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Your digital footprint

Find out how understanding your digital footprint can help you manage your online presence and make positive choices about what you share.

 

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What is a digital footprint?

Every time you share something online - posts, comments, photos, and interactions - you add a little more information about yourself to the online world. This is known as your digital footprint.

Digital footprints are created in two ways: passively and actively.

  • A passive footprint is created when your data is collected, without you actively providing it. This includes IP addresses, browsing history and cookies.
  • An active digital footprint is created when you intentionally submit information online, such as sending emails, posting and 'likes' on social media and online forms.

Why your digital footprint matters

Think before you share

Once something is posted online, it can be difficult—if not impossible—to fully erase. Therefore, it’s important to think carefully about what you choose to share, as it can shape how others perceive you online.

You should also remember that once information is online, you lose control over it. Content intended to be private may be shared by others, and posts can be captured or saved even after you delete them. 

Your digital footprint can also include content that you didn't originate. For example, when photos of you are tagged into other people’s social media posts. Everyone can see your digital footprint and use it to learn more about you. This includes things you may not want them to see or know.

Who might view your digital footprint?

Online activities on social media sites are highly visible, such as:

  • Instagram
  • Snapchat
  • TikTok.

You may consider other online activities as being more private, such as:

  • your web browsing history
  • emails
  • WhatsApp messages

However, they're still part of your digital footprint.

Future employers, placement providers, and even academic contacts may view your online presence, so remember to represent yourself positively.

Protecting your reputation and online safety

Social media is a powerful tool. It can help you to build professional networks and provide routes to further opportunities. It can also support your wellbeing as you stay connected with family, friends and support networks.

Developing good digital habits now will support both your academic journey and future career. By thinking carefully about what you share and managing your online presence, you can build a safe, positive, and professional digital identity.

Here are practical steps to use social media more responsibly:

Using social media more responsibly
Think before you post
  • Ask yourself: Would I be comfortable if a tutor or employer saw this?
  • Avoid posting when upset or angry.
  • Check facts before sharing information.
Manage privacy settings
  • Regularly review account privacy controls.
  • Limit who can see your posts, especially personal content.
  • Be cautious when accepting friend or follower requests.
Separate personal and professional content
  • Consider maintaining a more professional profile (e.g. LinkedIn).
  • Keep personal accounts private where possible.
Be respectful
  • Avoid offensive, discriminatory, or inappropriate language.
  • Engage in discussions constructively and respectfully.
Protect your personal information
  • Don't share sensitive details such as your address, phone number, or timetable.
  • Avoid oversharing, such as using location tagging in real time.
Secure your accounts
  • Use strong, unique passwords to help keep your accounts secure.
  • Enable two-factor authentication where available.
Review and clean up your presence
  • Use search engines to search for your name and email address/es online.
  • Delete or untag content that may harm your reputation.