🧒 Raising children (tarbiyah) · #144

My teenager is close friends with someone he only knows online. Should I be worried?

An online friend not known in the real world should be treated with caution, not panic. Many teenagers form genuine friendships online, but a person's real identity behind a screen is hard to confirm. Do not ban it outright, because that drives him to secrecy; instead, show interest by asking who the friend is and how they met. Teach him a few safety rules: do not share his address, school or private photos, and never meet an online contact alone. Remind him to tell you if anyone makes him uncomfortable or asks for strange things. Open trust at home is the best protection, because a child who trusts you will tell you. See the family & the digital world.

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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