When we are online we are still ourselves. The way we treat people through a screen matters just as much as the way we treat people face to face. Good character, or akhlaq, means being kind, honest and gentle wherever we are.
Kind words and unkind words
Before you send a message, it helps to pause and think: "Would I like to receive this?" If the answer is no, it is best not to send it.
| Kind words | Unkind words |
|---|---|
| "Well done, that's great!" | Making fun of someone |
| "Do you want to join in?" | Leaving someone out on purpose |
| "Are you okay?" | Calling someone a mean name |
If you see someone being unkind
Sometimes you might see someone being unkind to another person online. This is sometimes called bullying. You do not have to sort it out on your own.
Put these steps in order if you see unkindness online:
- Do not join in, even if others are
- Be kind to the person who was hurt
- Tell a trusted adult what you saw
Telling a trusted adult is not "telling tales". It is a brave and caring thing to do, because it helps keep people safe.
Think before you share, and be honest
Not everything you read online is true. Before you share something, stop and ask: "Do I know this is true? Is it kind?" Being honest online means telling the truth and not pretending to be someone you are not, which helps everyone trust one another.