What should I do if my child has created a fake account or used someone else’s profile? 

Parenting Perspective 

Discovering your child has created a fake online profile can be unsettling. While they might see it as harmless fun or a way to explore, it is a serious form of dishonesty that can lead to real-world risks like cyberbullying or broken trust. The key is to address the behaviour with firm guidance rather than simple punishment. 

Approach the Conversation with Calmness 

Your initial reaction is crucial. Instead of leading with anger, begin with a calm, open question: ‘I found this account, and I would like to understand why you created it.’ Understanding their motive, whether it is curiosity or peer pressure, is the first step to addressing the root of the problem. 

Clearly Explain the Dangers 

Help them understand that this is not a victimless act. Explain that using a false identity is a form of deception that can deeply hurt others or put them in unsafe situations. Say, ‘Pretending to be someone else online can break people’s trust and has serious consequences.’ 

Establish Clear Digital Boundaries 

This is an opportunity to set firm rules for online behaviour. These should include basics like using their real age and not creating accounts without your permission. Frame these rules around safety and trust, explaining that they are in place to protect them. 

Provide Safer Alternatives 

If your child was seeking more freedom or a different kind of online experience, work with them to find safer ways to explore. This might involve finding age-appropriate platforms or supervised forums. Listening to their needs shows respect while still upholding your family’s values. 

Acknowledge Their Cooperation 

If your child is honest with you and cooperates in deleting the account, praise that choice. Saying, ‘I know this is difficult, but I am proud of you for taking responsibility and fixing it,’ reinforces that honesty is the path back to restoring trust. 

By handling this situation with calm but firm guidance, you teach your child that honesty is a non-negotiable value, both in their real and digital lives. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that deception, in any form, is a serious matter that is disliked by Allah Almighty. Creating a false identity or impersonating someone online is a modern form of falsehood that goes against the character of a true believer. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hajj (22), Verse 30: 

‘…So, abstain from the loathsome beliefs and practices of idol worship; and abstain from making false statements.’ 

This powerful verse places ‘false statement’ in the same category as avoiding the gravest of sins, showing just how seriously Islam takes the issue of falsehood. This applies to all forms of speech, including what is written online. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 102, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘He who deceives us is not one of us.’ 

The Prophet’s ﷺ words are unequivocal. Deception, regardless of the platform, places a person outside the community of believers in spirit and character. It is a direct contradiction of the prophetic example. 

By grounding digital honesty in both safety and faith, you help your child see that online actions are part of their amanah (trust) before Allah Almighty. Over time, they will learn that honesty is not just about avoiding trouble but about protecting dignity, trust, and closeness to Allah Almighty.