digital footprint

American  

[dij-i-tl foot-print] / ˈdɪdʒ ɪ tl ˈfʊtˌprɪnt /

noun

1. one's unique set of digital activities, actions, and communications that leave a data trace on the internet or on a computer or other digital device and can identify the particular user or device.

   Our online browsing habits are part of our passive digital footprint, created without our consent or knowledge, but our active digital footprint, especially on social media, can more easily be managed.

2. one’s overall impact, impression, or effect as manifested on the internet; online presence or visibility, as of a person or company.

   a celebrity with a large digital footprint;

   ways to expand your brand’s digital footprint.

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Etymology

Origin of digital footprint

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

As the daughter of a social media influencer, Caymi Barrett said she navigates life within a digital footprint she wished never existed.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

The transformation is perhaps the most visible in defense’s growing digital footprint.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 28, 2026

Some of Van Rootselaar’s digital footprint has already surfaced online.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 14, 2026

Gus Hosein, executive director at charity Privacy International, recommends several ways to reduce your digital footprint.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2025

There are plenty of best VPNs competing to protect your digital footprint, but NordVPN’s additional security measures make it a true industry leader.

From Salon • Jul. 1, 2018