How do we help children understand that not everyone online needs to know where they live or go to school? 

Parenting Perspective 

Children often do not understand the risks associated with sharing location information. The key is to explain the ‘why’ behind this important safety rule using simple analogies they can grasp without feeling frightened. 

Explain the Difference Between Friends and Online Contacts 

Gently clarify the difference between real-life friends and online contacts. Explain that just because someone is friendly online, it does not automatically mean they are a trusted friend who should know personal details. 

Use Everyday Comparisons 

Use a simple, real-world comparison. You could explain that sharing their school name online is like wearing their school uniform in a crowded place full of strangers. It gives away information to people you do not know. 

Teach a ‘Need to Know’ Rule 

Establish a clear ‘need to know’ rule. Help them to understand that their home address and school name are private information. If someone asks for these details, their response should always be, ‘That is private, I do not share it online,’ before telling a parent. 

Reinforce Through Role-Play 

Practise how to respond in a gentle, low-pressure role-play. Ask them a casual question like, ‘Which school is that near?’ and help them to practise giving a safe, general answer or changing the subject. This builds their confidence. 

These conversations help to build a strong foundation of digital awareness and safety. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places great importance on protecting one’s privacy, safety, and dignity. These values are essential guides for how we and our children conduct ourselves online. 

Guarding Privacy is Part of Safety 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah An Noor (24), Verse 27: 

‘O you who have believed, do not enter houses other than your own houses until you ascertain welcome and greet their inhabitants…’ 

This reminds us that Islam values privacy and establishes clear boundaries before allowing others access to our personal spaces, a principle that applies to our digital lives as well. 

Protecting Dignity and Security 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2317, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘From the excellence of a person’s Islam is that he leaves what does not concern him.’ 

This teaches us that avoiding the sharing of unnecessary personal details is a way of protecting our own safety and living with dignity and wisdom.