Is it forbidden or permissible to download cracked games, programs, and books that are expensive, carry potential risks and problems, and may be incomplete or lack certain features?
What we issue fatwas on is that intellectual property rights, and similar intangible rights, are protected and owned by their proprietors, and it is not permissible to infringe upon them. This is in accordance with the resolution issued by the Islamic Fiqh Academy. Based on this, it is absolutely not permissible to use pirated software. The fact that cracked software is of lower quality or carries risks is not a criterion for the ruling. Some scholars, such as Ibn Uthaymeen, hold the view that it is permissible to acquire such software for personal use, not for commercial purposes. For those who adopt this view, especially in cases of need, it is hoped that there will be no blame upon them.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Original fatwa ID
- 177679
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- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy