Answer:
The answer to your question is very straight forward. It is not permissible for males to talk to non mahram (those whom he can marry) females even as friends. The main reason for this is that this is a sure way to fitnah (mischief) occurring. It may start off as a friendship but could lead to various other things.
and Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Ml. Imraan Vawda
FATWA DEPT.