Blogs, wikis, Facebook, YouTube, Flickr, Pandora - any website or app that allows users to create their own content and connect with other people. That's why it's called "social" media.
What's my digital footprint?
"Digital footprint" is a phrase used to describe the virtual tracks that everyone leaves behind when posting information online. Pics posted on Flickr, personal info added to Facebook, comments posted on blogs, book reviews posted on Amazon -- all of these leave a footprint of where you've been, what you think, and details about who you are. Put all of that together, and someone may be able to create a pretty accurate (or inaccurate) profile of you.
So it's important to think carefully about your digital footprint...
You probably don't want everyone to see all the details of your life, so you need to make sure the personal information you post online can only be seen for the family and friends you choose. Most social media sites provide "privacy settings," so you can decide who can see the info you post. Make sure to check the privacy settings on all the social media sites you use.
Reputation Management
College admissions officers and employers look at social media sites when they make admissions and hiring decisions. You don't want the info you post to stand in the way of getting into college or getting a job, right? That's why you need to manage your reputation online by:
- Only post photos that show you (and your friends) in a positive light.
- Only post positive things about yourself and other people.
- Only post links to sites that are not embarrassing for others to see.