Is it permissible to use an old, non-original version of computer software for the purpose of learning and finding work?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Using non-original copies of software that is forbidden to copy and download is impermissible, as it infringes upon the rights of its owners. Fatwas to this effect have been issued by well-known scholarly bodies. These fatwas have affirmed the impermissibility of copying any software without the owner's permission, in order to preserve rights and encourage innovation. Although some contemporary scholars deem it permissible for personal benefit and not for earning money, the more cautious approach is to avoid it.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/145710
Where this answer came from
- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 145710
- 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