Q&A: Suspicion of Theft
Suspicion of Theft
Question
Someone is offering to sell me a disc with a collection of software programs (like the Otzar HaHochma responsa project Torah CD) for 1,500 shekels per unit if you buy three. The price sounds unreasonable to me, and there’s probably something shady going on here. He vaguely explains that he’s only an agent, and that some institution bought licenses and doesn’t need all of them — take it or leave it. I think it may be stolen in some way. But obviously I’d be very happy to buy it, because it’s really a bargain. Am I allowed to buy it? Do I need to insist that he come back with explanations, and if they aren’t convincing or verified, then give it up?
Answer
It is forbidden to buy stolen property. If it’s suspicious, ask him for the seller’s licenses/rights. If he can’t produce them, then apparently he doesn’t have any. You can also ask the Bar-Ilan Responsa Project or Otzar HaHochma and hear from them.