An illustration displays a phone with footprints, representing digital footprint. In a digitized world, online footprint has become an issue, especially in college admissions and job prospects. “Active digital footprints have the potential to leave lasting effects that shape individuals’ futures,” News Staffer Sasha Barkan wrote. Illustration by Sylvia Robinson
Being aware of what you post and share is vital in protecting your digital footprint.
How far does a social media post go after one hits “share”?
The answer, it turns out, can be very far indeed.
Posts can follow individuals throughout their lives, highlighting the importance of monitoring one’s active digital footprint in an increasingly online world.
Norton, a cybersecurity company, defines active digital footprint as “the information you choose to share online, including posts you make on social media,” meaning that every time someone shares a story, Instagram Reel or TikTok, their active digital footprint is expanding.
While an Instagram story, TikTok repost or X post may seem temporary and insignificant, they wield substantial power in the effects on one’s future.
Active digital footprints have the potential to leave lasting effects that shape individuals’ futures. According to Kaplan, Inc., an education and admissions service company, 67% of college admissions officers believe it’s appropriate to examine applicants’ social media profiles, with 28% having done so in the past.
Social media posts containing illegal substances or activities can harm one’s chances of getting into their desired school, according to CollegeData, a higher education information center. This demonstrates that, although a post might be shared with friends or family in mind, it can also be evaluated by those determining one’s future.
Some may argue that the use of private accounts negates the need for such precautions. However, the ability to screenshot private posts provides a gateway for such information to circulate on public accounts, completely outside of the original posters’ control.
While an Instagram story, TikTok repost or X post may seem temporary and insignificant, they wield substantial power in the effects on one’s future. In an increasingly digital world, it is vital for young people to protect their digital footprint by being conscientious about the things they post.
