Is it permissible to purchase or download the non-original and expensive Cinema 4D program for personal use and as a hobby, given that the original version is not available for sale locally?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Scholars have differed on the use of pirated software, holding three opinions: absolute prohibition, absolute permissibility, or a detailed view allowing it for personal use but not for commercial use. The high price does not alter the ruling for those who hold the view of prohibition. However, for those who hold the view of permissibility or the detailed view, there is no harm in using a non-original copy for personal use. The preponderant opinion is to avoid it, especially if the matter is merely a hobby and there is no pressing need.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/134176
Where this answer came from
- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 134176
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy