In her response to this question, the Da`iyah, Zienab Mostafa, a prominent Muslim scholar and Da`iyah, states,
“There is no such concept of boyfriend or girlfriend in Islam. Islam regulates the interaction between and men and women, and puts very clear guidelines of fulfilling one’s desire in the lawful way.
The only acceptable way is through marriage. Extra-marital relations resulting in fornication is called zina, which is regarded as one of the worst sins in Islam. The man and woman involved in this act must sincerely repent to Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins. They can, after repentance, get married and correct their mistakes.
as for the second question, it is not true, even though it is a sinful and forbidden act. Some people say this in order to discourage people from the severity of the action.”
May Allah guide all of us to what pleases Him!