The Ruling on Buying a Computer Certificate for a Job

The questioner:
Shaykh, may Allah preserve you. About ten years ago, I applied for a position in one of the government departments, and one of the conditions was that I obtain a computer certificate. And I, Shaykh, may Allah be pleased with you, am proficient in computer work, writing and such, because I am a writer. They asked me for the certificate. I was proficient, and they tested me, and I passed the test. But they asked me for the certificate, and I had not obtained the certificate. I went to one of the existing institutes and bought a certificate from them. I was appointed to the position and completed the job, and I was proficient in computer work with no complaints against me. In addition, I took several courses in the same field. Do I have any obligation, Shaykh, regarding the fact that I bought the certificate, or...? May Allah reward you with good.

The presenter:
May Allah greet you, thank you, Abu Khalaf.

The Shaykh:
There is no doubt that you cheated in that they asked you for the certificate and you brought them a forged certificate belonging to someone else. This is cheating and is not permissible. But the important thing is performing the work. So if you performed the work and mastered it as required, even if you do not have a certificate, praise be to Allah. Yes.

The presenter:
Yes, may Allah bless you.