Is using Pirated softwares like Photoshop, Microsoft, etc Haraam? – Dr Zakir Naik

Summary

The video addresses the ethical and religious implications of using pirated software, specifically Photoshop, Microsoft Word, and pirated games. It discusses the Islamic perspective on copyright infringement, emphasizing that using pirated software is considered Haram, as it involves taking intellectual property without compensation. The speaker explains that while copying for personal use might be allowed in certain cases, distributing pirated copies or using software without proper licensing is prohibited. The issue of affordability is also raised, urging people not to resort to pirated software if they cannot afford the original.

Takeaways

• 😀 Pirated software, such as Photoshop and Microsoft Word, is generally considered Haram (forbidden) in Islam due to copyright infringement.
• 😀 Historically, copying texts was seen as a virtuous act, especially when there was no printing press, to preserve knowledge and share it.
• 😀 With modern technology and printing presses, the act of copying copyrighted works, including software, is now considered unethical and exploitative.
• 😀 The Islamic perspective emphasizes the protection of intellectual property rights, likening piracy to theft or cheating someone out of their rightful earnings.
• 😀 Even using pirated software for personal or educational purposes is forbidden if the software is copyrighted.
• 😀 If software has a copyright, purchasing or using pirated versions is Haram, as it deprives the creators of their due compensation.
• 😀 Some Muslims unknowingly use pirated software, but awareness of the ethical and legal implications is crucial.
• 😀 Islamic scholars and councils, such as the Muslim World League, have addressed the issue of pirated content, asserting that copying copyrighted work is wrong.
• 😀 If software is not copyrighted or if the creator allows distribution, it may be used, but this is rare for popular programs like Photoshop.
• 😀 Alternatives to pirated software, such as free versions or student discounts, are encouraged to avoid engaging in unlawful practices.

Q & A

Is using pirated software like Photoshop and Illustrator considered Haram in Islam?

Yes, using pirated software is considered Haram in Islam if the software is copyrighted. It is seen as a violation of intellectual property rights, which is prohibited in Islam.

Can pirated software be used for educational purposes in Islam?

No, even for educational purposes, using pirated software is still Haram if the software is copyrighted. Islam prohibits the act of using or distributing pirated content, as it involves taking someone's intellectual property without compensation.

What if there are no copyright laws in the country, such as in Pakistan?

Even if a country lacks copyright laws, using pirated software is still Haram. The absence of copyright laws does not justify the unlawful use of copyrighted material in Islam, as the concept of protecting intellectual property exists independently of local laws.

What is the Islamic view on copying books or research for personal use?

Islam allows copying books for personal use if there is no copyright on the material. However, distributing or selling the copied material without permission is Haram, especially if it is copyrighted.

How does technology and modern printing affect the permissibility of copying in Islam?

Previously, copying was a means of preserving and spreading knowledge. However, with modern printing technologies and widespread duplication, copying a copyrighted work without permission becomes Haram, as it deprives the original creator of rightful compensation.

Is it Haram to buy pirated software or products?

Yes, it is Haram to buy pirated software or products because it involves supporting the illegal distribution of copyrighted material, which deprives the creators and owners of their rights and profits.

Is it permissible to use pirated games according to Islamic law?

No, using pirated games is considered Haram in Islam, as they are also protected by intellectual property laws, and pirating them deprives the creators of their rightful income.

What do Islamic scholars say about using pirated software in light of modern technology?

Islamic scholars agree that using pirated software is Haram, even in light of modern technological advances, as it is seen as a form of theft of intellectual property, which is prohibited in Islam.

Can individuals use pirated software if they cannot afford the original version?

No, even if someone cannot afford the original software, they are not permitted to use pirated versions. Islam emphasizes honesty and integrity, and using pirated software is considered a form of cheating and theft.

What is the role of copyright in Islamic law regarding software and intellectual property?

In Islamic law, copyright is seen as a means of protecting intellectual property. Violating these rights by using or distributing pirated software or products is considered Haram, as it harms the creator's ability to profit from their work.