Is what is taught in marketing science, such as pricing at 9.95 Riyals, or advertising large discounts in bold font with small details in fine print, or creating the illusion of customer اقبال (eagerness/demand) for the store without direct lying, considered impermissible deception (tadlis) شرعًا (Islamically), and what is the criterion for that?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
The seller must avoid deception and misleading the buyer, such as giving the impression of many buyers (Najsh) or exaggerating the demand for the shop, which is unlawful. Similarly, minimizing the numbers after the decimal point in prices (9.95) or manipulating discount percentages involves a blameworthy form of deception, which may lead to fraud and cheating. The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Deceit and trickery are in the Fire," and "Whoever cheats is not of me." The merchant must write the price and the discount amount clearly and avoid deception.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 17317
- Added here
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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