Ethics in Technology and Social Media: An Islamic Perspective

In today’s digital-first world, our lives are increasingly intertwined with technology and social media. From early morning notifications to late-night scrolls, the digital world has become a daily companion. But amid this sea of connectivity and convenience, a pressing question arises—are we using technology ethically, especially from an Islamic point of view?

In Islam, every action, whether public or private, is guided by principles of Akhlaq (good character), Niyyah (intention), and Taqwa (Allah-consciousness). This extends to how we engage with technology and social media.

Let’s explore what Islamic ethics in the digital age look like and how we can uphold them while navigating online spaces.

“Not a word does he utter but there is a watcher by him ready (to record it).” — Surah Qaf (50:18)

The Principle of Accountability (Mas'ooliyyah)

The Qur'an reminds us that even if we don't express our day-to-day actions, Allah is always aware of our deeds, whether we do them secretly or publicly. This beautifully reflects the idea that even our digital words—comments, messages, tweets—are under divine surveillance. Technology may feel impersonal, but from an Islamic view, every digital footprint matters.

How to apply this:

Before sharing, commenting, or posting, pause and ask yourself:

Would I be comfortable if this was read out on the Day of Judgment?

That accountability should be our guiding compass.

Truthfulness and Avoiding Misinformation

Spreading unverified news, gossip, or sensational content is alarmingly common online. But Islam places immense importance on truth.

"O believers, if an evildoer brings you any news, verify ˹it˺ so you do not harm people unknowingly, becoming regretful for what you have done."- Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6)

The ethics of sharing should be rooted in verification and integrity. Whether it’s a trending topic, health tip, or religious advice—check before you click.

Respecting Privacy (Hurmat Al-Sirr)

Islam honors the dignity and privacy of every individual. Spying, stalking, or sharing someone’s private information without consent is not just unethical—it’s sinful.

"O  believers! Avoid many suspicions, ˹for˺ indeed, some suspicions are sinful. And do not spy, nor backbite one another. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of their dead brother? You would despise that!1 And fear Allah. Surely Allah is ˹the˺ Accepter of Repentance, Most Merciful." - Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12)

Practical tip: Don’t forward screenshots, share DMs, or invade personal moments for digital entertainment. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us to guard the privacy of others as we would want our own respected.

Guarding Modesty in a Visual World

In the age of reels and selfies, modesty has taken on a new challenge. While Islam encourages expressing oneself with confidence, it also emphasizes haya (modesty) in dress, speech, and mannerism—online and offline.

This doesn’t mean Muslims should be invisible online. Rather, we should be intentional and respectful in our digital self-expression.

The Prophet (ﷺ) passed by a man who was admonishing his brother regarding Haya' (pious shyness from committing religeous indiscretions) and was saying, "You are very shy, and I am afraid that might harm you." On that, Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Leave him, for Haya' is (a part) of Faith." - Sahih al-Bukhari 6118 (Book 78, Hadith 145)

Whether it’s what we post or what we consume, modesty should shape our digital habits.

Using Technology as a Tool for Good (Khidmah)

Islam encourages using what we have to benefit others.

The Messenger of Allah said: "Ask Allah for beneficial knowledge and seek refuge with Allah from knowledge that is of no benefit."- Sunan Ibn Majah 3843

So why not use your devices to share knowledge, spread kindness, or help someone? That’s where platforms like Hakma come in.

Hakma: Nurturing Ethical Tech Habits in the Youngest Users

At the intersection of technology and Islamic ethics is Hakma, a learning platform designed especially for children aged 4–12 years. Hakma introduces kids to Islamic values, general knowledge, and ethics through engaging quizzes, eBooks, audiobooks, Sparks (bite-sized knowledge shorts), and animations.

In a time when children are bombarded with mixed messages online, Hakma stands out by offering a safe, spiritually enriching, and fun digital environment. It teaches kids not just facts—but how to live ethically, even on screen.

Parents looking for a balanced approach to tech and deen will find Hakma to be a trusted ally in raising mindful, kind-hearted digital citizens. More than 30,000 parents choose Hakma for their children.

Want to give your child a digital space that nurtures their faith and curiosity?

Explore Hakma for FREE!!

Available for both Android and IOS.