What is the ruling on using Windows activated with an unofficial serial from the Internet, knowing that its activation can be circumvented by certain methods?
It is not permissible to use software except through legitimate means, such as purchasing it or with the permission of its owners. Otherwise, it is considered an infringement on the intellectual property rights of its owners, which is the view adopted by Islamic Fiqh Academies. Some scholars, however, have allowed copying it for personal use only, not for commercial purposes, due to the unavailability of the original copy or the inability to purchase it. According to this view, such an act is not considered an infringement that would make the doer sinful or liable for compensation.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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