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Can a Muslim Be a Private Investigator?

13 February, 2024
Q Is it permissible in Islam to work as a private investigator? The work may include investigating infidelity cases, fraud, surveillance, gathering information, interviews, missing people, and background checks.

Answer

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. 

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.


In this fatwa:

If your work as a private investigator is genuine and does not involve breaking any ethical guidelines or laws, then it should be fine.


In responding to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and an Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

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If your work as a private investigator is genuine and does not involve breaking any ethical guidelines or laws, then it should be fine.

These are all essential steps to protect society against crimes and offenses. One of the fundamental objectives of the Shari`ah is human welfare, including the protection of rights and ensuring security and justice and peace.

Therefore, if you intend to contribute to the security and safety of the community by working as a private investigator, and you are committed to abiding strictly by the ethical standards of Islam, then it is okay.

Almighty Allah knows best.