Support
Your client’s social media activity can have a direct impact
on the value of their file. Be informed.
HOW IT WORKS
Which social platforms can I monitor?
We currently support Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
How quickly can I run my first report to assess a prospective client?
In under 5 minutes, assuming the client responds to the invitation from the system. Other law firms are including Private Footprint as part of their initial client intake process for immediate validation of their client’s profiles.
Will I be able to add, edit, or delete client posts on their actual social media accounts?
No. Private Footprint only has read access to your client’s social media accounts. You will however be able to add an explanation next to posts in the report feature. The actual posts can never be manipulated.
How does this benefit my clients?
This is discussed extensively throughout the website. We encourage you to watch this video.
Is it easy for clients to provide me access to their accounts?
It’s very easy. They will receive an email invitation from the system with very easy to follow instructions. They simply click on a link and sign into their social media account(s) to authenticate (or it will authenticate automatically if they are already signed in to that social media platform).
Do clients have access to Private Footprint?
No. It is designed as a tool for their lawyers, not themselves. However, clients maintain the ability to control access to their social media platforms.
What if my client doesn’t agree to provide me access?
Sometimes, this is due to a client’s fear that you will make changes to their social accounts. We suggest you start by showing them an explanatory video developed for clients that explains the process, the benefits, and the protection of privacy. A link to this video is available in the Resources section within the application. However, should they continue to refuse, this may be of some concern as to whether or not you wish to take on this client since their social media may become potential evidence in their action.
PRIVACY & PERMISSIONS
Do I need a client’s permission to add them to Private Footprint?
Yes. You never have to ask a client for their login password. You simplify invite them and they authenticate their social media accounts themselves. You get full visibility into all their social posts and you never have to cut and paste a social report again.
Do I get access to their chats and messages (for example, Facebook Messenger)?
No. Private Footprint only accesses their social posts which include texts, images, and videos.
Should I add a clause in my retainer agreement regarding social media monitoring?
Yes, we recommend you do so. Once you create an account, you will find a sample clause under the Resources section within the application which can be used a starter template.
Can clients remove access to their social accounts?
Yes. Clients can remove access through their individual social accounts. This is an important part of permission-based access to address privacy concerns. However, a properly worded section in your retainer agreement should provide for the consequences of doing so. A sample clause is provided in the Resources section within the application.
Does Private Footprint or the Law Firm own the clients’ social media content that is accessed by Private Footprint?
No. Ownership is subject to the terms agreed to by your clients and the social media platforms (Facebook, Google, Twitter, etc.). Our robust application provides a conduit to allow you to easily view, monitor, and report on your client’s social media activity.
Do I need to ask my client for their social media login information?
No. You’ll never have to ask a client for their login credentials (username and password), creating security and privacy concerns. You simply invite then through the application and they authenticate their social accounts themselves.
If a client changes their password, will Private Footprint lose access to their social media account?
No. Private Footprint access is not dependant on the client’s password. It’s authenticated on an application to application level.
COST & BILLING
Is it really only $100 to add each file?
Yes. Other than taxes, that’s it.
Do you provide receipts so I can add the Private Footprint App as a file disbursement?
Yes. You can easily print individual receipts for every client file.
How long does each client file remain active on Private Footprint?
Every file is automatically active for 5 years for the initial $100 cost. You will be asked whether or not you wish to renew at 50% of the current cost per file at the time of renewal.
ADMINISTRATION
Should I add every file to Private Footprint?
Yes. If the client has, or had in the past five years, a Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or YouTube account. Consideration should also be given to those clients who represent a minor who also has their own social media account, or a spouse/partner who regularly posts about your client (as a couple, family events, etc.).
What if Private Footprint adds additional social media platforms, will I automatically be able to download these new posts?
Just like the initial setup process with the existing social media platforms, you will be able to easily request access from your existing clients.
Can I add multiple users from my firm?
Yes. You can add as many users as you’d like and provide them with one of four levels of access.
Can I assign clients to multiple staff members or re-assign them?
Yes. We designed Private Footprint so that a law firm can assign and reassign clients to multiple staff members.