What is the ruling on speaking with a girl who is not a relative, with whom I have had a sibling-like relationship since childhood, and is this considered fornication that necessitates repentance?

The Sharia (definition) has set regulations for interaction between a man and an alien woman to block pretexts and prevent temptation. Some matters that are considered means to adultery have been called adultery by the Sharia and are forbidden. Speech with an alien woman, if it leads to temptation, falls under this prohibition. Jurists have been strict in preventing conversation with a young alien woman, yet it is permissible out of necessity, while observing Sharia regulations, ensuring the absence of temptation, and without exceeding the extent of the necessity. There is no harm in a man and an alien woman participating in public forums on social media within the bounds of Sharia, while this is prohibited in private chat and messaging programs, as they are a place of suspicion for temptation and corruption.