inheritance plan with the people who will receive your passwords when you die. Let them know which password manager you use, and leave written instructions for accessing your digital vault. 

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How to Keep Your Online Accounts Secure After You Die

Each password manager listed above has its own password inheritance system. Some allow you to choose whether you want to grant beneficiaries full control of every item in your vault (which may contain credit card numbers and bank account details) or limit access to certain sections. If you're, say, planning to undergo significant surgery, and you are unable to access your accounts for just a short time, there are password managers that let you give vault access to a trusted contact while you are away. When the specified time limits expire, the password manager locks down again until you can access it.

Keep in mind that ownership of an online banking account password is not the same as ownership of someone else’s money. Taking money from an account that is not yours can land you in legal hot water. If you find yourself needing to shut down someone’s bank accounts after their death, get in touch with the bank before attempting to access the account. Banks have their own protocol for handling account terminations and handing over financial legacies. If you want to make sure someone will be able to receive the money in one of your accounts after your death, be sure to name them as a beneficiary on the account or have them listed as a joint account holder. Giving them your banking login information won't help.

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RoboForm Review 2024: Affordable, but Basic

Sara J. Nguyen

allaboutcookies.org

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RoboForm password manager has all the standard features you expect from a password manager, like autofill and military-grade encryption, and it has one of the most affordable prices we've seen for a password manager. We also liked the Identity feature, which lets you save personal data like addresses and credit cards to enter in online forms. 

But there are some potential deal breakers, like its slow customer support and confusing website. We'll go over the cost, features, data security, and more in this Roboform review.

RoboForm review at a glance

Price	Starts at $0.99/mo
Free version	Yes
Browser extensions	Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Opera
Password sharing	Yes — unlimited devices
Encryption	AES-256 encryption
Two-factor authentication	Yes
Password generator	Yes
Form filler	Yes
Digital legacy	Yes (paid plans only)
Learn more	Get Roboform

RoboForm pros and cons

Pros

• Affordable plans
• No history of data leaks or being hacked
• Identity feature saves all your personal information

Cons

• Customer service can be slow
• Confusing advertising
• Free plan lacks key features

How much does RoboForm cost?

RoboForm has a free plan with limited features available. If you're looking for additional features, then you'll need to upgrade to the Premium plan. 

With Roboform Free, you can only receive emergency access to accounts, securely send (but not share individual items), and there are no secure shared folders. Roboform Free also lacks access on all devices, web access, and your data will still be synced with Roboform'ser servers instead of just on your device.

For multiple users, you should consider the Family plan, which covers up to five Premium accounts.

RoboForm plan comparison

Plan	RoboForm Free	RoboForm Premium	RoboForm Family
Price	Free	$0.99/mo	$3.98/mo
Number of users	1	1	5
Password vault
Autofill
Password generator
Password audit
Two-factor authentication
Data breach monitoring
Cloud backup
Emergency access
Secure share and send
Secure shared folder
Web access
Details	View Plan	View Plan	View Plan

Roboform is an affordable password manager, but it's not the most affordable one available. NordPass can be slightly cheaper for an annual subscription, and it becomes even more budget-friendly if you opt for a two-year plan. Its Family plan also accounts for six Premium accounts, which is one more than Roboform. However, other services like Keeper and LastPass are at least a dollar more expensive per month.

Roboform's free plan leaves a lot to be desired in comparison to other password managers. For example, NordPass has syncing across all devices included in its free plan. 

While not clearly advertised, RoboForm will issue a refund within 30 days of purchase if you meet certain conditions listed in its terms of use.

RoboForm features

RoboForm has all the essential features you need in a password manager. It can create strong passwords, store them securely, autofill forms, and help you stay organized with its folders. There are also other useful features, including emergency access, Identities to store all of your personal information, and a bookmark organizer.

RoboForm is also fairly easy to use with a simple interface and it provides a walkthrough to help you import your passwords when you open an account.

Password sharing

Password sharing is an easy process. You only need the recipient's email address to securely share logins. However, the recipient will need a paid RoboForm plan to receive it. Depending on your plan, you can share individual links or folders.

With the free plan, you can only send individual items. The send option is for one-off transfers, while the share option syncs changes automatically to all recipients. So if you ever change a password after sharing it, the recipient will automatically have the updated password.

There's also an option to customize viewing permissions. You can choose between login only (can't see password but can use it), read and write (can view and edit), and full control (admin rights).

Two-factor authentication

RoboForm offers two-factor authentication (2FA) for all users. Passwordless authentication works by providing another barrier for potential hackers to get through. Besides using the master password, 2FA requires a second verification method of your identity.

To enable 2FA, you'll need to use either your email address, phone number, or a third-party authenticator app, like Google Authenticator. Once turned on, you'll receive codes to prove your identity. RoboForm also has options for biometric authentication, such as Face ID for iPhone and Intelligent Scan for Android. 

You can also enable one-time passwords, which will be sent via email or SMS, to enter your account.

Password generator

RoboForm has a top-notch password generator. You can customize the settings to create passwords of a certain character length or add and exclude numbers, capital letters, lowercase letters, and special characters.

There are a few ways to access the password generator. You can use the RoboForm website or find it in the app under Tools. 

RoboForm can also suggest passwords while you're signing up for an account. A RoboForm logo will appear near the password field and clicking on it will give you the option to generate a password.

Autofill

Autofill is the ultimate convenience feature of password managers. A simple click can enter your login credentials or credit card information in web forms. You'll never need to manually type out this information again with automatic form filling.

But first, you'll need to enter this information in RoboForm. This feature is known as Identity, and you can save personal data like:

• Addresses
• Credit cards
• Banking account information
• Passport information
• Car details

Roboform also has a SafeNotes feature for securely storing important information that may not fit one of the above categories. This could include Wi-Fi router passwords, insurance policy details, phone lock codes, and more.

Password strength report

RoboForm’s Security Center evaluates the quality of your current passwords. Once it's done with its review, it will share password security red flags, such as:

• Compromised passwords
• Weak passwords
• Reused passwords
• Login credentials stored in more than one RoboForm account

You can also change the settings to exclude specific logins from your password security score.

Digital legacy

RoboForm's digital legacy feature, known as emergency access, is available only for paid plans. It can be used to recover your account or grant access to another individual in the event of a death or incapacitation.

To grant someone emergency access to your account, you'll need to update your privacy settings. All you need to grant emergency access is your trusted emergency contact's email address and the number of days your account must be inactive before access is granted. 

The range of timeout periods to choose from starts at 12 hours and can be as long as 30 days. The recipient will need a RoboForm account to accept your invitation and gain emergency access to your account. That means Roboform Free users can still receive emergency access from Premium accounts.

Our RoboForm experience

We tested RoboForm’s Chrome extension and its Android app. Our first impression was that the interface was clean and easy to use. We also liked how the setup process made it easy to import passwords from other password managers, like Google Password Manager and LastPass, and CSV files.

Then we tested how well RoboForm worked when signing up for a new account on Reddit. The RoboForm logo appeared next to the password field and selecting it created a unique password.

During our research, we noticed that RoboForm didn't do a great job of informing us of its features. For example, we didn't think dark web monitoring was included based on the plan comparison on its website. But as it turns out, the Security Center does have a section showing compromised passwords.

There were a couple of other quirks we noticed while testing RoboForm. Its website doesn't advertise a free trial or money-back guarantee, but that's not actually the case. According to its terms of use, you can request a refund within 30 days of purchase. When we installed the Chrome extension, we automatically got a 30-day free trial of the Premium plan.

Overall, RoboForm is a great password manager, but it doesn't make it clear what it offers unless you're willing to dive deep into the app or read the fine print.

RoboForm privacy policy

The RoboForm privacy policy is hard to read. Previously, it was a block of text that wasn't clearly organized. Now, the page has added some spacing but it might still be hard to read for some.

RoboForm doesn't share a lot about what it does to protect your data beyond storing your data in U.S.-based servers. However, it does share the exact information it collects about you. RoboForm claims it only collects data necessary to operate, and it doesn't send your personal data to other businesses or individuals outside of business operations.

RoboForm third-party audits

RoboForm published a third-party audit of its data security and password storage procedures in May 2023. The assessment was conducted by Secfault Security and covered all aspects of the RoboForm platform over a 36-day testing period. 

Although Secfault Security initially found identified some vulnerabilities, Roboform was quick to remediate all issues of medium or high severity before the retest. Thus, Roboform was found to meet a reasonable standard of security. 

Is RoboForm safe to use?

RoboForm is fairly safe to use. While RoboForm has never been hacked or involved in a data leak, the privacy policy is confusing, so some people may not feel comfortable using RoboForm without understanding it.

RoboForm customer service

RoboForm offers the following support tools for customers:

• Help Center
• Manual
• 24/7 email support for all users (paid users get priority)
• Live chat available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST (for paid users only)

• Phone support available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST (for paid users only)

We couldn't find the live chat in the Android app or Chrome extension. It was only available on RoboForm's support center. To use it, we had to enter our name and email address. We got a speedy response, and the representative was helpful.

When we previosly tried out the ticket support, it felt like a throwback to the 1990s with its outdated user interface. Upon revisiting the ticket site, we were pleased to find a more modern interface.

While it's a 24/7 service, it took about 11 hours to get a response. We received an email, but we couldn't directly respond to it. We had to log back in to the RoboForm support center to message back. While the response was helpful and even included a link for further information, it wasn't fast and it was a poor user experience.

Overall, the live chat is a nice feature, but if you need support outside of business hours it will take a long time. 

RoboForm compatibility

Roboform is a great choice if device compatibility is an essential feature for you. It works with all major operating systems and web browsers, including:

• Windows
• macOS
• Linux
  
• Chromebook
• iOS
• Android
• Google Chrome
• Mozilla Firefox
• Safari
• Microsoft Edge
• Mozilla Firefox
• Opera

Roboform alternatives

Roboform might not be your cup of tea and that's ok. We've collected a list of alternative password managers we can vouch for:

• NordPass: NordPass is a standout in the password manager field since it comes from Nord Security. It uses XChaCha 20 encryption for strong and fast protection, participates in both external and internal audits, and it uses zero-knowledge architecture to keep your data encrypted.

  Get NordPass | Read Our NordPass Review

• Keeper: Keeper is a premium password manager, but it offers premium security standards. On top of all the standard password manager features, Keeper comes with dark web monitoring, offline vault access, and a self-destruct option if there have been too many failed login attempts.

  Get Keeper | Read Our Keeper Review

• Bitdefender Password Manager: If you're looking for another easy-to-use password manager, Bitdefender is a great option. It offers all the features you'd expect from a password manager, like a form filler, password strength reports, and easy password imports, at an affordable price. 

  Get Bitdefender Password Manager | Read Our Bitdefender Password Manager Review

RoboForm FAQs

Bottom line: Is RoboForm good?

RoboFormhas the groundwork for an excellent password manager. The app and browser extension are easy to use, and we had no problems using features like the password generator or autofill. There are some minor issues, like it's hard-to-read privacy policy and its slow customer support, but those aren't critical. 

Overall, RoboForm password manager may be a good choice for people on a budget who are satisfied with RoboForm's long history of never being hacked or experiencing a data leak.

However, if you're looking for a different verified secure password manager, then you might want to consider an alternative like NordPass. 

Author Details

Sara J. Nguyen is a freelance writer specializing in cybersecurity. She aims to help people protect their data while enjoying technology. She has written about online privacy and tech for over 5 years for several organizations. When she's not writing about the latest cybersecurity trends, you can find her on LinkedIn.

Chat started on 01 Apr 2024, 04:30 PM (GMT+0)
(04:30:58)	*** Stephen Pendergast joined the chat ***
(04:30:58)	Stephen Pendergast I want to set up a digital legazy for my online acounts
(04:33:19)	Stephen Pendergast Is there a guide to help me set up a digital legacy to go with my will and living trust?
(04:34:34)	*** Kedar joined the chat ***
(04:35:27)	Kedar Hey there, Stephen. Apologies for the delay. Can you elaborate a bit more on the extent of what it is you are attempting to do?
(04:37:25)	Stephen Pendergast I have been using roboform since the 90s and have all my banking and other accounts. I am preparing an estate plan with living trust and will. Want to set up all my accounts to be passed on.
(04:38:48)	Stephen Pendergast I also have a lot of digital ebooks and media purchased through Amazon
(04:41:16)	Kedar Understood. In regards to the RoboForm Data, we dont necessarily have a Digital Legacy option. However, you can designate someone close to you to have Emergency Access to your data in the event something unforeseen were to occur.
(04:41:28)	Kedar I will provide more information on this
(04:41:34)	Kedar These articles will provide a bit of insight on this: https://help.roboform.com/hc/en-us/articles/115005664827-What-is-Emergency-Access-and-how-does-it-work- https://help.roboform.com/hc/en-us/articles/115005825828-How-to-set-up-Emergency-Access
(04:42:10)	Kedar However, the best option would be to ensure that you have your Master Password documented, and provide that password to those you entrust your data to.
(04:44:11)	Stephen Pendergast yes, i've done the master password in a sealed envelope. Just thougtht there might be a guide, like for business or estate planning. I've seen some for other products.
(04:44:43)	Kedar Unfortunately we have yet to implement this, sir.
(04:45:15)	Stephen Pendergast ok, just asking. that's all for now.
(04:45:41)	Kedar Best regards, sir
(04:51:51)	*** Stephen Pendergast left the chat ***