Where is my Digital Footprint Stored? (And How to Protect It)
What Is a Digital Footprint?
A digital footprint is the record of everything you do online. It includes the photos you upload, the posts you write, the searches you make, and even the invisible metadata attached to your files. Most people don’t realize how many different places this data ends up. To understand where your footprint is stored, you first need to know how it’s created - a mix of intentional and unintentional traces. For a deeper dive, check out our post What Is a Digital Footprint?
Where Your Digital Footprint Lives Online
Your digital footprint isn’t stored in one place. Instead, it’s scattered across countless platforms, apps, and services.
Social Media Platforms
Every like, comment, and photo on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn is stored on that platform’s servers. Even when you delete a post, traces may remain in backups for years.
Cloud Storage Services
Photos and videos saved to iCloud, Google Photos, or Dropbox are kept in massive data centers worldwide. While these services are convenient, they often result in clutter with thousands of moments piling up in no particular order.
Websites and Apps
Shopping sites, fitness apps, and even streaming platforms keep records of your activity. This means your footprint extends far beyond just social media and email.
Why “Storage” Isn’t the Same as “Curation”
Storage is about holding data, not helping you make sense of it. While your memories may be safe, they’re rarely easy to find or enjoy. Most families end up with scattered digital clutter that feels overwhelming. That’s why storage alone isn’t enough - your footprint needs curation.
How Mae Helps Families Reclaim Their Digital Footprint
Mae doesn’t just store your memories; it curates them into meaningful collections. By organizing the photos and moments that matter most, Mae transforms your scattered footprint into a story you can actually enjoy. Instead of digital noise, you’re left with a family legacy you can pass down for generations.
