Minimise your digital footprint
Your digital footprint is the traceable digital activities that are left whenever we use networked technologies (such as a smartphone, computer or tablet), which include our communications, personal and financial information and location. Our digital footprint can be used to infer personal information, such as religious and political views, without the user’s knowledge. However, the following steps can be taken to minimise your digital footprint and keep personal data more private when you are on the web.
Keep passwords secure
Never share your passwords with anyone else and make sure that they are strong. Don’t leave your computer unlocked with your social media or other sensitive accounts logged in. If you log into social media accounts on your phone, make sure you have a passcode set up on it.
Make the most of privacy settings
Keep your profiles private and allow access only to chosen friends and family members. Security settings on social media can change, so review your privacy settings regularly.
Guard personal information
Don't post personal information (eg your birthday, address, email address or mobile number) on your online profiles. Just one piece of personal information, such as your date of birth, could be used by a stranger to find out more about you, which may make you vulnerable to identity theft and fraud.
Think about what you post
Social media is public and what goes online has the potential to stay online even if you delete it (eg as a screenshot). Remember what you post may be accessible to prospective employers and others who may be researching you now, or in the future.
Regulate your use of social media
While social media has many benefits, it is an unregulated space where online harassment and abuse is widespread. To ensure that you maintain a positive relationship with social media, it is best to regulate your use of it. Professor Peter Kinderman, Institute of Psychology, Health and Society, has written an article Scroll free September, on how you can improve your relationship with social media.
If you are concerned that you cannot keep yourself safe then please do ask for help.
Further information
A number of organisations and advocacy groups have produced resources about different forms of online harassment, which offer advice on dealing with it, such as immediate online safety and security measures you can take.
- Reporting online harassment to the University
- Speak up & stay safe(r): A guide to protecting yourself from online harassment
- Online harassment field manual
- TrollBusters
- Stop online abuse
- Stop Hate UK
- UK Government: Disrespect nobody
- Digital stalking: A guide to technology risks for victims
- Revenge porn guide
- Revenge porn helpline
What we can do to help
Student Services offers a range of support that includes Wellbeing Advisors, Counsellors, and the Mental Health Advisory Service. To access any of these services contact the Student Advice and Guidance team. This is the entry point to speak to the Wellbeing Advisors, Counsellors, and the Mental Health Advisory Service and all our services are confidential.You can email the team on advice@liverpool.ac.uk, or call 0151 795 1000 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.