Could Digital Footprints Become A Problem?

Digital footprints can be constructed as trails that digital citizens leave online. Could these digital footprints become a problem and how can one manage a digital footprint?

My Opinion On Digital Footprints:

Almost anyone that uses technology and the internet has left a digital footprint. Things that we use daily like cellphones and bank cards are transmitting data to severs with our information. This makes it very difficult to remove yourself from the digital world. Some people who value privacy may find this disturbing while others may find it helpful.

I feel your digital footprint will become a problem when you have something on the internet you don't want there, such as a drunken/inappropriate photo. This could negatively affect your chances of getting into a university or a job.

Although, your digital footprint is useful for connecting with old friends, to have a good online reputation and help users contact content creators (authors, YouTubers, etc.).

With all that being said it is next to impossible to remove yourself from the digital world as many of us use devices every day that a transmitting data. I believe it is not a problem if you are responsible and have a good behavior online.

A good test to see how big of a footprint you have is to type your full name into Google.

Ways To Manage Your Digital Footprint:

• Do not give out any of your passwords to anyone

• Don't post anything on the internet you wouldn't want your family or friends to see

• Set your Facebook profile to private or friends only

• Ensure you are using safe and authenticate websites

For enthusiasts that are extremely worried about their privacy: use incognito mode in chrome, delete cookies and search history or download a browser like Tor - that hides your location and makes you anonymous.

References:

Anon. 2016. What Is Digital Footprint. Digital Footprint. [online]. Available at: https://digitalfootprintch.wordpress.com/ [Accessed 5 May 2017].