Live My Digital for students: Digital Footprint

Summary

In this engaging video, Willow, a YouTuber and online safety advocate, discusses the significance of digital footprints and their impact on personal reputation. Filmed at Google, she highlights how every online action contributes to this footprint, which can influence job prospects and university admissions. Willow encourages viewers to be mindful of their online presence, offering practical tips for managing their digital reputation, such as adjusting privacy settings, deleting inappropriate content, and regularly searching for themselves online. By understanding and curating their digital footprint, individuals can ensure it positively reflects who they are.

Takeaways

• 😀 A digital footprint is the trail of information you leave behind when you interact online.
• 🔍 Almost 48% of employers use search engines to check potential candidates' digital footprints.
• 🎓 Universities also research applicants' online presence during admissions processes.
• 📸 Social media can serve as a digital diary, but users must be mindful of their posts.
• ⚠️ Think before posting: if you wouldn't want a teacher or parent to see it, reconsider sharing it.
• 🔒 Adjust your social media privacy settings to control who can see your content.
• 🗑️ Regularly delete or untag inappropriate past posts to clean up your digital footprint.
• 🔄 Log out of your online accounts regularly to protect your information.
• 🔍 Search for yourself online to understand what others can find about you.
• 💡 Technology should be used safely and responsibly to maintain a positive online reputation.

Q & A

What is a digital footprint?

A digital footprint is the trail of digital information we leave behind when we engage in online activities, such as sharing content, searching, or making purchases.

Why is it important to be aware of your digital footprint?

Being aware of your digital footprint is crucial because it can affect your reputation. Employers and universities often research candidates online, and a negative digital footprint can impact job or admission prospects.

What percentage of employers use search engines to research candidates?

Research shows that 48% of employers will use search engines to research potential candidates before considering them for a position.

How can social media be compared to a digital diary?

Social media can be compared to a digital diary because it contains memories of activities, experiences, and connections that users have made over time, which are easily accessible.

What are some tips for managing your digital footprint?

To manage your digital footprint, you can adjust security settings on social media accounts, delete inappropriate posts, untag yourself from unwanted content, and deactivate old accounts you no longer use.

What should you do if someone tags you in an inappropriate post?

If someone tags you in an inappropriate post, you can untag yourself or report the content to the social media network to have it removed.

Why is it advised to regularly log out of online profiles?

Regularly logging out of online profiles helps enhance security and ensures that unauthorized users do not access your accounts, protecting your personal information.

What action should you take if you find unwanted content about yourself online?

If you find unwanted content about yourself online, you should consider deleting it, untagging yourself, or reporting it to the relevant platform.

How can individuals ensure their digital footprint works in their favor?

Individuals can ensure their digital footprint works in their favor by posting positive and professional content, showcasing their skills and interests, and curating their online presence to reflect their best self.

What resources does Willow suggest for further information on online safety?

Willow suggests viewers check out additional videos in her series to learn more about online safety and responsible use of technology.