“Barefoot” and Browsing: Managing Your Footprints in the Cyber Sand

You may not realize this, but every time you go online, you leave traces of online activity behind called digital footprints. Just like footprints in the sand, some of these impressions are light and fleeting, while others stick around. Understanding what these footprints are and how to manage them is an important step toward staying safer online.

These days, there’s no way to be totally “incognito” on the web given that you still need to have various online accounts to shop, keep up with friends, research information, manage your finances, or engage in other online activities you choose. You can still take control by managing your digital footprint to better boost your cybersecurity. The goal isn’t to disappear from the Internet entirely, but to be mindful about what data you share and where. Below are some suggestions to help manage and minimize the “tracks” you leave behind.

1. Ask “Why” Before Sharing Any Information:
   1. Why: Every time you fill out a form, make a post, or click “accept,” you’re giving away a piece of your personal information. If it’s not necessary, don’t share.
   2. How: Before entering your identifying information online, ask: Why do they need this? Is it required? Could it be used against me later? Only provide what’s needed, skipping optional fields when possible.
2. Google Yourself to See What Comes Up
   1. Why: It’s important to know what information about you is already public so you can take steps to manage it.
   2. How: Open a web browser, type your full name in quotes (e.g., “John A. Smith”), and review the results, including images and social media links. If you see something concerning, note where it’s coming from and whether you can delete or update it.
3. Use a Password Manager to Keep Up with Your Accounts and Create Strong, Unique Passwords
   1. Why: Using the same password everywhere makes you more vulnerable if one account is hacked. Password managers keep your passwords safe and help you create strong ones you don’t have to remember.
   2. How: Trusted password managers like LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden can automatically save and fill in your login details securely, generating strong passwords for each site.
4. Minimize the Number of New Accounts You Create
   1. Why: The more accounts you open, the more places your data lives, and the harder it is to keep track of.
   2. How: Think about the necessity of signing up for a new site or service. If it’s a one-time thing (like reading an article), consider using a “guest checkout” or a temporary email if available.
5. Adjust Your Privacy Settings
   1. Why: Most websites and apps collect more information than you realize.
   2. How: Go into the “Privacy” or “Settings” section of your social media, browser, or online accounts. Change the visibility of your profile, location, and activity to “Only Me” or “Friends,” rather than “Public.” Make this part of your regular check-up every few months.
6. Know Your Privacy Rights
   1. Why: You have legal rights to control how your personal information is used. Knowing them helps you make informed choices.
   2. How: Visit websites like https://www.privacyrights.org or your state’s consumer protection site to learn what rights you have. 
7. Browse/Post with Care
   1. Why: Once something is online, it can be difficult to fully erase. Oversharing can lead to scams, embarrassment, or misuse of your information.
   2. How: Think before you click “Post” or “Share.” Avoid posting private details (such as your location, birthday, or vacation plans) online. 
8. Delete Old or Unused Accounts
   1. Why: Every account you create holds personal information. If you’re no longer using it, that data still exists and could be vulnerable.
   2. How: Make a list of services or websites you no longer use Visit those sites and look for an option to close or delete your account, usually under “Account Settings” or “Privacy.” 
9. Clear Your Browser History/Cookies Regularly
   1. Why: Browsers save a record of the websites you visit. Small files called cookies can track your behavior online and be used to serve targeted ads.
   2. How: Open your browser, go to settings or preferences, and look for options labeled “History,” “Privacy,” or “Clear Browsing Data.” You can usually choose to delete history, cookies, or cached data for a specific period or all time. Doing this weekly or monthly is a good habit.
10. Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi
    1. Why: Using public Wi-Fi can expose your information to hackers who may be lurking on that network.

How: Avoid checking bank accounts, shopping online, or logging into sensitive accounts when on public Wi-Fi. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) if you’re a frequent traveler.