=== Version Locker – Update Control ===
Contributors: alphadev01
Tags: disable updates, lock plugins, update manager, version control, security
Requires at least: 6.0
Tested up to: 6.9
Requires PHP: 7.4
Stable tag: 1.2.1
License: GPLv2 or later
License URI: https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html

Securely lock plugin updates. Prevent accidental or automatic updates and keep your site stable.

== Description ==

**Version Locker** gives you precise control over how plugin updates are handled in WordPress.

It allows you to lock selected plugins to their current version, hiding update notifications and blocking both **automatic and manual updates**. This helps prevent accidental updates that could break customized functionality, client sites, or production environments.

The plugin works entirely through standard WordPress hooks and filters. It does **not** modify plugin files or alter plugin code.

This is especially useful for agencies, developers, and site owners who want predictable and stable WordPress installations.

### Key Features

* **Plugin Version Locking**
  Lock selected plugins to their current version and prevent updates.

* **Blocks Auto & Manual Updates**
  Stops WordPress auto-updates and manual update attempts for locked plugins.

* **Clean Dashboard**
  Hides update notification badges for locked plugins to reduce clutter.

* **Works on Active & Inactive Plugins**
  Lock a plugin even if it is currently inactive.

* **Update Awareness**
  See when a new version is available for a locked plugin without enabling updates.

* **Audit Log (Multi-Admin Sites)**
  Records who locked or unlocked plugins and when (shown only if multiple administrators exist).

* **Safe Deletion Handling**
  Optional "Preserve Locks" mode allows temporary deletion and reinstallation of plugins without losing lock rules.

* **Native WordPress UI**
  Integrates seamlessly into the WordPress admin dashboard.

== Installation ==

1. Upload the plugin files to the `/wp-content/plugins/version-locker` directory, or install the plugin through the WordPress Plugins screen.
2. Activate the plugin through the **Plugins** menu in WordPress.
3. Go to **Tools → Version Locker** to manage plugin locks.

== Frequently Asked Questions ==

= Does this plugin modify the code of locked plugins? =
No. Version Locker does not change, overwrite, or edit plugin files. It only uses WordPress filters to control update behavior.

= Will this block both automatic and manual updates? =
Yes. Locked plugins cannot be updated automatically or manually until they are unlocked.

= Can I still see if an update is available for a locked plugin? =
Yes. While update notification badges are hidden, the Plugins list shows a small indicator next to locked plugins when a new version is available.

= Does this work for inactive plugins? =
Yes. You can lock plugins whether they are active or inactive.

= What happens if I delete a locked plugin? =
By default, the lock is removed when the plugin is deleted. You can enable **Preserve Locks** to keep lock rules if you plan to reinstall the plugin later.

= Is this plugin safe to use on production sites? =
Yes. Version Locker is designed to be safe, predictable, and reversible. Unlocking a plugin immediately restores normal update behavior.

== Screenshots ==

1. Version Locker settings page showing active and locked plugins.
2. Plugins list with locked update indicators.
3. Audit log displaying lock and unlock actions.

== Changelog ==

= 1.2.1 =
* Initial public release.
* Added plugin update locking for manual and automatic updates.
* Added support for inactive plugin locking.
* Added audit log for multi-admin environments.
* Added safe deletion handling with optional lock preservation.

== Upgrade Notice ==

= 1.2.1 =
Initial release.