Is it permissible to download from the internet (such as games, documentary films, and the like)?

It is not permissible to download programs that their owners prohibit from being downloaded, due to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, saying: "Muslims are bound by their conditions," and his saying: "The wealth of a Muslim person is not permissible except with his willing consent." However, if there is no evidence to prohibit downloading, then there is no harm in it, provided that the material is free from Shariah prohibitions, and that the download is not for the purpose of trading unless with the permission of the program owners.