Fatwa #4540228 January 2025Malaysia
The Internet and social media - Is it permissible to use?
Question
Since the origin of internet is evil, is it allowed to use? Going by the same principle, can one use whatsapp as it is owned by an evil company like Facebook or any other platforms/social media more than necessity as long as one does not use them for any haram and does not waste time i.e using as a hobby while taking a break or after finishing ones duties, for example- if someone sends me a joke or news related to current times on whatsapp and I download it
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.
Internet and other social media platforms are a double-edged sword. The good of them is good and the evil of them is evil.However,the evils of the internet and social media platforms could overweigh the good. Experts have warned that the internet and social media becomes an addiction. Hence, for this reason, it is imperative that one use them when needed. We should not use them to pass time and a means of enjoyment. Hours could be spent watching videos and reading material which is futile. If we use these for acquiring important information and when there is a need, one will be excused. We should take extra care and caution that whilst using these, we do not fall in sin. Remember, Allah Ta’ala mentions who are the successful believers:
{وَالَّذِينَ هُمْ عَنِ اللَّغْوِ مُعْرِضُونَ} [المؤمنون: 3]
Translation: And those who turn away from worthless talk. (Al-Muminoon: 3)
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Mahmood Suliman
Student Darul Iftaa
Gaborone, Botswana
Checked and Approved by,
Mufti Ebrahim Desai.
(26/08/20)