I was chatting with another web developer who uses Elementor as a page builder, and we got into a discussion about the pro version and its costs. He mentioned he uses the Pro Elements plugin to unlock all the pro features without paying, saying it’s totally legal because it doesn’t break Elementor’s terms.
This sounds a bit strange to me … I mean, is there really a plugin that lets you use paid features for free, and it’s actually legal? Does anyone know more about how this works from a legal perspective?
Using unofficial plugins like ‘Pro Elementor’ might technically be legal, but there are ethical and practical issues, especially if you’re running a business. Third-party plugins can be unreliable if Elementor makes big updates, which could mess with your site.
For sites that make money, it’s better to buy the official Elementor Pro license. It supports the creators and gives you access to updates, support, and security fixes. For personal projects, it might seem tempting to go with alternatives, but reliability and security can be a big concern.
Downloading plugins from unofficial sources can bring serious security risks. If you’re looking for free plugins, stick to the official WordPress.org repository or trusted developers on GitHub to make sure they’re safe. Always be cautious to keep your site secure.
Under the GPL, it’s technically allowed, so it’s legal. But you’re getting access to something the creator expects payment for, which is ethically a bit like stealing. Plus, there’s a security risk to think about too.