Digital Footprint Quiz

Which is the correct definition of a “digital footprint”?

• A picture of a footprint in the sand from the internet.

• The trail of information left behind by using the internet.

• All the websites found under your search history.

• Your favourite online game.

Answer explanation

Much like a trail of footprints in the sand, your digital footprint is the trail of data that is left behind after you interact with the internet.

Why is it important to create a positive digital footprint?

• So your friends think you are funny.

• So people cannot see what you do on the internet.

• So that you do not get in trouble with your teacher.

• To protect both your online and in-person reputation.

Answer explanation

Your digital footprint can be viewed by both people on the internet and in real life. Because of this, the things you post, say, and do on the internet can have real-life consequences.

Which of the following is an effective strategy for creating a positive digital footprint?

• Deleting your account every time something goes wrong.

• Changing your privacy settings so your account is public.

• Using a fake name for every account you create.

• Changing your privacy settings so only people you know can view your account.

Answer explanation

When creating social media or online gaming accounts, it is a good idea to change your privacy settings so only the people you know have access to your account.

Which of the following can affect your digital footprint?

• Messages you send in chatrooms.

• Photos you post on social media.

• Social media profiles you create.

• All of these answers are correct.

Answer explanation

Anything that you search, send, say, and upload has the potential to affect your digital footprint.

What happens to the things you post online?

• They can stay on the internet forever.

• They disappear after 24 hours.

• You can delete them anytime.

• Only people you know can see them.

Answer explanation

When you interact with the internet the traceable data has the potential to stay on the internet forever.

Which of the following can be affected by your digital footprint?

• Your online reputation.

• Your relationships.

• Your in-person reputation.

• All of the answers are correct.

Answer explanation

Your digital footprint can affect both your online and in-person reputation and relationships.

What should you do if you post/say something online that you regret?

• Ignore it and pretend it never happened.

• Blame it on your friends.

• Create a new account.

• Talk to a trusted adult.

Answer explanation

If you post/say something online that you regret, you can always seek help and advice from a trusted adult such as a parent or teacher.

Who should you talk to if you have questions/concerns about your digital footprint?

• Your friends.

• A trusted adult such as a parent or teacher.

• A stranger online.

• No one.

Answer explanation

If you have questions about your digital footprint, it can be helpful to ask an adult that you trust, such as a parent or teacher.

Which of the following is an example of a negative digital footprint?

• Changing your privacy settings so only people you know can view your account.

• Being positive and respectful online.

• Posting negatively about someone in your class.

• Being friends with your family on social media.

Answer explanation

Remember: posting negative things about other people online is cyberbullying, and is something you do not want as part of your digital footprint.

Can you delete your digital footprint?

• Yes, you can delete everything about you on the internet.

• No, you can never delete your digital footprint.

• Yes, it goes away after a certain amount of time.

• Yes, you can delete everything that you post.

Answer explanation

You can never fully delete your digital footprint. While you can delete some things you have posted in the past, your trail of traceable data can never fully be deleted.