=== Vctlo 404 Redirector ===
Contributors: vctlocom
Tags: 404, redirect, custom url, seo, user experience
Requires at least: 4.0
Tested up to: 6.8
Stable tag: 1.1
Requires PHP: 5.6
License: GPL-2.0-or-later
License URI: https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html

Redirect 404 pages to a custom URL with secure sanitization for better user experience and SEO.

== Description ==
Vctlo 404 Redirector is a lightweight WordPress plugin that allows you to redirect all 404 (Not Found) pages to a custom URL via a simple settings page. Version 1.1 includes URL sanitization for enhanced security, ensuring safe redirects. Using 301 permanent redirects, it supports SEO while keeping visitors engaged.

Key Features:
- Redirect 404 pages to any valid URL.
- Secure URL sanitization to prevent invalid redirects.
- Easy-to-use settings page in the WordPress admin panel.
- SEO-friendly 301 redirects.
- Lightweight and performance-optimized.

== Installation ==
1. Upload the `vctlo-404-redirector` folder to the `/wp-content/plugins/` directory.
2. Activate the plugin through the 'Plugins' menu in WordPress.
3. Go to `Settings > 404 Redirect` in your WordPress admin panel.
4. Enter the URL you want to redirect 404 pages to and save your changes.

== Frequently Asked Questions ==
= What happens if I enter an invalid URL? =
The plugin sanitizes the URL and defaults to your site’s homepage if the input is invalid.

= Can I redirect to an external website? =
Yes, any valid URL (e.g., https://example.com) can be used, including external sites.

= Is this plugin good for SEO? =
Absolutely! It uses 301 redirects, which pass link equity to the new URL, supporting your SEO efforts.

== Changelog ==
= 1.1 =
* Added URL sanitization for improved security.
* Set default redirect to homepage if no URL is specified penalization.

= 1.0 =
* Initial release of the plugin.

== Upgrade Notice ==
= 1.1 =
This update adds URL sanitization for safer redirects. No action is needed beyond updating the plugin.