Accepting the "terms and conditions" on websites without reading them

Q: On many websites when making an account for something or placing an order an option is necessary to be ticked that says, "Do you agree to the terms and conditions?" or "Have you read the terms and conditions?" These terms are always so long that nobody reads them, but we still tick as if we have. Won't this be counted as a sin?

A: Before entering into any agreement or contract, Shariah commands that we should ensure that the agreement or contract conforms to the sharee standards. Hence, if one does not read the conditions and just signs, then if there is any condition or clause that is contrary to shariah, then one will be sinful for accepting such an impermissible contract.

And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

 

Answered by:

Mufti Zakaria Makada

Checked & Approved:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)