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4.1  DIGITAL FOOTPRINTS

              A digital footprint refers to the trail of information individuals leave behind when using the internet. Your
              digital footprint, often referred to as a digital shadow or electronic trail. It reflects your online activities,
              interactions, and the data collected about you, either voluntarily or automatically. Various applications may
              collect your footprint in two different ways.























               Case Study: Digital Dilemma
               Anaya is a talented and hard-working high school student who dreams of securing a scholarship to a
               prestigious university.  She excels academically,  actively participates in student  government,  and  is a
               passionate advocate for social causes. Anaya also enjoys engaging with her peers on social media, where
               she shares opinions, memes, and light-hearted commentary on trending topics. While Anaya’s posts are
               generally positive and engaging, some of her past interactions include controversial debates and sarcastic
               remarks that, in hindsight, could be misinterpreted as insensitive.

               She never intended to offend anyone, but some comments were made impulsively, without considering their
               long-term impact. As Anaya prepares to submit her college applications, she learns that some universities
               review applicants’ online presence. This realisation fills her with concern—what if her past posts are taken
               out  of context? She fears that her digital footprint might overshadow her achievements and damage her
               chances  of receiving a scholarship. This situation highlights how social media activity, even when meant
               in good fun,  can have lasting consequences. It underscores the importance of maintaining a responsible
               online presence,  being mindful of how digital interactions can be perceived, and regularly reviewing one’s
               digital footprint,  especially when pursuing higher education and career opportunities.


              Active Digital Footprints
              An active digital footprint is created when you intentionally share information online. These footprints are
              under your control because you actively decide what to share.

              This includes:

              Ð ÐPersonal details such as your name, email address, phone number, and other information you enter in
                 online forms, surveys, or social media profiles.

              Ð ÐContent you actively generate, like search queries, emails you send, and photos or videos you upload.
              Ð ÐActivities such as filling out forms, posting or commenting on social media, creating online accounts, and
                 making online purchases.


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