What it means
A Private Maps list is viewable and editable only by its owner. A Shared list can be opened through a link, and the owner can invite collaborators to edit it. Anyone who can view may also see contributor names, profile pictures and notes. Hiding a list from your own map changes your display, not the permissions of an already shared list.
A real-world example
A traveler shares a list called 'Weekend stops' that also contains a note with their home address. A friend forwards the link to a group, widening the audience beyond the original trip partner.
What to do
Create a separate shareable list without sensitive entries, grant editing only where necessary, and test the link from a non-owner account. Review Sharing options after the event.
The distinction that matters
Turning off editor access does not necessarily end viewer access through the link. A recipient may already have copied places or notes. A list is not live-location sharing, but its names and order can still reveal routines. If a location belongs to someone else, do not publish their private address without permission. Choose a private original and a curated shared copy for recurring collaboration. Test the final viewer experience without owner privileges.
Google Maps list privacy
