We all make mistakes when it comes to protecting our private information, and the Internet is set up to keep these mistakes forever. I will share a few of mine and what I did to stop my own "digital bleeding."

There are a number of reasons why people might want to clean up their "digital footprints," but all of them have to do more or less with one issue - privacy. I understand that the Internet is changing the way we think of privacy, and while having your life be an open book might sound like you have nothing to hide...is that the kind of society we are going to create? Everyone knowing everything about everyone? Who will really benefit from less privacy?

Social media tell us that using our personal information and networks will help "recommend" new friends, products, and services to us. They have the world believe that the more you share about yourself in the open... the better they can get to know you and what you like - which will enable them to find more things you might like. Which is the real side to benefit here?

There are a number of ways we can protect ourselves and our privacy, and while it may seem like a daunting task, it can be really easy to get a handle on your privacy ... while making you feel better about the security of your personal information.