The fitnah of social media is real. With every scroll, the challenge of upholding Islamic etiquette grows more complex. In a digital world where the line between what is appropriate and what is not becomes increasingly blurred, it is essential for Muslims - both men and women - to remain conscious of their presence online.

But not all of it is inherently negative. When you understand the rights of Allah and the responsibilities your faith entrusts you with, even your time on social media can become a means of reward. Used wisely, with intention and awareness, it can be part of the good deeds that serve you in the akhirah.

Here’s what to keep in mind when navigating social media in these testing times.

Lowering your gaze 

Lowering your gaze is not only about avoiding looking at the opposite gender. It also means refraining from focusing on the faults of others such as gossip, fake news, and anything that does not benefit you or those around you.

As Abu Huraira narrated, the Prophet SAW said, “Beware of suspicion, for suspicion is the worst of false tales; do not look for others’ faults, do not spy, do not be jealous of one another, do not cut ties, and do not hate one another, O worshipers of Allah.”

In a time when news and updates are constantly at your fingertips, it is easy to get caught up in celebrity gossip, searching for others’ mistakes, and sharing opinions that serve no good purpose.

Lowering your gaze is one of the first steps to protecting your heart and stabilizing your iman. Begin by unfollowing accounts that lead you toward fitnah whether it is the opposite gender, celebrity gossip pages, or negativity and replace your feeds with accounts that promote knowledge and growth.

Control what you consume  

Excessive scrolling has become one of the most damaging habits of our time. What begins as a quick look at TikTok or Instagram can easily spiral into hours of passive consumption. To regain control, start by setting screen-time limits and holding yourself accountable to them.

What you expose your eyes and ears to directly affects the condition of your heart. Be mindful of the content you choose to consume, especially values that contradict Islamic principles.

It is disheartening to witness how some influencers lead their audiences astray. They normalize what is clearly impermissible, showcase immorality, and do so with pride. The Prophet SAW said, “Whoever sets a good precedent will receive the reward of that good and the reward of those who follow it. And whoever sets a bad precedent will bear the sin of that action and the sin of those who follow it.”

Be intentional about who you follow, what you listen to, and the kind of content you engage with. 

Turn your scrolling into a worship 

In a time full of trials and temptations, social media can still be used as a tool for reward and a means of drawing closer to Allah. In the Qur’an, Allah reminds us that every Muslim is a khalifah on this earth. That responsibility includes spreading da’wah, encouraging good, and being a positive influence in whatever space we occupy. 

Not everyone is meant to be an influencer, but simple acts like sharing a Quranic recitation, reposting reminders, or promoting knowledge can carry great weights. What matters is intention, sincerity, and staying rooted in Islamic values.

As the Prophet SAW said, “Some people open the doors to good and close the doors to evil; other people open the doors to evil and close the doors to good. Glad tidings to those in whose hands Allah places the keys to good, and woe to those in whose hands Allah places the keys to evil.”

Your scroll can be a form of ibadah. Make it count.

Stay hidden

While the curated lives of influencers may seem exciting and tempting, remember the words of the Prophet SAW, “He who acts to show off, Allah will disgrace him on the Day of Resurrection. And whoever does good deeds to gain praise, Allah will expose his hidden intentions before the people on the Day of Resurrection.”

Influencer culture often glorifies wealth, fame, and unfiltered self-expression. But for Muslims, our path is one of moderation, humility, and sincerity. A life defined by likes, shares, and followers is not the aspiration of a believer. Many scholars have cautioned against chasing fame, as it can quietly erode sincerity and lead the heart away from remembrance of Allah.

This reminder speaks especially to our sisters in Islam. You are not meant to be displayed, but protected. You’re precious, like hidden pearls. If you truly believe in the guidance of Allah and His Messenger, avoid presenting yourself online in ways that contradict the principles of modesty and the dignity of a Muslimah.

Dear sisters, remember that the ultimate goal in life is to please Allah and earn His reward, not to gain the approval of men or recognition from non-mahram. 

May every bad deed you choose to leave for the sake of Allah be multiplied on the Day of Judgment.