Q.2.2 Digital footprints can be construed as trails that digital citizens leave online. Do you think that digital footprints could become a problem? Discuss.

Q.2.2.1. DIGITAL FOOTPRINTS:

A digital footprint is known as everything we do and say online creating a footprint of sorts. Someone may have already accessed, viewed or saved something that people think they may have delete from the Internet, social media sites, or any online mechanism, it does not mean it is gone. That means that just because you have deleted it, it does not mean it is gone. The person that accessed the information or image may have saved it and then decided to share it onwards.

Our digital footprint creates the basis of our online reputation, a reputation that others may access to assess whether or not we are trustworthy, reliable, likeable, etc. One needs to be very careful with their online reputation, as it is just as important as their offline one. 


There are many cons of having a digital footprint here are some examples of harmful digital footprints; 

1.     Identity Theft:

Any photo that is publicly shared is fair game for identity thieves so anyone is at risk especially perceptible teens. Posting personal information is a serious liability. Identity theft is on the rise and is a serious problem with very damaging consequences.

Personal data can be used to generate revenue without our knowledge

2.     College Admissions & the Military:

College admissions officers can and do read your teen’s online profile. If your son or daughter is applying to college and is on the bubble against another applicant, the difference between them gaining acceptance, and receiving a rejection letter could be something immature that was posted on social media. This extends to moral aptitude requirements in the military if your child is planning on enlisting.

It can be annoying and distracting to be constantly inundated with advertisements and information.

3.     Employers & Internships:

Employers will Google you. Even if it’s just a job you are applying for to make some extra money while going to college. Additionally college internships are now becoming a prerequisite for gaining employment post-college. Internships are competitive enough. The difference between your son or daughter and another applicant could be their digital footprint.

Purchase behavior data may be used as a basis to reduce credit limits or increase interest rates

4.     Scholarships:

Scholarships often ask applicants to share their social media profiles as part of the process in applying online. Any immature posts, cyber bullying, or generally distasteful material found on your child’s profile could prevent prohibit them from gaining a scholarship.

5.     Sports:

Is your son or daughter planning on playing sports in college? Recruiters and coaches surely will want to know about your teen’s conduct on social media.

REFERENCES:

https://www.fosi.org/good-digital-parenting/harmful-digital-footprint-impacts-teens/

http://www.vivint.com/neighborhood/tech-neighbor/pros-and-cons-of-your-digital-footprint/