Egypt's Dar al-Ifta has issued a statement clarifying the Islamic stance on embezzling public funds through data manipulation. The statement, released on September 23, 2026, addresses a query regarding the legitimacy of providing false information to obtain financial assistance from the state. Dar al-Ifta emphasized that exploiting loopholes in laws and regulations to acquire public funds is strictly prohibited.
According to Dar al-Ifta, manipulating data to receive state aid earmarked for low-income families and individuals is considered a form of embezzlement. This act not only leads to the misappropriation of public funds but also denies eligible recipients their rightful assistance. The institution cited Islamic teachings, highlighting that protection of public funds is a fundamental objective of Islamic law.
The Islamic principle of safeguarding public funds is rooted in the Quran and Hadith. The Quran states, "O you who have believed, do not consume one another's wealth unjustly" (An-Nisa: 29). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that individuals are accountable for their actions, and those who engage in deceitful practices will face severe consequences.
Dar al-Ifta defined public funds as assets owned by the state or public entities, intended for the benefit of society. These funds are considered "Allah's wealth," as they are not owned by individuals but rather allocated for the welfare of the community. The institution stressed that it is essential to ensure that public funds are distributed fairly and transparently.
The Egyptian institution highlighted that legitimate means of acquiring wealth include inheritance, gifts, and lawful transactions. Conversely, manipulating data or providing false information to obtain state aid is considered an illegitimate means of acquiring wealth. Such actions are deemed equivalent to consuming others' wealth unlawfully.
Dar al-Ifta referenced various Hadith that condemn deceitful practices, including one in which the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated that lying leads to wickedness and ultimately to hellfire. The institution emphasized that exploiting public funds through data manipulation is a grave offense, both legally and morally.
In conclusion, Dar al-Ifta urged individuals to exercise caution when providing information to obtain state aid. The institution emphasized the importance of adhering to Islamic principles and laws, ensuring that public funds are distributed fairly and transparently. Those who manipulate data to obtain state aid risk facing severe penalties, both in this life and the next.
Key points
- Dar al-Ifta warns against manipulating data to obtain state aid, citing severe penalties.
- Embezzling public funds through data manipulation is considered a form of consuming others' wealth unlawfully.
- Legitimate means of acquiring wealth include inheritance, gifts, and lawful transactions.
