Know the model
Privacy and anonymous participation
ChattyMaps avoids accounts, passwords, and participant email addresses. A server-created cookie identifies a browser as a poll creator or participant.
A session begins automatically
The server mints a random session identifier in an httpOnly cookie. Page scripts cannot read that cookie directly.
The browser proves continuity
Returning with the same cookie restores creator controls and the participant’s voting identity for that browser.
Nicknames identify people to the group
In social mode, participant nicknames and votes are visible. Use aggregate-only mode when individual choices should not be shown.
Links control practical access
Unlisted polls do not appear on Discover, but anyone with the URL can open them. There is no invite list or password.
Cookie loss is permanent
Clearing cookies or moving to another browser creates a different anonymous identity. ChattyMaps cannot currently recover the original one.