What is the ruling on using free Quran applications and other software available online (such as programs for converting audios and videos on YouTube), given suspicions about their source or that they might be counterfeit or stolen? And what should be done if their source is unknown?

The fatwa we follow prohibits the use of pirated software whose owners forbid its copying, in order to preserve intellectual property rights. There is no need to investigate whether a program is original or pirated, as the default rule is permissibility. Therefore, it is permissible to benefit from it until it becomes clear that it has been pirated without permission. As for materials prepared using pirated software, it is not forbidden to benefit from them, because there is a disassociation between the prohibition of using the software and the materials prepared with it. These materials are the effort of their creator and are not part of the pirated software. It is advisable to disregard obsessive thoughts.