This is in reference to Fatwa 90287. If a copyrighted book was copied and bought for study purpose and not for further sale and the buyer was aware of the Islamic prohibition of purchasing such books without the permission of the concerned person at the time of buying. Does he have to throw it now when he has become more particular about the Sharee'ah?

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger. We ask Allaah to exalt his mention as well as that of his family and all his companions.

The ruling in the said Fatwa is clear. However, some scholars are of the view that it is permissible if one copies them for personal usage without intending to earn money out of them or trade with them. Therefore, according to this opinion, this person is not obliged to do anything and there is no harm on him to benefit from this book. Nonetheless, he should not do this again especially if he is of the opinion that this is forbidden.

It is better if he is able to seek forgiveness from the copyright owner, then this is more appropriate and in order to be acquitted from sin.

Allaah Knows best.