Ethics of Information and Social Media

Digital responsibility requires checking sources, respecting privacy and correcting misinformation. Speed and popularity are not evidence. A forwarded message may cause harm even when the sender did not invent it.

A message can reach hundreds of people in a few seconds, but speed is not proof. Qur'an 49:6 tells believers to verify reports before acting in ways that may harm others. Before forwarding a screenshot, find the original source, check the date, look for missing context and think about the effect on a real person. Screenshots can be edited, and an old video may be presented as if it happened today. Never share another student's home address, passwords or private images without permission. If an unknown person asks for a one-time password, do not send it, even if the message claims to be from a support team. If a message threatens someone or involves exploitation, stop responding when safe, save the information needed for a complaint without circulating harmful material, and tell a trusted adult or appropriate service. Responsible digital behaviour includes correcting an error after discovering it. Make a four-step 'check before sharing' plan and practise it on a harmless example.