It's important to know what information is collected by your computers and the websites you visit. Learn about your digital footprint and how to keep your personal information and reputation safe.
A digital footprint is everything people can find out about you from the websites you visit. When you share something publicly online or leave comments on things others have posted, you're adding to your footprint.
Smart devices, like a fitness tracker or smart watch, might track where you go or be able to hear what’s being said. All of these things collect information about you and add to your digital footprint.
It's important to think about what can be found and whether this could cause you any problems. Remember that you can control a lot of what people see. You can do this by making sure that everything you post online has the right audience.
The online world is a public place. If you share something online you may not have full control over who sees it or what happens to it. If people search for your name or a nickname you use, a lot of what you post online could be found. People could copy, share or discuss things you've posted.
Things people can find out about you online:
Some websites and devices may save and share information about you that you're not always aware of. It's important to read the privacy policy and check out privacy settings for the websites and devices you use. You should do the same when using apps too.
People finding out too much about you can be embarrassing and dangerous. If you post a rude comment or video online, a potential employer might see it. This could be embarrassing or might come up when you look for a job.
There are many reasons why this could also be dangerous. For example, if you've ever been in abusive relationship, you wouldn't want your ex-boyfriend or girlfriend to discover details about your where you live or where you go to school or college.
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A digital footprint can be a good way to show off your skills and interests. Employers, colleges and universities often search the names of people who want to study or work with them. Some things might give them a good impression. If you've done some fundraising or created some art, it can feel good to show off your achievements.
3 things to remember when you're posting stuff online:
Many young people have blogs on websites like Tumblr or post videos on YouTube.
Blogging and making videos can be great fun and you can build up an audience (fans and followers). It can be a great way to show off your hobbies, such as writing, baking or art. If you do this it's important to be aware of the dangers and take steps to stay safe.
As well as your public digital footprint, it's a good idea to think about what people can learn about you from your computer.
All computers connected to the internet have a special number, called an IP address, which websites can trace. For example, if someone tries to threaten or groom you online, the police can use IP addresses to try to find out where the messages are coming from.
Your computer saves a trail of where you go online and stores a history of the websites you visit. You can delete the history of the websites you've visited on your computer so other people can't see it. If you're worried about what you're looking at online, it can help to speak to an adult you trust.
There are also some really easy ways to make sure what you do online isn't monitored or easy to find out. You can:
If you’re worried - find someone you trust to talk to. Try talking to your parents, teachers or another adult you feel comfortable with.
You might also find it helpful to chat to other young people who have the same worries as you. The message boards are a great way to do this. If you have a particular question, you could also Ask Sam for advice.
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