Ruling on studying information technology (IT) in a non-Muslim country, and the ruling on working in this field in that country

There is nothing wrong with studying information technology (IT) in a non-Muslim country.

As for working in this specialty, it is not permissible to do so if that involves helping others in sin, such as protecting information for a riba-based bank or a gambling establishment, or for organizations that are opposed to Islam, and the like. That is because Allah, may He be exalted, says (interpretation of the meaning):

“And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty”

[al-Maa’idah 5:2].

One of the obvious ways of helping in sin is if a person’s work involves surveillance (spying) of Muslim countries, or surveillance of individuals who are protected according to Islamic law in general terms, and transgressing against people’s privacy. Allah, may He be exalted, says (interpretation of the meaning):

“O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah ; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful”

[al-Hujuraat 49:12].

For more information, please see the answers to questions no. 26964, 229837 and 280577.

And Allah knows best.