Allāh Almighty says: “And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.” [Al-Mā᾽idah: 2]. He, the Exalted, says: “O believers! Do not devour one another’s wealth illegally, but rather trade by mutual consent. And do not kill [each other or] yourselves. Surely Allāh is ever Merciful to you. And whoever does this sinfully and unjustly, We will burn them in the Fire. That is easy for Allāh.” [An-Nisā᾽: 29-30]. He, the Exalted, says: “O you who have believed, do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].” [Al-Baqarah: 188]. He says: “O you who have believed, do not betray Allāh and the Messenger or betray your trusts while you know [the consequence].” [Al-᾽Anfāl: 27].

Abū Hurayrah (may Allāh be pleased with him) reported that God’s Messenger once came upon a heap of grain, and when he put his hand into it his fingers felt some dampness, so he asked the owner of the grain how that came about. On being told that rain had fallen on it he said, “Why did you not put the damp part on the top of the grain so that people might see it? He who deceives has nothing to do with me.” [Narrated by Muslim].

These definitive texts indicate the prohibition of taking money unjustly, the prohibition of cheating and deception, and the prohibition of aiding in such actions.

Regarding the question: the transactions you conducted with this company through this man in the past are not held against you, as it was done without your knowledge or consent, and because you paid the full price.

However, for future transactions, it is not permissible to deal with this deceitful embezzler, as this would constitute a form of assistance to cause corruption to others and to himself.

Fatwa issued by Dr. Khālid Naṣr