Is it haram to stalk someone's profile online?

Looking is not automatically stalking

Checking a new colleague's LinkedIn, a potential spouse's public profile before a meeting, or an old friend's updates is normal. Public posts are shared to be seen. The problem starts with the intention behind the looking and what it does to you.

When it becomes a problem

• Spying. Creating fake accounts to see private profiles, or tracking someone's every move, goes against the Quran's command not to spy (Quran 49:12). The Prophet ﷺ said, "Beware of suspicion... do not spy, do not envy one another" (Sahih al-Bukhari 6064).
• Looking with desire. Scrolling through photos of someone you're attracted to breaks the command to lower the gaze.
• Envy. Comparing your life to someone's highlight reel can breed jealousy and ungratefulness. See Is it haram to feel jealous of other people?
• Gossip material. Hunting for posts to screenshot and mock leads to backbiting.

The next verse gives the same command to believing women. Online, "lowering the gaze" means not lingering on images that stir desire. When a first glance happens by accident, the Prophet ﷺ told Jarir to turn his gaze away (Sahih Muslim 2159).

Checking an ex

This is one of the hardest habits for new Muslims. Keeping tabs on a former partner keeps old feelings alive and makes moving on harder. Unfollowing or muting is often the healthiest choice. See Can I stay friends with my ex on social media after becoming Muslim?

How to break the habit

• Mute, unfollow or block the account that pulls you in.
• Remove the app from your home screen or set a time limit.
• When the urge comes, say "A'udhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajim" and do something else for five minutes.
• Don't beat yourself up. Repent quietly and keep going.

For more help, see How do I deal with social media addiction as a Muslim?