How can we address situations where extended family or friends post our child’s pictures without permission? 

Parenting Perspective 

This is a common and often sensitive issue. The best approach is a private, calm conversation that prioritises protecting your child while preserving your relationships with loved ones. 

Approach the Conversation Privately and Kindly 

It is always best to approach the person privately to avoid any public awkwardness. You can start by saying, ‘We really appreciate how much you love sharing moments with our child,’ before explaining that your family has specific boundaries about posting their photos online. A respectful tone is crucial. 

Explain the Safety Reasons 

Briefly and calmly explain your reasoning. You can clarify that sharing images can sometimes reveal unintended information, such as a school uniform or a location, and that your main concern is the child’s long-term safety and privacy. 

Offer Safe Alternatives 

To soften the boundary, offer positive alternatives. You could suggest creating a private family messaging group for sharing photos, or offering to print pictures for them. This allows them to enjoy and share memories without compromising safety. 

Stay Consistent in Boundaries 

If the behaviour continues, you must restate your boundary calmly but firmly. Your consistency demonstrates that this is a serious and non-negotiable rule for your family, not just a casual preference. 

This approach helps maintain family harmony while firmly protecting your child’s digital footprint. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places great importance on respecting personal boundaries and seeking permission. These principles extend to the digital world, where a person’s image is part of their private space. 

Permission Before Entering Private Space 

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 gaining permission before entering someone’s personal space, whether it is physical or digital, is a core part of Islamic etiquette. 

Respecting Privacy 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6241, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘If a person looks at you in your house without your permission and you poke his eye and damage it, you will not be blamed.’ 

This teaches the immense importance of safeguarding a person’s privacy. Respecting their right to consent before their image is shared online is a vital part of this principle.