Source: Fatāwā ʿUlamāʾ-e-Ḥadīth, Kitāb al-Ṣalāh, Volume 1
In today’s technological era, computer usage is widespread, and the use of software is essential for operating these systems. Various companies develop and sell software, which is often expensive. As a result, people copy and sell this software or share it freely through torrents without the permission of the owning companies, whose copyrights are legally protected.
Is it permissible to share such software through torrent?
Can an engineer download essential software like Microsoft Windows, Office, AutoCAD via torrents and earn income using it?
In this scenario, copying or sharing such copyrighted software without the permission of the company is impermissible. This is because these companies have invested resources and capital into developing the software, and their legal rights are reserved under copyright law.
These software products are considered legitimate commercial goods, and using them without permission is equivalent to theft. It is as though one is stealing the commercial property of the company.
❖ However, if the company itself grants permission, as is the case with various freeware or open-source software, then using and sharing such software is permissible and carries no objection.
❖ Question
In today’s technological era, computer usage is widespread, and the use of software is essential for operating these systems. Various companies develop and sell software, which is often expensive. As a result, people copy and sell this software or share it freely through torrents without the permission of the owning companies, whose copyrights are legally protected.
Is it permissible to share such software through torrent?
Can an engineer download essential software like Microsoft Windows, Office, AutoCAD via torrents and earn income using it?
❖ Answer
In this scenario, copying or sharing such copyrighted software without the permission of the company is impermissible. This is because these companies have invested resources and capital into developing the software, and their legal rights are reserved under copyright law.
These software products are considered legitimate commercial goods, and using them without permission is equivalent to theft. It is as though one is stealing the commercial property of the company.
❖ However, if the company itself grants permission, as is the case with various freeware or open-source software, then using and sharing such software is permissible and carries no objection.
