The Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) Chairman, Dr Raghib Hussain Naeemi, has deemed the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access blocked or illegal content contrary to Islamic principles.
Speaking on the matter, Dr Naeemi stated that the government’s measures to restrict access to unethical or harmful material, including banning VPNs, align with Islamic teachings.
He emphasised that using VPNs to bypass restrictions on prohibited websites constitutes “aiding in sin,” a concept explicitly forbidden in Islamic jurisprudence.
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He highlighted that while VPNs have legitimate uses for ensuring privacy and security, they are frequently misused to access immoral websites, spread false information, or enable cybercrimes.
“Such actions undermine societal norms and Islamic ethics,” he said, adding that Islamic law evaluates the purpose and method of an act to determine its permissibility.
Dr Naeemi referenced a CII meeting held in May 2023, during which recommendations were made to address the misuse of social media and internet platforms.
These included requiring social media platforms to register with authorities and banning VPNs.
He also suggested creating public awareness campaigns about ethical internet use and lauded the government’s efforts to block content harmful to public morals. He reiterated that restrictions should align with Islamic principles, urging citizens to respect such laws.
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