Digital identity, what are we talking about?

You are right to keep your credit card number or bank details, as well as the social security number on your carte vitale. You believe that these are personal details that should not be accessible to everyone. But what about your digital identity?

Every day, when you create an online account, you provide your password, e-mail address, personal details and sometimes even a photo of your identity card. All this information forms your digital identity. What is it, what is it for and what are the issues involved? We answer all these questions in this dedicated article.

What is digital identity? 

Digital identity refers to the traces left by an Internet user on the Internet. This identity is made up of numerous elements that we sometimes disseminate without realizing it. Indeed, as soon as we consult sites with a web browser or create an account to use a mobile application, we leave digital traces. 

Each time you agree to the " Fill in the form " or " Activate your account " request, you are providing or confirming personal data to a third party.

Its components

This digital identity is complex, because it is made up of many elements. Yet it is essential to identify these elements in order to better control how personal data is used on the Internet. A better understanding of digital identity will also enable you to take full control of your data.

Personal and professional information

The first type of data consists of all information concerning your personal and professional situation. This includes your first and last name, date of birth, gender, qualifications and past and present employment. 

This information is known as declarative identity. In most cases, this information is entered directly by the individual of his or her own free will.

Online interactions

Then we have the data produced by all your interactions with the Internet. This could be a comment left on a blog, all your posts on social networks or the photos you share via different platforms. Let's not forget that avatars, usernames and "likes" are also part of these interactions.

This second type of information forms your active identity. In other words, this information is provided indirectly by your activities on the Web.

Digital media habits

The third category creates a calculated identity. It is produced by analyzing data collected by tracking the user's habits. 

This could be, for example, the sites you visit, the items you buy in online stores or the TV shows you watch on streaming platforms. 

Digital identity vs. real identity 

While this list of data recorded by third parties may make you feel uncomfortable, it's important to distinguish between digital and real identities. In fact, there is no such thing as total consistency between the person on the Internet and the real person. Online identities can be modified, created from scratch or falsified. 

For this reason, it's possible to protect yourself by behaving differently online, or simply by keeping a certain distance. However, data collection remains an obvious and entirely justified concern. The question of digital identity must therefore always be approached with caution and discernment.

How is a digital identity created? 

As we've seen, digital identity is made up of a multitude of data derived from information transmitted as well as from interactions with websites, applications or social networks.

Designing and nurturing a digital identity is therefore an ongoing process that begins as soon as you set foot in the digital world. Every action taken on the Internet shapes this identity, whether actively or passively.

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How important is digital identity? 

If personal data collection is in full swing, it's because it's of crucial importance in our modern world. 

Its role in the digital economy

Above all, personal information is essential to the functioning of the digital economy. Cookies on online stores are used to store the items in your shopping cart. Your social network posts, likes and photos form a whole that offers new opportunities for interaction. Data is also used in digital advertising to personalize the customer journey, or to precisely target a surfer with a tailor-made ad.

That's why, with all its advantages and disadvantages, personal data has gradually become an essential part of our digitalized society.

The unavoidable challenges of digital identity 

While data is useful for accessing personalized services, it's important to preserve your online reputation, privacy and data security.

That's why legislation is adapted to this situation. Article 1 of the French Data Protection Act states: " Information technology must be at the service of every citizen. Its development must take place within the framework of international cooperation. It must not infringe on human identity, human rights, privacy or individual or public freedoms.¹ ".

This reminder is essential, as poor digital identity management can have unfortunate consequences. Incorrect information can damage a person's reputation, and data on the Internet can be targeted by cybercriminals.

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1Cnil , The French Data Protection Act, 2021

How do you manage your digital identity?

To surf the Internet safely and benefit from the advantages of technology, you need to take into account the protection of your personal data. A few best practices are essential if you are to enjoy all the services of the Web with complete peace of mind.

Start by choosing strong passwords or using two-factor authentication. Regularly check the privacy settings of all the platforms you use, and always be aware of the information you share on the Web. 

By choosing products that protect your data and by remaining cautious when using digital tools, you can combine the comfort of digital with the preservation of your privacy.

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