Is it Permissible to Sell Replica Aftermarket Components of Mobile Phones?


Hanafi Fiqh

Answered by Mawlana Ilyas Patel

Question

I trade iPhones and sometimes replace broken parts with aftermarket components that mimic the original parts, such as a back cover with an Apple logo. I inform buyers that the case is aftermarket while the internals are original.

Given Apple’s stance on not selling such spare parts, is it permissible for me to sell these phones?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.

I pray you are in good faith and health. Thank you for your question.

Purchasing replica items or components is generally allowed. However, if such an action could lead to ethical or legal complications in your country, it is advisable to avoid doing so and instead opt for the original items. Additionally, informing your customers that the items and components are replicas and copies is essential.

Some say that being mindful (taqwa) of Allah Most High means avoiding buying and selling such products. [Dar al-ifta’ Jordan; Taqi Usmani, Fiqh al-Buyu’]

Hakim Ibn Hizam (Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said,

“Both parties in a business transaction have the right to annul it, as long as they have not separated. If they are truthful and clear with one another, there is a blessing in their transaction. If they lie and conceal something, the blessing of their transaction will be eliminated.” [Bukhari; Muslim]

I would like you to go through the valuable answers and links below. You will receive guidance and direction, in sha’ Allah.

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I pray this helps with your question.
Wassalam,
[Mawlana] Ilyas Patel
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Mawlana Ilyas Patel has received traditional education in various countries. He started his schooling in the UK and completed his hifz of the Quran in India. After that, he joined an Islamic seminary in the UK, where he studied secular and Aalimiyya sciences. Later, he traveled to Karachi, Pakistan, and other Middle Eastern countries to further his education. Mawlana has served as an Imam in the Republic of Ireland for several years and taught the Quran and other Islamic sciences to both children and adults. He also worked as a teacher and librarian at a local Islamic seminary in the UK for 12 years. Presently, he lives in the UK with his wife and is interested in books and gardening.