Restrict Posting By Forum

[MarkFL]

The add-on is in response to a request posted by Stratis (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/member.php?u=369554) in this thread:

Deny more than x posts in a specific forum (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showthread.php?t=320737)

Stratis has been instrumental in the testing and development of this add-on. :up:

Overview:

This product allows you to select forums in which posting is restricted to a maximum number of posts, which you decide. Restrictions can be for all new posts including new threads, or new posts excluding new threads, or to posting within the threads of others only or posting new threads only. You may exclude selected usergroups from the restriction. Users who attempt to circumvent the product by manually entering URLs in their browsers will be shown the no permission message. You may decide to only count posts within the last x days to determine whether a user may post or not.

Updates:

Version 1.1:


Added a setting whereby individual users may be excluded from the posting restriction regardless of usergroup.


Version 1.2:


Added informative message to users for who posting is restricted.
All posting links are now hidden by setting appropriate variables used in template conditionals rather than simply hiding them using CSS.


Version 1.3:


Bug fixed where users were told they have no permission to post.


Version 1.4:


Exempt userlist trimmed for greater compatibility across platforms.


Version 1.4.1:


Made $threadinfo global for wider compatibility.


Version 1.5:


Added setting which allows only posts made within the last x days to be counted for the restriction.


Version 1.6:


Added setting which allows users to be restricted from posting new threads.
Added setting which allows a choice of time unit for counting posts/threads.


Version 1.7:


Post counts calculated immediately prior to posting new threads/replies so that posting from tab with no restriction by opening new tab with posting link is no longer possible.


Version 1.8:


Added setting to allow control over whether child forums are included in the slected restricted forums.
Added setting to allow all restricted forums to be treated as a group, or to be treated separately.


Version 1.9:


Added setting to allow for individually defined post limits for the restricted forums.


Version 1.9.5:


Restricted posting message on both the "forum display" and "show thread" pages now displayed both above and below threads/posts.


Version 1.9.6:


Fixed bug where only last individual forum|restriction was recognized on some servers.


Compatibility:

Tested and working on VB 4.2.x and should work on all 4.x versions of vBulletin.

Backup/Warning:

This product does not alter your database, however it is always good practice to make regular backups and you should make a backup before installing ANY new mod.

As always, products are USE AT YOUR OWN RISK. I will provide support and do my best to help but no absolute guarantee is offered.

To Install:


Download and extract the attached .zip file.
Follow AdminCP -> Plugins & Products -> Manage Products -> Add/Import Product.
Click on "Choose File" and browse to the product .xml file that was packaged in the .zip file.
Click "Import."
You MUST enable the product in the settings before it will function.
Configure the remaining settings to your liking. Each setting has a detailed explanation of its use.


https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/attachment.php?attachmentid=154088&stc=1&d=1454043772

Support for this product can be found here:


MHB - Restrict Posting By Forum (http://mathhelpboards.com/vbulletin-products-61/restrict-posting-forum-21857.html)
TAZ - Restrict Posting By Forum (https://theadminzone.com/threads/restrict-posting-by-forum.145143/)

[akz645]

Questions:
1) If person A was in usergroup X and lets say usergroup X had a 'post limit' of 5.
Lets say person A posted 4 times.
Now person B is also in usergroup X and posted 3 times.
Is this possible?
So basically, I want to know if it restricts the entire usergroup to 5 posts or just a single user in that usergroup to 5 posts.

2) What if I wanted different 'post limit' on different forums?

3) What if I wanted different 'Nature of restriction' on different forums?

[MarkFL]

Questions:
1) If person A was in usergroup X and lets say usergroup X had a 'post limit' of 5.
Lets say person A posted 4 times.
Now person B is also in usergroup X and posted 3 times.
Is this possible?
So basically, I want to know if it restricts the entire usergroup to 5 posts or just a single user in that usergroup to 5 posts.

The restriction does not apply for each usergroup as a whole, but for each individual.

2) What if I wanted different 'post limit' on different forums?

3) What if I wanted different 'Nature of restriction' on different forums?

At this time, both the post limit and the nature of the restriction apply to all restricted forums. I may look into allowing defining separate restrictions for each forum. :)

[MarkFL]

Update Version 1.1:


Added a setting whereby individual users may be excluded from the posting restriction regardless of usergroup.

[Stratis]

New future tested, excellent, works like a charm and very useful. :up:

[MarkFL]

Update Version 1.2:


Added informative message to users for who posting is restricted.
All posting links are now hidden by setting appropriate variables used in template conditionals rather than simply hiding them using CSS.

[MarkFL]

Update Version 1.4:


Exempt userlist trimmed for greater compatibility across platforms.

[Stratis]

Great success to all. Thanks Mark for another time :up:

[socialteenz]

Great work Mark.

Thank you.

[jagtpf]

Would it be possible to extend this to limit new threads in a 24 hour period, by Forum and Usergroup, whilst allowing unlimited posts?

We use good will to limit one Usergroup to 2 New, another Usergroup to 3 New - whilst posting is unlimited. It mostly works except for excitable newbies and the occasional mis-counter :D

[MarkFL]

Would it be possible to extend this to limit new threads in a 24 hour period, by Forum and Usergroup, whilst allowing unlimited posts?

We use good will to limit one Usergroup to 2 New, another Usergroup to 3 New - whilst posting is unlimited. It mostly works except for excitable newbies and the occasional mis-counter :D

Yes, I think this would be easy to do, and I will update this product to allow the nature of the restriction to either be based on totals or based on posts/threads created within the last x days. :)

[jagtpf]

Thanks Mark ....

[MarkFL]

Update version 1.5:


Added setting which allows only posts made within the last x days to be counted for the restriction.

[akz645]

Update version 1.5:Question:
- If a User's Primary usergroup is [X] and Secondary is [Y]. If usergroup [X] is restricted but usergroup [Y] isn't, the user will not be restricted. Right?

https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showthread.php?t=131014
Screenshots: http://i.imgur.com/Z2NIDv2.png + http://i.imgur.com/9sgXF6v.png + http://i.imgur.com/WdYgHYb.png + http://i.imgur.com/l0VStRm.png

That mod (works on vB 4.2.3) allows on a per forum & usergroup basis OR just on a usergroup basis (usergroup manger).
It also allows us to restrict in minutes, which is better than days IMO (more choice).

Features I'd like which are in your (MarkFL) mod, but not in the other one:
- Exclude users. (Although it would be better if we could also exclude based on each individual setting, and not just globally.)
- Posting in threads begun by other users only.
Note: If added into the other mod (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showthread.php?t=131014)/this mod, it should be on a per forum & usergroup basis.

Feature I would like which are in neither Mods at the moment:
- Posting in threads begun by own users only. (The other Mod (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showthread.php?t=131014) combines posts in own threads and others threads together.)
A) Floodcheck: Limit in seconds.
So basically, another option for everything, but this time allowing us to also limit in seconds.
Example: Usergroup [Y] is limited to [2] posts every [30] seconds & is also limited to [5] posts every [10] mins - both in [X] forum.
OR
B) If possible, allow us to keep on adding as many conditions as we want (this would be more useful than option A).
Example: Usergroup [Z] is limited to [1] post every [10] seconds, [2] posts every [25] seconds, [3] posts every [60] seconds ... in [X] forum.
Seconds can be converted into minutes and be used multiple times, so having minutes in this case would no longer be unnecessary.
31557600 seconds/year -> Should still be possible. So still allowing the numbers to reach as high as possible, as long as there isn't any major drawbacks.
Note: If added into the other mod/this mod, it should be on a per forum & usergroup basis.

@MarkFL
If you could make this happen, I'd be ever so grateful. :up:

Edit:
Additional feature:
- The error message the user receives, the admin via adminCP should be able to write out (hyperlinking texts should be allowed).
Example: "Sorry, you must wait longer to begin posting again. Please read this thread (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showpost.php?p=2560502&postcount=14) to understand why."
^ Perhaps you can make it so, admins can set different messages on a per usergroup & forum basis.

[MarkFL]

Question:
- If a User's Primary usergroup is [X] and Secondary is [Y]. If usergroup [X] is restricted but usergroup [Y] isn't, the user will not be restricted. Right?

If you exclude a certain usergroup, then anyone who is a member of that usergroup, whether primary or secondary, will be excluded.

...That mod (works on vB 4.2.3) allows on a per forum & usergroup basis OR just on a usergroup basis (usergroup manger).

You can set this product to restrict all forums to have the restriction be based on usergroup/username.

Feature I would like which are in neither Mods at the moment:
- Posting in threads begun by own users only. (The other Mod combines posts in own threads and others threads together.)
A) Floodcheck: Limit in seconds.
So basically, another option for everything, but this time allowing us to also limit in seconds.
Example: Usergroup [Y] is limited to [2] posts every [30] seconds & is also limited to [5] posts every [10] mins - both in [X] forum.
OR
B) If possible, allow us to keep on adding as many conditions as we want (this would be more useful than option A).
Example: Usergroup [Z] is limited to [1] post every [10] seconds, [2] posts every [25] seconds, [3] posts every [60] seconds ... in [X] forum.
Seconds can be converted into minutes and be used multiple times, so having minutes in this case would no longer be unnecessary.
31557600 seconds/year -> Should still be possible. So still allowing the numbers to reach as high as possible, as long as there isn't any major drawbacks.
Note: If added into the other mod/this mod, it should be on a per forum & usergroup basis.

@MarkFL
If you could make this happen, I'd be ever so grateful. :up:

I will take all of this into consideration. :)

[jagtpf]

Downloaded to have a looksee - and it looks as impressive as expected. Hopefully you'll be able to pull off the restriction on new threads.

One thought; perhaps minutes rather than days for the time limit?

Thank you Sir ...

[MarkFL]

Hopefully you'll be able to pull off the restriction on new threads.

Do you mean a restriction on creating new threads only, while allowing posting to existing threads unrestricted?

I will soon add a setting whereby the admin can choose the unit of time (seconds, minutes, hours and days) for the restriction. :)

[MarkFL]

Update version 1.6:


Added setting which allows users to be restricted from posting new threads.
Added setting which allows a choice of time unit for counting posts/threads.

[akz645]

Question:
- Posting in threads begun by other users only.
Is that settings for both existing & new threads?

If so, you could add in 2 additional features.
Example:
- Posting in existing & new threads begun by other users only - which you already have called: "Posting in threads begun by other users only".
- Posting in existing threads begun by other users only.
- Posting in new threads begun by other users only.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/external/2015/12/19.png
I think it would be less confusing/better, if the last two options were swapped around.
So to look like this instead:
https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/external/2015/12/20.png
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Added setting which allows a choice of time unit for counting posts/threads.I can't believe I never even thought about that before. Great job :up:

[MarkFL]

Here's how the "Nature Of Restriction" setting works:


New Threads And Posting In All Existing Threads - A user's posts in all threads in the subforum are counted. If this count is equal to or greater than the maximum allowed, then they will be prevented from posting new threads and replying to all existing threads.
Posting In All Existing Threads Only - A user's posts in all threads in the subforum are counted. If this count is equal to or greater than the maximum allowed, then they will be prevented from replying to all existing threads, but may start new threads.
Posting In Threads Begun By Other Users Only - A user's posts in all threads they didn't start in the subforum are counted. If this count is equal to or greater than the maximum allowed, then they will be prevented from replying to all threads they didn't start, but may start new threads..
New Threads Only - A user's threads in the subforum are counted. If this count is equal to or greater than the maximum allowed, then they will be prevented from posting new threads but may reply to all existing threads.

[akz645]

Question:
- If a User's Primary usergroup is [X] and Secondary is [Y]. If usergroup [X] is restricted but usergroup [Y] isn't, the user will not be restricted. Right?
If you exclude a certain usergroup, then anyone who is a member of that usergroup, whether primary or secondary, will be excluded.
Answer: Yes.
I just tested myself, to make sure there were no bugs.
We just used different terminology, as I don't think Mark felt comfortable answering my Yes/No question, with the terminology I used.
--------------------------------------
Question:
- Posting in threads begun by other users only.
Is that settings for both existing & new threads?
Here's how the "Nature Of Restriction" setting works:
Thanks for that. But you don't actually answer my question.

So, I'll try and do a quick test now to see.
Then I can explain the question to you further with screenshots and whatnot (real/a more specific example).

Edit: My post below should also be helpful to those who can't specifically discern what the functionality of this mod does (assuming your explanation isn't enough).

[akz645]

Example:
AdminCP settings: http://i.imgur.com/51fEQ4Q.png
Users profile settings: http://i.imgur.com/SYRwzpt.png

This is what happens if you try and go beyond the restriction:
http://tinyurl.com/z57568k OR http://tinyurl.com/oj7pegs
Note: Once you're going to hit the limit, this is what appears: http://i.imgur.com/OucPmeE.png
Basically, you must refresh the page if you want to continue to the post.



New Threads And Posting In All Existing Threads - A user's posts in all threads in the subforum are counted. If this count is equal to or greater than the maximum allowed, then they will be prevented from posting new threads and replying to all existing threads.



My test results:
[2] posts at maximum. You can not do the following after the limit (for [2 mins]):
A) Replying in existing threads created by yourself.
B) Replying in existing threads created by others.
C) Creating new threads. Note: Creating a thread, increases your post count by 1.
D) Replying in new threads created by yourself.
E) Replying in new threads created by others.



Posting In All Existing Threads Only - A user's posts in all threads in the subforum are counted. If this count is equal to or greater than the maximum allowed, then they will be prevented from replying to all existing threads, but may start new threads.



My test results:
[2] posts at maximum. You can not do the following after the limit (for [2 mins]):
A) Replying in existing threads created by yourself.
B) Replying in existing threads created by others.
D) Replying in new threads created by yourself.
E) Replying in new threads created by others.

What you can do the following after the limit (for [2 mins]):
C) Creating new threads. Note: Creating a thread, increases your post count by 1.



Posting In Threads Begun By Other Users Only - A user's posts in all threads they didn't start in the subforum are counted. If this count is equal to or greater than the maximum allowed, then they will be prevented from replying to all threads they didn't start, but may start new threads..



My test results:
[2] posts at maximum. You can not do the following after the limit (for [2 mins]):
A) Replying in existing threads created by others.
E) Replying in new threads created by others.

What you can do the following after the limit (for [2 mins]):
B) Replying in existing threads created by yourself.
C) Creating new threads. Note: Creating a thread, increases your post count by 1.
D) Replying in new threads created by yourself.



New Threads Only - A user's threads in the subforum are counted. If this count is equal to or greater than the maximum allowed, then they will be prevented from posting new threads but may reply to all existing threads.



My test results:
[2] posts at maximum. You can not do the following after the limit (for [2 mins]):
C) Creating new threads. Note: Creating a thread, increases your post count by 1.

What you can do the following after the limit (for [2 mins]):
A) Replying in existing threads created by yourself.
B) Replying in existing threads created by others.
C) Replying in new threads created by yourself.
E) Replying in new threads created by others.


@MarkFL
1)
What about not being able to do:
A) Replying in existing threads created by yourself.
B) Replying in existing threads created by others.

But still can do:
C) Creating new threads. Note: Creating a thread, increases your post count by 1.
D) Replying in new threads created by yourself.
E) Replying in new threads created by others.

2)
What about not being able to do:
C) Creating new threads. Note: Creating a thread, increases your post count by 1.
D) Replying in new threads created by yourself.
E) Replying in new threads created by others.

But still can do:
A) Replying in existing threads created by yourself.
B) Replying in existing threads created by others.

^ That's basically the two I was referring to in my question above (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showthread.php?p=2560613#post2560613).
Although now that I've formatted it this way, I realise there are far more variations that can be done (http://i.imgur.com/R4t6Fba.png) than I initially expected.

[MarkFL]

Did you find the product did not behave as I stated? If so, where?

I tested it, and everything seemed to work, but at present I would like to know if there is anything you find not working as I stated. Once I know no one is finding any unexpected behavior (you know, bugs), then I will consider adding other features. But for right now, I have several other things I want to get done first.

[akz645]

Did you find the product did not behave as I stated? If so, where?
https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/external/2015/12/17.png
Question:
- Posting in threads begun by other users only.
Is that settings for both existing & new threads?Direct answer to my question:
- Yes, but for replies only.
The term "posting" is too general and therefore can lead to confusion.

These are the 5 conditions:
A) Replying in existing threads created by yourself.
B) Replying in existing threads created by others.
C) Creating new threads. Note: Creating a thread, increases your post count by 1.
D) Replying in new threads created by yourself.
E) Replying in new threads created by others.

Your explanation doesn't specify between all the terms (which my post above should help users with).
Specifically, you don't distinguish between posts as replies or posts as threads.
- Replying in [own/others] [existing/new] thread OR when creating [own thread] (still increases post count).


If so, you could add in 2 additional features.
Example:
- Posting in existing & new threads begun by other users only - which you already have called: "Posting in threads begun by other users only".
[1]- Posting in existing threads begun by other users only.
[2]- Posting in new threads begun by other users only.

@MarkFL
1)
What about not being able to do:
A) Replying in existing threads created by yourself.
B) Replying in existing threads created by others.

But still can do:
C) Creating new threads. Note: Creating a thread, increases your post count by 1.
D) Replying in new threads created by yourself.
E) Replying in new threads created by others.

2)
What about not being able to do:
C) Creating new threads. Note: Creating a thread, increases your post count by 1.
D) Replying in new threads created by yourself.
E) Replying in new threads created by others.

But still can do:
A) Replying in existing threads created by yourself.
B) Replying in existing threads created by others.

^ That's basically the two I was referring to in my question above (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showthread.php?p=2560613#post2560613).
Although now that I've formatted it this way, I realise there are far more variations that can be done (http://i.imgur.com/R4t6Fba.png) than I initially expected.

Summary:

New Suggestion:

Instead of radio buttons, have each condition as a standalone setting, where users can decide what specifically they want to limit (if any). Example:
- Replying in a existing thread created by yourself? [Enter Post Count Number],[Enter Time Duration Number]
Note: Leave Post Count Number blank to leave it as unlimited/the vBulletin default. Set it to 0 if you want to stop them from posting altogether.
Note 2: Leave Time Duration Number blank to as unlimited/the vBulletin default. Setting to 0 means you don't want any positing restrictions to apply.
- Replying in existing threads created by others? [Enter Post Count Number],[Enter Time Duration Number]
- Creating new threads. [Enter Post Count Number],[Enter Time Duration Number]
Note 3: Creating a thread, increases your post count by 1.
- Replying in new threads created by yourself. [Enter Post Count Number],[Enter Time Duration Number]
- Replying in new threads created by others. [Enter Post Count Number],[Enter Time Duration Number]

Other (3) Suggestions (ignore previous post suggestions):

- Exclude Users &/or Usergroups. (Although it would be better if we could also exclude based on each individual setting, and not just globally.)
Note: If added into the other mod (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showthread.php?t=131014)/this mod, it should be on a per forum & usergroup basis.

Feature I would like which are in neither Mods at the moment:
B) If possible, allow us to keep on adding as many conditions as we want.
Example: Usergroup [Z] is limited to [1] post every [10] seconds, [2] posts every [25] seconds, [3] posts every [60] seconds ... in [X] forum.
Note: If added into the other mod/this mod, it should be on a per forum & usergroup basis.

Additional feature:
- The error message the user receives, the admin via adminCP should be able to write out (hyperlink, bold, italics & underlining texts should all be allowed).
Example: "Sorry, you must wait longer to begin posting again. Please read this thread (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showpost.php?p=2560628&postcount=24) to understand why."
^ Perhaps you can make it so, admins can set different messages on a per usergroup & forum basis.

[akz645]

I tested it, and everything seemed to work, but at present I would like to know if there is anything you find not working as I stated. Once I know no one is finding any unexpected behavior (you know, bugs), then I will consider adding other features. But for right now, I have several other things I want to get done first.

I just discovered a bug right now:

- If you press the backspace/have another tab where you aren't restricted, you can still actually reply/create a new thread.

To prevent this, shouldn't you create your mod like the other mod (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showthread.php?t=131014), so an error appears immediately even if the user hasn't refreshed the page?
Example of a method (which you'd need to code in) when replying in a thread that should solve this bug:
https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/external/2015/12/15.png
Example of a method (which you'd need to code in) when creating a thread that should solve this bug:
https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/external/2015/12/16.png

P.S:
My post here is long (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showpost.php?p=2560624&postcount=22), because it's mostly to help avoid confusion.
Not just for you to understand me, but for others to understand all your settings better.

[jagtpf]

Do you mean a restriction on creating new threads only, while allowing posting to existing threads unrestricted?

I will soon add a setting whereby the admin can choose the unit of time (seconds, minutes, hours and days) for the restriction. :)

My apologies for missing this - all vbulletin.org notifications were flying into our spam box!

Yes. The restriction on creating New Threads - whilst leaving posts/replies as unlimited.

[jagtpf]

I'll download and have a look at this Mark - many thanks for all your work.

One issue I can see is that the restriction can only be set for 1 usergroup? (unless I've read incorrectly).
In other words would it be possible for usergroup A to be restricted to 2 new threads, whilst usergroup X is restricted to 3 .... still allowing no restriction for Staff etc...

Brilliant work, though. Again many thanks.

[MarkFL]

I'll download and have a look at this Mark - many thanks for all your work.

One issue I can see is that the restriction can only be set for 1 usergroup? (unless I've read incorrectly).
In other words would it be possible for usergroup A to be restricted to 2 new threads, whilst usergroup X is restricted to 3 .... still allowing no restriction for Staff etc...

Brilliant work, though. Again many thanks.

As of now, the restriction is the same number of posts for all usergroups included in the restriction. :)

[akz645]

Did you find the product did not behave as I stated? If so, where?

I tested it, and everything seemed to work, but at present I would like to know if there is anything you find not working as I stated. Once I know no one is finding any unexpected behavior (you know, bugs),

I just discovered a bug right now:

- If you press the backspace/have another tab where you aren't restricted, you can still actually reply/create a new thread.



What about that Bug.

You never replied back to me, or checked my PM...

https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/external/2015/12/14.png

[MarkFL]

What about that Bug.

You never replied back to me, or checked my PM...

https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/external/2015/12/14.png

I do plan to investigate this soon...however, I have been receiving many PMs from users for help with their sites (on which I place a high priority) and working on other projects too.

I appreciate your feedback, and I apologize for not responding to your PM to at least let you know I will do my best to address the issue you found with this product. I also plan to allow for more extensive definitions of restrictions, on a per forum/per usergroup/per user basis. :)

[MarkFL]

Update version 1.7:


Post counts calculated immediately prior to posting new threads/replies so that posting from tab with no restriction by opening new tab with posting link is no longer possible.

[Stratis]

Thanks for the updates, makes your work better and double better for us :up:

Something else.
In previous versions you had the phrase:
"You have made the maximum number of posts in this forum and cannot post any further."
After that I see:
"You are restricted from posting in this thread."

I have translated this to my needs and in Greek language. Some users ask my team members
why they are restricted and some of them don't know that they have reached the maximum number of posts.

Perhaps it would be better if they know to how many post they are restricted?
So in the phrase if its possible to include the code {1} or what else to show how many post is the restriction. sorry for my bad English :p


Thanks for all stuff and help you give us :)

P.S. If its possible and if others here likes it? when ever make an update again include this...

[Alan_SP]

I take a look at the code and see it wouldn't be very easy to change this mod in restricting posting in certain threads. But, if you found time and will to make it, it would be great if only certain threads can be restricted.

On my site is popular for people to ask questions, but some really ask too many questions. I don't want to block them from writing at all in certain forums, but if certain threads would be only for asking questions, this would control them.

[tanzeelniazi]

can you please add
Posting Limit in Different forums
Threads Limit in different forum
Usergroup Posting limit in different forum
Please add more tabs to select posting limit by usegroup for different forums/Sections

[jagtpf]

Thanks for this Mark.

[jagtpf]

Confusingly 20 odd Forums are under restriction for "Members" -
the limit for New Threads -
within 1440 minutes,
and yet a newbie posted 4 within 28 minutes.

That suggests to me that the restriction is limiting 2 in each of these Forums - not across the whole of the 20+.

[jagtpf]

I had the checks along side each Child Forum as appropriate.

I stripped out the settings and, instead, checked by Forum instead of Child-Forum - but the result is the same.

I guess that's how the mod was designed?

[MarkFL]

Confusingly 20 odd Forums are under restriction for "Members" -
the limit for New Threads -
within 1440 minutes,
and yet a newbie posted 4 within 28 minutes.

That suggests to me that the restriction is limiting 2 in each of these Forums - not across the whole of the 20+.

Yes, if you have several forums restricted, users will be able to post up to the limit in each of the restricted forums. Suppose you have the restriction set to a maximum of 5 posts, then they can post up to 5 times in each restricted forum, not a total of 5 posts over all of the restricted forums.

Would you like a setting that will allow the restriction to be totaled over all restricted forums?

I had the checks along side each Child Forum as appropriate.

I stripped out the settings and, instead, checked by Forum instead of Child-Forum - but the result is the same.

I guess that's how the mod was designed?

Yes, child forums are included in the restriction by design. I should have made a note of that in the setting description, but didn't.

Would you prefer a setting to let you decide whether child forums are included?

[jagtpf]

Hi Mark - It was hoped that the restriction would affect all Forums as if they were grouped. As you rightly say, 20+ Child-Forums, restricted to 2, would equal 40+ new threads whereas the hope was those 20+ Child-Forums would be restricted enmass to 2 new threads.

Using Forums, rather than Child-Forums; would that be an easier way to go about it? Those 20+ Children are over 3 Forums.

[MarkFL]

Hi Mark - It was hoped that the restriction would affect all Forums as if they were grouped. As you rightly say, 20+ Child-Forums, restricted to 2, would equal 40+ new threads whereas the hope was those 20+ Child-Forums would be restricted enmass to 2.

Okay, I will add a setting that lets you decide whether each restricted forum is restricted separately or all restricted forums are restricted as a group. :)

Using Forums, rather than Child-Forums; would that be an easier way to go about it? Those 20+ Children are over 3 Forums.

I initially felt that including child forums would make things easier. I will include a setting that allows you to decide whether child forums are included or not, to give you more precise control.

Look for this update to come within a couple of days. :)

[jagtpf]

Thank you Sir.

Not too sure how we'd be able to cope without your generous help.

[MarkFL]

Thank you Sir.


Not too sure how we'd be able to cope without your generous help.

Well, it's a two-way street...when people like you are willing to make suggestions for improvement, we all win. :up:

[MarkFL]

Update version 1.8:


Added setting to allow control over whether child forums are included in the slected restricted forums.
Added setting to allow all restricted forums to be treated as a group, or to be treated separately.

[jagtpf]

Update version 1.8:


Added setting to allow control over whether child forums are included in the slected restricted forums.
Added setting to allow all restricted forums to be treated as a group, or to be treated separately.


Thank you Mark - How much of the .zip file need to be uploaded? All or selected.... Stoopid question Geoff! Read the damn instructions :D

[Stratis]

Thanks for the update Mark.
I remind you for THIS (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showpost.php?p=2560841&postcount=32) if it has some good reason for other to, and its easy to make.

* Just to know, when a member put the link and the forum id at the end xxx, he can make a thread even he is restricted.

my forum/newthread.php?do=newthread&f=xxx :D

[MarkFL]

Thanks for the update Mark.
I remind you for THIS (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showpost.php?p=2560841&postcount=32) if it has some good reason for other to, and its easy to make.

* Just to know, when a member put the link and the forum id at the end xxx, he can make a thread even he is restricted.

my forum/newthread.php?do=newthread&f=xxx :D

You can change the phrases to say anything you want.

On my dev site, I still get the no permission page if I copy the url and attempt to circumvent the product. I didn't change that at all.

[Stratis]

You can change the phrases to say anything you want.
Yes I have changed the phrase. if they know to how many post they are restricted?
Many mod include this code in phrases {1} so:
"You are restricted from posting here, you have reached {1} posts that are permitted."

{1} is how many post admin has put in the mod.


On my dev site, I still get the no permission page if I copy the url and attempt to circumvent the product. I didn't change that at all.
This was in the previous version to. But its not a big deal, users don't bother or know to try this.

Any way, thanks for another time. :up:

[MarkFL]

Yes I have changed the phrase. if they know to how many post they are restricted?
Many mod include this code in phrases {1} so:
"You are restricted from posting here, you have reached {1} posts that are permitted."

{1} is how many post admin has put in the mod.



This was in the previous version to. But its not a big deal, users don't bother or know to try this.

Any way, thanks for another time. :up:

Couldn't you just include the number of posts in your phrase?

I have no idea why the circumvention feature continues to work flawlessly for me but does not work for you. :confused:

[Stratis]

Don't bother Mark :) I have put that number, some times we might change from admins panel
and forget to change the phrase, as I say its not a big deal, both of them to my previous post.

This mod helped a very lot to my community.
And I thing if you ever can make this to have an option to every Forum Category to have restrict individual number, it will be the best. "Different 'post limit' on different forums"

Forums & Moderators / Forum Manager / Forum

154082

Thanks :)

[MarkFL]

Don't bother Mark :) I have put that number, some times we might change from admins panel
and forget to change the phrase, as I say its not a big deal, both of them to my previous post.

This mod helped a very lot to my community.
And I thing if you ever can make this to have an option to every Forum Category to have restrict individual number, it will be the best. "Different 'post limit' on different forums"

Forums & Moderators / Forum Manager / Forum

154082

Thanks :)

Some users may not want to display the number of posts to which users are restricted, and so leaving the phrase as is gives greater flexibility.

[MarkFL]

Update - Version 1.9:


Added setting to allow for individually defined post limits for the restricted forums.

[jagtpf]

Strange one - someone managed to post 3 new threads in the same Forum (limit set at 2). Time stamp for all 3 is identical ... 07-02-2016 06:49 PM . Just wondering if that 'flood' could somehow bypass the time restriction which is set at 1440 mins.

Otherwise the product is doing its work...

[Alan_SP]

It looks double (in this case triple) posting bug.

I have that from time to time and also noted that having TapaTalk installed can affect it in negative way.

[jagtpf]

It looks double (in this case triple) posting bug.

I have that from time to time and also noted that having TapaTalk installed can affect it in negative way.


OK - I'll blame TapaTalk :D

[jagtpf]

Sadly an newbie who registered today was able to post 3 new threads within 12 minutes, in Forums under restriction.

2 were in the same Forum, with the 3rd in another.

Just to clarify if it might help capture any issues in the algorithm

3 main Forums, plus their children, classed as a group, limit 2 threads only, 1440 minutes.

[Stratis]

Any way for this issue, I have stopped tapatalk before 3 months. Many different problems stopped. Tapatalk does not support a lot of Mods i use, so it was the only-way for me.

Really happy to stop it.

[jagtpf]

Any way for this issue, I have stopped tapatalk before 3 months. Many different problems stopped. Tapatalk does not support a lot of Mods i use, so it was the only-way for me.

Really happy to stop it.

I'll be shot if I stopped tapatalk :rolleyes:

[MarkFL]

I have no way to test if Tapatalk users can get around the restrictions of this product or not.

[jagtpf]

I have no way to test if Tapatalk users can get around the restrictions of this product or not.

As long as it mostly works, that's OK.

Cheers Mark.

[jagtpf]

One member has managed to post 8, and doesn't use TapaTalk. There must be a setting I have made incorrectly?

[Alan_SP]

Just to mention what I observed with TapaTalk installed: It doesn't affect only TapaTalk users, it affects all users.

I'm not saying that this is the reason why your users can bypass restrictions you created, but just mention that when I used some versions of TapaTalk, I made double posts and I don't use TapaTalk at all.

[Stratis]

A little help if it can be done?

This is on top of the thread,
"You are restricted from posting in this thread."

When member clicks to read the thread, he goes to the last post, down the thread.
Actually he does not see buttons to answer but he does not realize why he cannot. (until he goes to the top, if he goes)

Is there a way how I can show this announcement in two places? up & down the thread.
or down instead up.

Thank you.

[MarkFL]

A little help if it can be done?

This is on top of the thread,
"You are restricted from posting in this thread."

When member clicks to read the thread, he goes to the last post, down the thread.
Actually he does not see buttons to answer but he does not realize why he cannot. (until he goes to the top, if he goes)

Is there a way how I can show this announcement in two places? up & down the thread.
or down instead up.

Thank you.

I will see what I can do about that tonight. :)

[Stratis]

When you have some spare time (I know you don't) :D
Just tell me how I can make it or what to change - insert, don't bother anything else.

Thank you.

[MarkFL]

When you have some spare time (I know you don't) :D
Just tell me how I can make it or what to change - insert, don't bother anything else.

Thank you.

Well, what I would do is look in the "SHOWTHREAD" template for a good template hook location to display the message. The existing message uses:

$template_hook['showthread_above_posts']

Now, when I look at the template, I find also:

{vb:raw template_hook.showthread_below_posts}

And so that's where I will first try displaying the message as well.

But, that's much lower on the page than I would like...the closest I can get with the default template hooks is here:

https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/attachment.php?attachmentid=154337&stc=1&d=1456781782

I have drawn an arrow indicating where I think it would be better place. So, I will have to write a plugin that puts a custom template hook where I need it to be (so we can avoid any pesky manual template edits). :)

[MarkFL]

Update - Version 1.9.5:


Restricted posting message on both the "forum display" and "show thread" pages now displayed both above and below threads/posts.

[Stratis]

Thank you for the update, very nice. Message is in the places as supposed to be.

[jagtpf]

A worthy change ! Thanks guys .

To try and 'solve' my multi-posters I've checked Forum & Children individually and Grouped, rather Forum and checking Admin>Child setting. May be working more reliably???

[MarkFL]

Update - Version 1.9.6:


Fixed bug where only last individual forum|restriction was recognized on some servers.

[Stratis]

Any hope to have an option, restrict and by threads ? :)

[MarkFL]

Any hope to have an option, restrict and by threads ? :)

Do you mean to restrict the number of posts a user can make in certain threads?

[Stratis]

Yes, like this

Individual Threads Post Limits
will set the thread whose threadid is 2 to a limit of 10 posts
2|10

:)

[KevinL]

Hello,

This has been a great mod. Thank you for releasing this!

Question, Is there any way that it could be expanded to included different prefixes?

We have a few forums and they are mixed with a few different prefixes. We would want to allow how ever many posts/threads to certain prefixes while others are only allowed a certain number of posts/threads. So like in the Individual Forum Post Limits it would be for prefixes:

PrefixA/1
PrefixB/0 - unlimited? Or if a prefix isn't mentioned it is not included?
PrefixC/5

Could this be possible?

Thank you again Mark!

[KevinL]

Was doing some testing on a site and had to uninstall this mod. The settings in the option menu were gone but it was still listed in the products menu. When I reinstalled it all the options were still there and the changed phrases were still the same before the uninstall. I don't think this is getting uninstalled correctly. Just wanted to let you know.

Thanks for the great mod!

[MarkFL]

Was doing some testing on a site and had to uninstall this mod. The settings in the option menu were gone but it was still listed in the products menu. When I reinstalled it all the options were still there and the changed phrases were still the same before the uninstall. I don't think this is getting uninstalled correctly. Just wanted to let you know.

Thanks for the great mod!

Did you actually uninstall it or just disable it instead? This product has no install/uninstall code so I don't see why there should be any issues when uninstalling. :)

[KevinL]

Did you actually uninstall it or just disable it instead? This product has no install/uninstall code so I don't see why there should be any issues when uninstalling. :)

Yeah I hit uninstall in the product page. When viewing the page the mod wasn't crossed out like when you disable a mod. It was strange.

[KevinL]

Getting this now when saving the settings of the mod:

PHP Warning: trim() expects parameter 1 to be string, array given in ..../includes/adminfunctions_options.php on line 1032

PHP Warning: trim() expects parameter 1 to be string, array given in ..../includes/adminfunctions_options.php on line 1032

[MarkFL]

There is no call to the PHP trim() function in this product's plugin hooked at "admin_options_processing."

[KevinL]

Very strange. It is the only place that error shows is when saving the settings of this mod..

[MarkFL]

I might have been hasty...the trim function giving the error must be in the "adminfunctions_options.php" script. However, when I save the settings for this product, which I tested after your post on it, I get no errors.

[Stratis]

Mark, lately I have changed my forum to https, do I must change in plugin "Prevent Product Circumvention (Creating New Post)" the code (http) to (https) ?

Thank you

[MarkFL]

Mark, lately I have changed my forum to https, do I must change in plugin "Prevent Product Circumvention (Creating New Post)" the code (http) to (https) ?


Thank you

No, the PHP variable $_SERVER['HTTP_REFERER'] should work either way. :)