Ruling of Earning Money through Live Broadcasting
29-7-2025 | IslamWeb
Question:
Assalamu Alaikum,I hope you're doing well. I’m seeking some clarity on a topic that’s become quite common today—live hosting or broadcasting on social media platforms like TikTok Live, Bigo Live, and similar apps, for both men and women.Many people earn through these platforms, but I’d like to understand from an Islamic perspective: is this kind of income considered halal or haram? I ask with genuine concern, as I want to ensure that any means of earning is in line with Islamic values
Answer:
All perfect praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad 
is His slave and Messenger.
There are many ways to make money from live streams, so it’s not possible to give one general ruling for all of them. In any case, money earned from live streaming is forbidden in the following situations:
- If the content of the stream is Haram (prohibited), like women showing their bodies, dancing, or people spreading blasphemous thoughts against religion, or mocking others.
- If the money comes from ads for alcohol or other forbidden things.
In addition to what was previously mentioned, if the situation involves a competition between two streamers, such as a challenge where the winner is determined by which one receives more money from their followers during the stream, then spending money in such contests, which are typical on platforms known for its purposeless content, is not permitted. This is because it is forbidden to spend money on things that offer no benefit either in religious or worldly matters.
Likewise, if the challenge itself involves something prohibited in Islam, then it becomes even more prohibited. Additionally, it is also forbidden if the money is obtained through begging or asking for donations from viewers, especially when the streamer is not genuinely in need or deceives the audience into believing that they are in need when they are not.
However, if the broadcast content is permissible and free from such religious prohibitions, and the viewers give money without being asked or placing bets, then there is no harm in that.
Allah knows best.