Knowing and witnessing things getting digitized, more than often we are incorporating the use of technologies in everything we do and doing so we are leaving a trail of our digital footprints.
To make it simple to understand, digital footprint is the information about a particular person that exists on the Internet as a result of their online activity. For example all the social media activity on various platforms like Facebook, twitter, YouTube, etc. and all the activity such as likes, comments and shares are ones digital footprint.
The digital footprints we leave do have an impact on our lives and so it is important to understand how to manage it. Our online browsing habits are a part of our passive digital footprint, created without our consent or knowledge, but our active digital footprint, especially on social media, can more easily be managed. The key is to manage the privacy settings and not indulge in online activities you don’t want people to be aware of.
Before the whole idea of the concept make you lose your sleep, understand that digital footprints do have a positive bright side as well. By leaving a positive digital footprint you make yourself a brand so that when someone goes through your online footprint or search you online if they find all the positive things it is beneficial for your brand image and that is YOU. Also, participating in professional groups or forums, discussions, bringing your opinion about issues upfront and networking with others in your field speaks volumes of you. Another option is to create a personal blog to highlight your strengths and personality online.
Below are some videos that will help you get a better understanding of the whole thing so watch out and know for yourself.
1. Your Digital Footprint
Explained simply and just on point. This video is a very apt explanation of the concept of digital footprint.
2. Four Reasons to Care About Your Digital Footprint
Giving the 4 important reasons; namely, Protecting Your Reputation, Preventing Financial Loss, Preserving Your Freedom and Maintaining Your Ability to Decide Where and How Your Personal Information is Shared, this video is a must watch to understand about why it is important to keep a track of your digital footprint.
3. Managing Your Digital Footprint
An awesome video explaining why is it important to manage your digital footprints and how to do it.
4. 5 Ways to Make a Positive Digital Footprint!
As mentioned above, digital footprint can be beneficial if digital ethics are abided. This video explains how one can create a positive digital footprint simply by engaging in ethical use of digital technologies. Targeted at students it is a must watch for all.
5. Digital footprints by Michelle Clark
Because no list of videos is complete without a Ted Talk. This video is a must watch to understand more about the importance, effects and impact of digital footprints.
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