What are the best early warning signs that a child might be engaging with a risky online contact? 

Parenting Perspective 

Recognising the early warning signs of a risky online interaction is crucial for a child’s safety. These signs are often subtle changes in behaviour, so a parent’s calm and gentle awareness is key. 

Sudden Secrecy About Online Activity 

If a child suddenly becomes very protective over their device, quickly closes screens when you approach, or resists sharing what they are doing online, it may indicate an interaction they are hiding. While a need for privacy is normal as children grow, abrupt secrecy can be a red flag. 

Changes in Mood or Behaviour 

Notice any abrupt mood swings, particularly increased irritability after being online, or an uncharacteristic withdrawal from family life. Risky online contacts can create emotional turbulence that children often do not know how to express. 

Unexplained Gifts or Access to Paid Features 

If your child suddenly has access to new game credits, subscriptions, or even receives physical gifts with no clear explanation, it is important to ask where they came from. Unwanted contacts sometimes use gifts to build a sense of obligation and trust. 

Talking About New Friends Parents Have Not Met 

Be aware of any sudden and intense attachment to a new ‘friend’ who is only known online, especially if the child is vague about their details. This is particularly concerning if the new friend is significantly older. 

When these signs appear, they warrant a calm, open conversation rather than an immediate confrontation. The goal is to help your child feel safe enough to share, while making it clear that your concern comes from love, not a desire to control. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam guides us to be cautious and to protect ourselves and our families from influences that could cause harm to our faith or well-being. 

Protecting Oneself from Harmful Influence 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujurat (49), Verse 6: 

‘O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful…’ 

This reminds us to be discerning and to investigate matters before placing our trust, a principle that is vital for online interactions. 

Avoiding Harmful Company 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5779, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The example of a good companion and a bad companion is that of the bearer of musk and the one who pumps the bellows’ 

This teaches us that the company we keep has a direct effect on us. It is our responsibility to choose companions, both online and off, who are safe and beneficial to our character. 

By linking these early warning signs to the Islamic duty of caution, you can guide your child to see that protecting their online interactions is part of living with integrity and safeguarding their honour.