Page 11 - Cyber Safety C-7
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Why Does Digital Identity Matter?
A digital identity is important because it shapes how others see you online. A real-life example
can help explain why it’s essential to protect it. In Bhopal, a fake Instagram account was created
to harass a group of schoolgirls. The impersonator pretended to be one of their classmates and
used edited photos to threaten them. The girls acted quickly, blocking the account and with the
help of their parents and the police, they were able to handle the situation.
This shows that even if you do nothing wrong, someone can misuse your identity. A fake account
can damage trust and reputation, which is why it’s so important to report problems like this as
soon as you notice them.
The digital world is full of information that you share without even realising it. Every photo, post,
comment or reaction adds to the data connected to your name. Being aware of this, helps you
stay safe and responsible when using the Internet.
21 st
DIGITAL IDENTITY Century #Technology Literacy
Skills
Google your name and see what results appear. Take note of the images, profiles or links that show up.
Reflect on what these results say about your digital identity.
Are the results an accurate representation of you? Consider how your online presence might affect how
others perceive you.
DIGITAL FOOTPRINT
A digital footprint is the trail of data you left behind when using the Internet. It includes both
intentional actions, such as posting on social media and unintentional data, like the websites
visited or information tracked by cookies.
“Have you ever walked on a beach? You leave a trail of footprints behind
you. The Internet is like that beach. Every time you go online, you leave a
trail of information behind, which is called your digital footprint.”
This footprint is a record of everything you do on the Internet. This includes:
Posts, comments, likes, shares and other interactions on social media platforms like Facebook,
X, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.
Digital Identity and Footprint 9
