Digital Footprint
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Yes, it is a real term people use in 2024.
No, it is not directly related to digital wellness or digital addictions, though it can have implications for these areas.
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Nov 12, 2024 09:56 PM
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Home → Digital Wellness Glossary → Digital Footprint
Digital Footprint
[dij-i-tuhl foot-print]
What Is Digital Footprint?
A digital footprint is the trail of data you leave behind while using the internet, including your social media activity, website visits, online purchases, and any other digital interactions.
Word Origins:
The term emerged in the early 2000s, combining "digital" (relating to computer technology) with "footprint" (a mark or trace left behind). It became widely used as internet usage grew and people began to understand how their online activities were being tracked and recorded.
Types of Digital Footprints
There are two main types of digital footprints: active and passive. Active footprints are created when you intentionally share information online (like social media posts or blog comments). Passive footprints are data trails you leave unintentionally, such as browsing history or location data collected by apps.
Managing Your Digital Footprint
Taking control of your digital footprint involves regular privacy checkups, being mindful of what you share online, using privacy settings effectively, and occasionally searching for your name to see what information is publicly available about you.
Related Terms
- Digital Hygiene: Maintaining healthy online habits and protecting your digital presence
- Digital Wellness: The state of physical and mental well-being in the digital age
- Cybersecurity Hygiene: Practices for maintaining system security and online safety