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Social Media and Your Digital Footprint

Social media is a way to share parts of your life with others, but everything you do on the internet leaves a trail behind you!

What is Social Media?

Social media refers to websites and apps that let you create and share content, like photos and videos, and connect with other people. Popular social media platforms include YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. It can be a fun way to express yourself and see what your friends are up to.

Your Digital Footprint

Every time you post a photo, write a comment, or even “like” something on social media, you are adding to your digital footprint. Your digital footprint is a record of everything you have ever done on the internet. It’s like a trail of footprints that follows you everywhere you go!

Think Before You Post

It’s very important to remember that once something is on the internet, it’s almost impossible to completely delete it. Even if you delete a post, someone else might have already saved it or taken a screenshot. That’s why you should always think carefully before you post anything:

  • Would you be okay with your teacher or your grandma seeing it?
  • Is it kind and respectful to others?
  • Does it share any personal information that should stay private?

Did you know?

  • A Billion Users: Some social media platforms have billions of active users every single month! That’s more than a eighth of the entire world’s population!
  • Privacy Settings: Most social media apps have privacy settings that let you choose who can see your posts. You should always talk to an adult about setting these up so only your friends and family can see what you share.
  • The Power of Positive: You can use your digital footprint to share positive things too! Many people use social media to share their art, their music, or to help raise money for charities.

Check Your Knowledge

  1. What is “social media”?
  2. What is a “digital footprint”?
  3. Why is it so hard to completely delete something from the internet?
  4. What are three questions you should ask yourself before posting anything online?
  5. How can you use your digital footprint to make a positive impact?