What Is Digital Footprint and Identity? Understand Now
What Is Digital Footprint?
Have you ever searched for something online and then started seeing advertisements for it everywhere? That’s called a digital footprint. I hope you understand what a digital footprint is in cybersecurity.
A digital footprint is the trail of data you leave behind every time you use the internet. This can be anything—
- Post is liked and commented on.
- Photo is shared.
- A website is being visited.
- Searching on Google.
- Information the apps collects in the background.
Every action creates a small mark online. Over time, these marks are built up into the digital identity.
There Are Two Types of Digital Footprints:
#1. Active Footprint
This means that is being chosen to share. For example:
- Uploading a photo to Instagram.
- Writing a tweet.
- Commenting on YouTube
#2. Passive Footprint
These are collected without knowing. For example:
- Websites tracking the location.
- Ads following the clicks.
- Apps collecting phone data.
Even when you’re just scrolling, a trace is being left behind.
Why Should Care Digital Footprints?
One might think that it is just online stuff. But the digital footprint can be affected:
- Privacy – Companies (hackers) may know more about without our realization.
- Job – Employers often being checked on social media before hiring.
- Safety – Sharing too much of content, can attract scammers or stalkers.
- Reputation – Once something is posted online then it is like forever.
How to Protect the Digital Footprint?
How can digital footprint keep us stay safe and protect it?
Here are some simple and smart steps:
1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords:-
Avoid “123456” or your name. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Try a password manager to keep track of them. Also, a password should be of minimum 8 unique characters or maximum of 10 characters.
2. Think Before Sharing:-
Ask yourself these questions:-
- Should I really post this?
- Am I sharing too much personal information?
- Would I be okay with sharing this publicly?
The answer to these questions is that We don’t!! So, don’t post it.
3. Limit App Permissions:-
Some apps ask for the camera, contacts or location, even when they don’t acquire to. By turning off the permissions in phone settings can help for this purpose.
4. Google Yourself:-
Yes, seriously! Search for your name and see what comes up.
If found something odd then try to remove it or ask the website owner to take it down.
5. Use Privacy Settings:-
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Job profile apps that let you choose who can see your content. Make sure that your profiles are private if possible, and only accept the requests of people you know.
6. Be Careful with Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Data:-
Free Wi-Fi at cafes, metro, airports or any other public places can be risky. Avoid logging into the important accounts like bank accounts while using the public networks.
7. Delete Old Accounts-
Delete any accounts or apps which is of no longer use. Each old account is a possible door for hackers.
Conclusion
Above, we have discussed what is digital footprint and the types of digital footprints. Also, I explained some tips and tricks to stay safe and secure. You need to read and understand this complete article to enhance your online security.