How do we talk to children about the dangers of sharing location or personal details online? 

Parenting Perspective 

Framing conversations about online privacy around care and protection, rather than fear, helps children see it as a normal and sensible habit. It is important to explain that what seems like a casual post can sometimes reveal more than they intend. 

Explain the Hidden Dangers 

In simple, age-appropriate language, explain how seemingly innocent details can put them at risk. Use clear examples, such as how a photo in a school sports jersey reveals their school, or how the background of a video can show their street name. This helps them understand that privacy is not just about big secrets, but about managing small, everyday details. 

Use Relatable Analogies 

Connect online privacy to real-world safety rules they already understand. You can compare personal information to a house key: just as they would never hand their key to a stranger, they should not give strangers digital keys to their life by sharing their location or daily routine. This makes the abstract concept of data privacy feel tangible and important. 

Role-Play Safe Responses 

Practising what to do in a tricky situation can build a child’s confidence immensely. Role-play how they can respond if someone online asks a personal question like, ‘Where do you live?’. Work on simple, firm, and polite refusals like, ‘That is private information’ or ‘I do not share that online’. This preparation helps them react safely and without panic if the situation arises. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches the importance of safeguarding one’s private life and being mindful of both our own safety and the safety of others. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Noor (24), Verse 30: 

‘ Say (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) to the believing men to lower their gaze (upon forbidden things); and protect their private parts (with chastity)…’ 

While this verse speaks of physical modesty, its underlying principle is about “guarding what is private”. This concept extends to all aspects of life, including our personal information, homes, and family routines. Protecting these details from public view is an act of safeguarding the dignity and security that Islam promotes. 

The definition of a good Muslim includes being a source of safety for all. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 41, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the people are safe.‘ 

This hadith highlights a dual responsibility. Just as our words and actions should never bring harm to others, we must also act with wisdom to protect ourselves from potential harm. Being careful about what personal information we share online is part of fulfilling this principle, ensuring our own safety is not compromised.