A digital footprint is a trail of information, images and videos you leave behind on the internet. Although many people believe that the you can delete something from the internet this is not strictly true. When personal information or images are shared online they are available to almost anyone. Many social media sites specify in their terms and conditions that anything posted through their site becomes their property and thus although we may try to delete something, even something on a private profile, it is often archived by the company.
Two key problems that are becoming more common to do with one’s digital footprint include: employers or possible employers searching job applicants and using their online information to make employment decisions, and untrustworthy websites storing or misusing personal information such as bank details.
To learn how to protect yourself and your student online please see the following websites:
- www.thinkuknow.co.uk
- www.kidsmart.org.uk/digitalfootprints
- www.cybersmart.gov.au/Kids/Get%20the%20facts/Digital%20footprint.aspx
- www.teachthought.com/technology/11-tips-for-students-tomanage-their-digital-footprints/
Bishop Challoner's Parent Consent Withdrawal Form (Photograph/Image - Online and Print)