Why you should avoid nulled WordPress plugins and themes

Just because something appears to be “free” doesn’t mean it always is – or comes without consequences, for that matter. Read on to discover why avoiding nulled WordPress plugins and themes is a must and what to do instead.

The temptation of free

Chances are that – if you’ve ever Googled a premium WordPress plugin or theme, you’ve come across “free download” sites that pop up promising the same tool at no cost. And we admit it’s tempting: why pay when you can just grab it – especially if you’re testing or building a site on a tight budget.

But here’s the catch: those “free” versions are hardly what they seem and want you to think. They’re surely not gifts from generous developers – but nulled software and using them comes with risks that can cost you far more than the license fee you were trying to avoid.

What are nulled WordPress plugins and themes?

Nulled plugins and themes are pirated copies of premium WordPress software. It usually works out like this: someone purchases the legit version, strips out the license code and redistributes it illegally – often on shady websites. You can find out more on this practice and the name origin in this Reddit thread. Now, for full transparency we do need to address that – technically – this might not be illegal in case if a nulled plugin or theme site puts a piece of GPL-licensed software up for download. Since GPL basically allows users the freedom to run, study, share, or modify the software, it might protect them from being chased for piracy and wrong doing. This is why many premium plugin and theme authors and companies tend to include additional policies and licenses that are not being covered by the GPL, to protect them from being nullified.

And talking about WordPress, as an open-source, some assume this practice is the same thing and/or harmless. But while the WordPress core itself is free, commercial plugins and themes are not and when you download a nulled version, you’re skipping the license, support and updates that comes with that and keep your site safe and functional.

The risks and consequences of using nulled software

Using nulled software isn’t just a gray area – it’s a full red flag. Here’s why:

• Security threats: Most nulled plugins are bundled with hidden malware or backdoor. That’s how attackers gain access to your site, data, or even your customers’ information. Just think what that will do to you, your business, your reputation. Feel free to check out this example on Reddit as well.
• No updates, no support: You miss critical bug fixes, compatibility updates and new features. Your site becomes outdated – and more vulnerable – fast. Imagine the cost in time, labor and money fixing that mistake!
• Broken features & compatibility issues: Many nulled copies are incomplete or tampered with, which means things simply don’t work as intended so, instead of getting an easy fix, you’re stranded with an added trouble in your hands.
• Legal & ethical issues: Distributing or using nulled software is piracy. Beyond the legal risk, it undermines the developers who rely on licensing to keep building and improving the tools you use. We’re sure you don’t want to spend your days explaining to the officers and/or judge what your intentions were.

We also issued warnings about nulled versions of our product for exactly these reasons. It’s not just about lost revenue – it’s about protecting users and the whole ecosystem we work within.

Nulled WordPress plugins and themes common myths

Just in case you need more reassuring, we’re addressing some of the most common objections:

“WordPress is open-source, so it’s fine.”
Open-source applies only to WordPress core, not to premium plugins or themes as they come with their own licensing terms.

“Everyone does it.”
Not true. Experienced freelancers, agencies and site owners know the risks and wouldn’t jeopardize their business over saving a small fee.

“I just want to try before I buy.”
There are safer ways to test. Many plugins have free lite versions or demos for you to test it all out. Going nulled isn’t “try before buy” – it’s gambling with your site’s stability and security.

WPBakery’s official stance on nulled plugins and themes

At WPBakery, we understand the temptation, but we need to be clear: nulled versions of WPBakery Page Builder are unsafe and unauthorized.

They violate our licensing, strip away security updates and features and can harm your site – not the mention your reputation. If you’ve come across a nulled WPBakery version, please read our detailed breakdown here: WPBakery Page Builder Nulled: Risks & Warnings

A legit license gives you lifetime access to the plugin, updates, templates and reliable support.

How to recognize and avoid nulled software

Here’s how you can protect yourself:

• Download only from official sources: The developer’s website or reputable marketplaces like Envato’s CodeCanyon.
• Be skeptical of “free” premium downloads: If it looks too good to be true, it is.
• Check support and update history: Official products will always show changelogs and updates.
• Invest in your tools: Think of plugins and themes as part of your site’s foundation. You wouldn’t build your house on stolen or broken bricks, right?

How do you know if a plugin is nulled?

As mentioned above, if you’re downloading from an unofficial site (not the developer’s site or trusted marketplaces like CodeCanyon, WordPress.org, or ThemeForest) chances are you’re using a nulled software. On top of that, if a particular plugin or a theme is offered as “premium for free” or “GPL club” without a valid license. If said software comes with no regular updates, no changelog, no support options.

And finally, if you didn’t buy it from the official source, assume it’s nulled.

Are there any alternatives to nulled plugins and themes?

Instead of risking your site with nulled software, you can:

• Use the free/lite version: Many premium plugins offer limited but safe free versions.
• Look for official discounts or bundles: Developers often run promotions, or you can get packages that include multiple tools at a lower cost.
• Choose legitimate free alternatives: The WordPress.org plugin repository has thousands of vetted, secure plugins and themes for you to choose from.
• Budget for licenses as an investment: A premium plugin license often costs less than the time and money you’d spend fixing a hacked or broken site.

Final word

Bottom line: the real cost of nulled plugins isn’t about money saved – it’s about time, trust and security lost. We shared the main 4 reasons why not to use nulled plugins and themes in the hope that it’s enough to convince and reassure you – or someone who’s thinking about going that route.

If you’re considering WPBakery, do it the right way. Get WPBakery with a safe, lifetime license and build with confidence.

In the end, curious to learn: what are your thoughts and experiences with this particular topic? Share with us in the community.