Is the frequent exchange of messages between the sexes in online forums, which leads to familiarity and extensive conversation, considered to be among "taking secret companions" (akhdan) which is forbidden in Islamic law?

We congratulate the questioner on her keenness to distance herself from the unlawful (haram), and advise her to occupy herself with memorizing the Quran and seeking religious knowledge. She should reduce her internet usage, while utilizing it for learning and reciting the Quran with tajwid, listening to lessons on tafsir, hadith, and fiqh, and disseminating them. Connecting with men and receiving their messages is not unlawful (haram) as long as there is no suspicion. It is preferable for discussions to take place in an open forum. Merely connecting in the service of a forum does not constitute "taking secret friends." One must compare the benefit of leaving the forum versus not leaving it. If it is possible to serve Islam through other means, then leaving it is preferable. Otherwise, continue working with it while exercising caution and vigilance.