What is the Islamic ruling on spreading false information?

False information refers to news or statements that are not true, are distorted, baseless, or create misconceptions in society. In our Sharia, spreading false information is considered immoral and a major sin. This is because spreading falsehood undermines trust and friendship among people, causes disputes and enmity in society, and leads to chaos.

The fact that spreading false information is sinful and forbidden is clearly stated in both the Qur'an and the hadiths of the Prophet (оған Алланың салауаты мен сәлемі болсын). Allah the Almighty says in the Qur'an:

"You propagated it with your tongues and uttered with your mouths that of which you had no knowledge, and you thought it was insignificant, while it was, in the sight of Allah, tremendous."

The Prophet (оған Алланың салауаты мен сәлемі болсын) said in a hadith:

"It is enough of a lie for a man to narrate everything he hears."

Therefore, it is prohibited to spread any news before verifying its authenticity.

Allah the Almighty also says in the Qur'an:

"And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart—about all those [one] will be questioned."

Thus, spreading false information is immoral and a major sin. Our Sharia strictly forbids spreading falsehood. Therefore, a Muslim must refrain from passing on any information to others without first verifying its truth.

Medet QURMASHULY

"Iman" magazine, No. 11, 2024