Your digital footprint is part of your online history, and can be seen by other people, or tracked and held in multiple databases, however careful you are with privacy settings.
Some things that can happen include: prospective or current employers can look into your family members’ background; applications for schools, colleges, universities, scholarships, clubs, or sports teams could be rejected; you, family members or friends could fall victim to fraud, identity theft, or both; your children could be at risk of criminal activity threatening their online or physical safety; you could be refused life, medical, property or vehicle insurance based on information you have shared online.
Tony Neate, CEO at Get Safe Online, with whom Peter is working, said: “Every time you visit a website, send, or receive a message or email, buy or book anything online, comment on a post, upload a photo or find directions on your phone, you’re adding to your digital footprint.
“When you stream music, make a video call or use a smart speaker – that adds to your digital footprint too.
“Today, most of us are creating a digital history but what is important is that you are aware of the consequences if you don’t handle it with care, our advice is here to help.”
The organisation has a list of top tips to manage you digital footprint on their website, accessible by clicking here. https://www.getsafeonline.org/digitalfootprint/
Peter McCall, said: “The internet is a fantastic tool to keep up with family and friends, do some shopping, open bank accounts and much more.
“However, it is really important that we are careful about how much information we share about ourselves and the terms we agree to whilst online.
“It is never the fault of the victim who is targeted by fraud and identity theft – that blame solely sits with the criminal. However, we can make it harder for these criminals to target us.
“I would urge all residents to visit www.getsafeonline.org to learn more about a digital footprint and how to further protect themselves.
“If you have been the victim of a cybercrime, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.”
