What are the early signs of an online 'emotional affair' with someone else that could damage a marriage?

An emotional affair begins when you start sharing your heart with someone else rather than with your own spouse. The signs include looking forward to someone's messages, hiding those conversations from your spouse, comparing your spouse with them, and pouring out your marital problems to them. Even without any touch, this shift of the heart already betrays the closeness that belongs to your spouse. If you recognise these signs in yourself, end that conversation firmly before it grows. Rebuild closeness with your spouse and draw nearer to Allah. Being honest with yourself early saves a marriage from deep wounds. See communication & emotions.