Is it permissible to lie to those who interfere in private matters and to the envious, in order to prevent their envy and interference?

It is permissible to lie to an envier to دفع his harm, and it is preferable to use equivocation whenever possible. Imam Al-Nawawi said: "Speech is a means to achieve objectives. Any praiseworthy objective that can be achieved without lying makes lying about it forbidden. However, if it cannot be achieved except through lying, then lying is permissible. If the achievement of that objective is permissible, then lying is permissible. If it is obligatory, then lying is obligatory." If no harm is feared, then intentionally lying should be avoided; instead, equivocation should be used or one should refrain from answering. It is also advisable to gently and kindly advise anyone who meddles in affairs that do not concern them.