A person’s digital footprint is a shadow following them forever. People do not know how important it is to review and make sure what is being put out on the internet is wanted there. The definition of digital footprint is the information about a particular person that exists on the internet as a result of their online activity. Digital footprint can be classified as passive or active, but what is the difference?
Active footprint is a result of a person’s intentional posting on social media. This includes posting a photo or comment, liking a post or deliberately clicking into a certain website. Passive footprint is created unintentionally through accepting cookies, clicking on ads or websites by accident, and search/shopping history. Once you accept cookies on a website, it allows the website to access data someone would not want others to have access to otherwise.
The biggest danger is regret that leads to collateral damage. When the world was on lockdown, the use of any social media application increased. Adults and teens craved any social interaction which is done a lot through online applications. People did not think about how what they posted could affect their future standing. Employers will look through people’s social media, especially if the career involves teaching or sales. The last thing a company or organization wants is a person who will wrongfully represent what they are going for.
There are many ways to be able to build a positive digital footprint. The main way is to stop and ask yourself simple questions. Would this post affect my future? Would I care if someone else was posting this about me? Am I okay with the fact that friends, family, teachers, and future employers could view this post?
Although everything is online forever, there are ways to reduce digital footprint and protect your privacy. A few ways to do this is by clearing any cookies you have accepted, limiting the amount of personal information that is put out, and deleting inactive accounts.
As a teenager who was a 7th and 8th grader during the lockdown of COVID-19, I have my fair share of social media. I am now a senior in high school looking back on my use of social media during that point in time. I am lucky my parents were strict about my use of social media which means my footprint is not a concern of mine.
Another way to manage your social media is to not engage with negative and hateful accounts. There will always be trolls online who are purposely trying to make you or someone else feel bad. The best thing you can do about this is delete the comment and block the account. Do not get upset about comments over the internet because the person is looking for a response and attention.
Lastly, decide whether you want a private or public account. It is important to put both options into perspective when you first make an account. Make the decision where it best suits what you are looking for.
