• Philosophy -> Ethics and Morality

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Should individuals have the right to completely erase their digital footprint?

Shaunna Zanini

Certainly, the right to erase one's digital footprint is a highly intriguing topic as it relates to the fundamental, ethical, and legal considerations that pertain to an individual's personal autonomy. A digital footprint is an individual's virtual representation which comprises the various online activities they undertake. Therefore, it may include personal information, such as contact details, employment history, and online purchases, among others.

There are legitimate reasons why individuals may want to erase their digital footprints, such as safeguarding against identity theft, securing their professional career, and protecting their personal privacy. As digital technology continues to advance, more people are becoming highly conscious of their online footprint. Thus, it's not uncommon for someone to remove some or all of their digital information from the internet.

However, there is the fundamental issue of autonomy and control, which should not be understated. People should have the unfettered right to control their personal data, which companies, platforms, and government could censor and access without the owner's consent. For example, cyberstalking, cyber-bullying, and other forms of online abuse, which can ruin someone's reputation and emotional wellbeing, can be perpetuated through digital footprints.

Additionally, the legal implications that surround one's digital footprint are often vague and complex. The right to erasure clauses in national and international laws require technology companies to honor and respect public requests for erasure on their platforms. Consequently, digital footprints impede the right to be forgotten, which is a right recognized in some legal jurisdictions, which grants individuals the right to have their personal data erased permanently.

On the other hand, the right to erase digital footprints should not negate the need for accountability. Accountability is a significant ethical principle that assists in ensuring that individuals face the consequences of their actions. The right to erase the digital footprint may make it difficult for law enforcement authorities to track and catch criminals and other rogue elements, who exploit the anonymity offered by the internet.

To conclude, the right to erase digital footprints is an intriguing topic with many ethical, fundamental, and legal implications. Individuals should have the right to control their personal data, but it should not absolve them of the need for accountability. While technology companies should honor and respect public requests, laws and policies that govern digital footprints should remain transparent and ethical in their application. Ultimately, the goal should be to provide individuals with the autonomy to control their digital footprint while ensuring that society and law enforcement authorities remain protected.