1. What applause means
Applause is a visitor’s expression of appreciation for a recognised public action. It is not a poll, rating of a person’s complete character, or substitute for factual review.
2. One applause per browser profile
A random identifier is stored in a first-party HttpOnly cookie for one year. The database allows one applause from that browser on each profile. Repeating the action does not add another.
This is a practical abuse control, not verified one-person-one-response. Clearing cookies, using private browsing, changing browsers, or using another device can create another identifier.
3. Ranking
The Community Honour feature ranks eligible profiles by valid applause totals. Ties may be resolved by recency or rotation. SpineCheck may apply minimum participation thresholds before presenting a result as meaningful.
4. Editorial independence
Applause cannot create or remove a recognition. Eligibility changes only after evidence review under the Methodology.
5. Manipulation
Automated activity, purchased engagement, coordinated evasion, scripted requests, cookie farming, or exploiting technical weaknesses is prohibited. Suspected artificial applause may be excluded, reversed, quarantined, or investigated without notice.
6. Privacy
The applause cookie is a random identifier and is not designed to contain your name or email. Records, timestamps, and basic security logs may be used to calculate totals and detect manipulation. See the Privacy Policy.
7. Changes and disputes
Applause may be paused for a profile during a correction, security incident, or manipulation review. Report an incorrect total through the website grievance channel.