STEPS TO CREATE A POSITIVE DIGITAL FOOTPRINT

1. Imagine you share a personal post on social media. How might that post affect someone’s
opinion of you in the future, and what steps could you take to ensure your post leaves a
positive impression?

When I share something personal, it can affect how others view me. For instance, sharing
positive, thoughtful content can make people see me as kind and responsible. Before posting,
I could consider whether the post reflects my values, respects others, and whether I’d be
comfortable with anyone seeing it in the future.

2. How would you explain the concept of a digital footprint to a friend who doesn’t
understand it? What kinds of online actions do you think leave a lasting positive impact?

A digital footprint is the record of everything you do online, from posts to comments and
likes. Positive actions, like helping others or sharing valuable information, leave a good
impression. For example, sharing motivational quotes, being respectful, and avoiding
negativity can build a positive digital footprint that represents my true self.

3. If you witness a friend sharing something hurtful online, how could that affect their digital
reputation and others’ opinions of them? How would you suggest they approach the situation
to create a positive footprint instead?

If a friend shares something mean, others might see them as negative or unkind. I would
advise them to think about how they might feel if someone posted something similar about
them and encourage them to delete it or apologize. This would show that they care about their
digital reputation and respect others.

4. Think of a time when you were about to share something online. What are some questions
you should ask yourself before posting to ensure that your digital footprint remains positive
and helpful?

Before I post, I should ask if it’s truthful, necessary, and kind. I should also consider how it
might impact my reputation or if it might offend someone. This way, I’m more likely to post
content that’s helpful, accurate, and positive, creating a good impression.

5. If someone posts something negative or inappropriate about you online, how would you
handle it to minimize any negative impact on your digital footprint and create a positive
example for others?

I would avoid reacting with more negativity and instead talk to the person calmly or report
the post if necessary. I could also share positive stories or achievements that reflect who I am.
This shows resilience and helps protect my digital footprint from unnecessary negativity.

6. In what ways do you think your digital actions today might impact your future
opportunities (such as scholarships, jobs, or friendships)? How can you be proactive in
building a positive digital reputation?
My digital actions could impact my future because people often look at online profiles to
learn more about us. Positive comments, kind messages, and useful shares show I’m
responsible and thoughtful. Building a good digital reputation now can lead to more
opportunities later, like connecting with the right people for jobs or scholarships.

7. Why do you think it is important to fact-check information before sharing it online? How
can this habit contribute to a trustworthy and positive online presence?

Fact-checking is important because it prevents the spread of misinformation. If I share only

accurate, reliable information, people are more likely to trust me. This habit helps build a
positive, trustworthy digital footprint because I’m known for sharing useful and honest
information.

8. Think of someone who has a positive digital reputation (like a public figure, teacher, or
friend). What qualities or actions make their digital footprint positive, and how could you
incorporate similar habits?

I admire people who are positive and supportive online. For example, public figures who
spread awareness on important issues without being disrespectful inspire me. To follow their
example, I can avoid unnecessary arguments and focus on sharing uplifting and helpful
content.

9. Case Study on Commenting Responsibly:

Anna sees a classmate post a picture that others start making fun of in the comments. Some
comments are mean, but others seem harmless. Anna feels tempted to join in with a "joking"
comment, too. If Anna decides to leave a comment, how could it impact her digital footprint?
What are the positive and negative outcomes of either joining in or staying silent?

If Anna decides to comment, even jokingly, it might encourage others to continue making fun
of the classmate. This can harm her digital footprint, as people may see her as unkind or
unsupportive. On the other hand, if Anna decides to stay silent or even stand up for her
classmate, it reflects maturity and kindness, leaving a positive impression. Anna could also
consider sending a private message to her friend to show support.

10. Case Study on Sharing Private Information:

Rahul is excited about a school award he won and shares a post on his social media, including
details about his school and personal address for his friends to see. He later wonders if
sharing this information was safe. What risks might Rahul face by sharing his personal
information online? How could he share his achievement in a way that celebrates his success
but also keeps his privacy safe?

By sharing his address and school name, Rahul risks exposing personal information that
others could misuse. To keep his privacy safe, he could share his achievement by simply
posting a message or photo about winning the award without including any personal details.
This way, he still celebrates his success without compromising his safety.

11. Case Study on Dealing with Online Rumors:

Priya finds out that someone at school started a rumor about her on social media. Some of her
friends have commented or liked the post, making it even more visible. If you were Priya,
how would you handle this situation to protect your digital footprint? What could you do to
address the rumor while still showing maturity and respect online?

If Priya addresses the rumor in a calm and respectful way, perhaps by clarifying it privately
with friends or reporting it if it crosses a line, she shows maturity. Reacting with anger could
fuel more negativity, so remaining composed protects her digital footprint. Priya could also
focus on posting positive content that reflects her true self, which can help counter any
negative impressions the rumor may cause.

12. Case Study on Group Chats and Privacy:

In a group chat with classmates, Amir sends a funny meme about a teacher. Some students
find it hilarious, but others think it’s disrespectful. One of the students screenshots the chat
and shares it publicly. How might Amir’s actions affect his reputation and digital footprint?
What could he have done differently to avoid any negative consequences while still being
social with his friends?

Amir’s meme could damage his digital footprint, especially if people find it disrespectful.
Sending a meme about a teacher isn’t private once it’s in a group chat, and it could be shared
further without his consent. Amir could avoid this situation by sharing only respectful content
in group chats. If he wants to connect with friends, he could choose humor that doesn’t
involve or mock others.

13. Case Study on Misinformation and Digital Responsibility:

Sara comes across a trending post claiming that a specific snack is unsafe to eat. Without
checking if it’s true, she shares it with her friends, some of whom panic and warn others.
Later, she finds out the information was false. What impact could this incident have on Sara’s
digital footprint and reputation among her friends? How can Sara learn from this experience
to avoid sharing false information in the future?

By sharing false information, Sara could damage her reputation as someone who doesn’t
verify facts. This incident could make others trust her less in the future. To avoid this, she
should learn to fact-check information before sharing it. Next time, she could use reliable
sources to confirm accuracy before reposting, which helps build a responsible and
trustworthy digital footprint.

14. Case Study on Social Media Arguments:

Karan finds himself in a debate on social media about a popular movie. The discussion
quickly turns into an argument, with some people using harsh language. Karan feels
frustrated and is tempted to respond angrily. What are some positive ways Karan could
handle this situation to avoid damaging his digital footprint? How can he express his opinion
respectfully without getting drawn into negativity?

Instead of responding angrily, Karan could try expressing his opinion respectfully, even if
others disagree. He could say something like, 'I understand your perspective, but I feel
differently,' and keep his response polite. Avoiding arguments reflects emotional control and
respect, protecting his digital reputation as a calm, respectful person.

15. Case Study on Supporting Positive Content:

Meera notices that her friend has posted about an important cause on social media,
encouraging people to help the environment. Most people ignore the post, and her friend feels
discouraged. What could Meera do to support her friend’s positive message and help it reach
more people? How can promoting positive causes improve her own digital footprint?

Meera can support her friend’s post by liking, commenting positively, or sharing it on her
own profile. By engaging with the post, she can help it reach more people, showing her
support for important causes and encouraging others to do the same. This helps build her own
digital footprint as someone who promotes and supports meaningful content.

16. Case Study on Handling Embarrassing Content:

James’s friend posts an embarrassing video of him on social media without asking
permission. Although it’s meant to be funny, James feels uncomfortable with others seeing it.
What steps could James take to address the situation in a way that protects his digital
footprint and respects his friend? How can he communicate his feelings effectively?

James could privately tell his friend that he’s uncomfortable with the video and politely ask
them to take it down. He could say something like, 'I know you meant it to be funny, but I
feel a bit embarrassed by it.' This approach is respectful and protects both his digital footprint
and his friendship. Communicating openly helps his friend understand his feelings without
causing conflict.