Glossary: Digital Asset Inventory

A digital asset inventory is a structured list of your online accounts, digital assets, and access information.

It typically includes email accounts, social media profiles, cryptocurrencies, domain names, subscription services, and other digital assets you may own or use.

What a digital asset inventory does

A digital asset inventory provides a central overview of your digital life.

It helps:

• identify all relevant accounts and assets
• ensure nothing is forgotten or lost
• make access possible when needed

Without it, digital assets are often overlooked or inaccessible.

Why you need a digital asset inventory

Most people underestimate how many digital accounts they have.

Without a digital asset inventory:

• important accounts may be permanently inaccessible
• financial assets (e.g. crypto) can be lost
• subscriptions and services may continue unnoticed

With a clear inventory:

• your digital presence can be managed properly
• valuable assets are not lost
• your wishes for online accounts can be followed

What a digital asset inventory includes

A digital asset inventory usually covers:

• email accounts
• social media profiles
• online banking and financial platforms
• cryptocurrencies and wallets
• domains, websites, or online businesses
• subscription services and cloud storage

It can also include instructions on how each asset should be handled.

What a digital asset inventory does NOT do

A digital asset inventory does not:

• replace a password manager
• automatically grant access to accounts
• override platform-specific policies

It is a guide and reference, not a direct access tool.

When you need a digital asset inventory

You need a digital asset inventory if you use online services—which applies to almost everyone.

It becomes especially important if:

• you manage financial assets online
• you run digital businesses or websites
• you want control over what happens to your accounts

Common mistakes

Some common issues include:

• not documenting all accounts
• storing access information insecurely
• not updating the inventory over time
• not informing trusted people that it exists

An inventory is only useful if it is complete, secure, and maintained.

Related documents

• Digital Legacy
• Password Manager Access
• Email Account Instructions
• Last Will and Testament

Practical note

A digital asset inventory should be:

• accessible to trusted individuals when needed
• kept up to date
• stored securely