Every activity a person carries out on the Internet leaves behind a trail of data commonly known as a digital footprint. The information left behind can have real-world consequences. As such it is essential that users understand how their digital footprint is created, the magnitude of that digital trail, and the steps they can take to reduce their digital footprint to manage and protect their privacy on the Internet.
A digital footprint is the trail of data left behind by a person when they carry out activities online. Whether posting to social media, shopping for gifts, commenting on videos, or sending an email, data is created that could be used to identify a person and their interests. Read the CSIAC Report to learn more about reducing your digital footprint: Reducing Your Digital Footprint