How It Works

Setting up User - Static Name is straightforward: enable the plugin and select the user groups you wish to restrict from modifying their names. Once configured, users within those groups won't see an editable name field when editing their profiles, ensuring that changes cannot be made directly through form data—even for users attempting workarounds. In this latest version, the proper name field now displays as read-only on the profile edit screen, offering transparency while maintaining control.

Why Choose User - Static Name?

User - Static Name is about security and simplicity:

• Enhanced Security: Proper names are essential for account recovery and communication. Locking these names for specific user groups (e.g., administrators, high-privilege users) reduces the risk of unauthorized access or impersonation attempts, safeguarding your site's integrity.
• Consistency and Accountability: In organizations or private intranets, maintaining consistent contact information is vital for tracking users and ensuring reliable communication. Restricting name changes prevents accidental or intentional updates that could disrupt workflows or lead to lost communications.
• Compliance with Policies: Many organizations require stable user identity information for policy adherence and legal compliance (e.g., GDPR, CCPA). Ensure compliance by preventing unauthorized changes, supporting internal governance or data protection regulations.
• Preventing Abuse or Confusion: On public or semi-public Joomla sites, allowing unrestricted name changes could lead to confusion (e.g., users updating names to impersonate). Restricting changes for specific groups helps maintain order and trust for sensitive accounts.
• Simplified Administration: For sites with large user bases, managing name changes manually can be time-consuming. User - Static Name automates restrictions, reducing administrative overhead and minimizing errors, especially for support teams or IT departments overseeing multiple accounts.

Features

• Group-Based Restrictions: Prevent name changes for specific user groups with easy configuration.
• Read-Only Option: Display name fields as read-only on profile edits (new feature), balancing transparency and control.
• Seamless Integration: Prevents form data manipulation, ensuring robust security within Joomla’s framework.
• Community-Inspired: Enhanced based on user feedback, embodying a passion for free, open tools.

The User - Static Name extension is an invaluable tool for Joomla sites where proper name integrity is paramount. Use it responsibly to balance user convenience with robust protection.

By using inspiration from the previously successful "User - Static Email" and "User - Static Password" extensions, this new addition maintains the same commitment to simplicity, security, and community-driven solutions. Joomla admins can safeguard their sites against unauthorized changes while maintaining a user-friendly experience.

Special thanks to Pepe Napaka for encouraging me to amend my Static profile plugins to include this feature.