Vital info about product should be provided

KUWAIT CITY, Jan 14: A number of clerks shared their opinions on purchasing through websites and social media accounts in an interview with the daily. Clerk Muhammad Al-Najdi said Islam allows selling and buying through the Internet provided there is adequate information about the product being sold such that the buyer knows the specifications and the price. He pointed out if the buyer discovers the delivered product is not the same as advertised, the latter has the right to refrain from completing the purchase transaction.

Clerk Faisal Ghalwash affirmed there is nothing wrong in purchasing through the Internet and social media provided all the vital information about the product is available. He explained anyone who orders for items online can either refuse to receive the delivered goods or reach an agreement with the seller to reduce the price in case the delivered goods are not as advertised. Dr Ahmed Al-Eqiali added if the delivered goods do not meet the specifications mentioned in the advertisement, it can be considered swindling or commercial cheating which is prohibited by Islam.

Lecturer at Kuwait University Dr Rashed Al-Azmi affirmed it is allowed to purchase online provided the conditions stated by Islam are met. He said it is prohibited if such kind of purchase will bring about disputes and arguments and if it entails swindling. He pointed out the buyer bears the responsibility if the sold goods are defective unless he revealed the defects immediately after receiving the items. Preacher at the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Dr Adnan Al- Rashidi asserted Islam does not prohibit commercial deals online as long as such deals are in line with its teachings.