Yes, it uses a plug in.
Tapatalk hijacks all links posted via TapaTalk and I believe images and uses a url shortener of shorts so that when I view a pic you post with tapatalk or click a link you posted I end up getting one of their bullshit cookies and end up in their bullshit tracking system. The original developer is still with Tapatalk, he is a real dick head. He sold it and his soul to some investment firm that is now focused on monetizing it and generating cash. Part of my hatred is I bought the full version prior to him selling out, so I should be exempt from their shenanigans, but am not.
I love Tim to death, in a non-homo way, but If I owned this place I would get rid of that crap in a heartbeat.