This page covers what data the chat widget collects from visitors, how cookies and storage are used, and how to configure privacy controls.
What the Widget Collects
The Social Intents chat widget collects:
- Explicitly provided: Name, email, phone, and any custom fields the visitor fills out on the pre-chat form
- Automatically detected: Page URL, referrer URL, browser/user agent, IP address, approximate location (from IP)
- Chat content: All messages exchanged during the conversation
Cookie and Storage Usage
The Social Intents chat widget uses sessionStorage only (not persistent cookies) to maintain chat state during the visitor's browsing session. Session storage is automatically cleared when the browser tab is closed.
No persistent cookies are set by the chat widget. No third-party tracking cookies are used.
Consent Checkbox
Enable a consent checkbox on the pre-chat form to require explicit opt-in before chat begins. Configure this in My Widgets > your widget > Customize Text > enable Data Consent and enter your consent text.
See GDPR Compliance for details.
IP and Country Controls
Visitor Blocking
Block specific visitors from seeing the chat widget. Manage your block list in your widget's Targeting tab. Agents can also block a visitor instantly during a chat by typing /block.
Country Allow/Block Lists
On Pro plans and above, restrict the widget to specific countries (allow list) or hide it from specific countries (block list). Configure this in the Targeting tab.
Hide When Offline
When enabled, the widget is completely hidden from visitors during offline hours. No code runs, no storage is set, and no data is collected when the widget is hidden.
Best Practices
- Enable the consent checkbox if you operate in regions with consent requirements (EU, California, etc.)
- Link to your privacy policy in the consent text
- Only collect the pre-chat form fields you actually need
- Use the JavaScript SDK to pre-fill known visitor info rather than asking them to re-enter it
- Review and export or delete chat data regularly to align with your data retention policy