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Pets Best Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

As of April 20, 2023

Table of Contents

  • Data Controller
  • Contact the Data Protection Officer
  • Overview of Processing Methods
  • Relevant legal basis
  • Safety measures
  • Transfer of personal data
  • Data processing in third countries
  • Deletion of Data
  • Use of Cookies
  • Business Services
  • Vendors and services used in the course of business operations
  • Provision of the online service and web hosting
  • Special Notes on Applications (Apps)
  • Blogs and Publications
  • Contact and Inquiry Management
  • Communication via Messenger
  • Push notifications
  • Video conferences, online meetings, webinars, and screen sharing
  • Newsletters and electronic notifications
  • Marketing communications via email, mail, fax, or telephone
  • Giveaways and Contests
  • Surveys and questionnaires
  • Web Analytics, Monitoring, and Optimization
  • Online Marketing
  • Social media presence
  • Plugins, embedded functions, and content
  • Management, Organization, and Support Tools
  • Changes and Updates to the Privacy Policy
  • Rights of data subjects
  • Definitions of Terms

Data Controller

Pets Best GmbH Lahrweg 34 58706 Menden Germany Authorized Representatives: Michael Pahl & Philipp Pahl Email Address: info@pets-best.de Legal Notice: https://pets-best.de/impressum/

Contact the Data Protection Officer

info@pets-best.de

Overview of Processing Methods

The following overview summarizes the types of data processed and the purposes of such processing, and identifies the data subjects.

Types of data processed

  • Inventory data.
  • Payment information.
  • Location data.
  • Contact information.
  • Table of Contents.
  • Contract details.
  • Usage data.
  • Meta data, communication data, and procedural data.
  • Event details (Facebook).

Special categories of data

  • Health data.

Categories of data subjects

  • Customers.
  • Employees.
  • Prospective buyers.
  • Communication partner.
  • Users.
  • Participants in sweepstakes and contests.
  • Members.
  • Business and contractual partners.
  • Participants.
  • People pictured.

Purposes of processing

  • Provision of contractual services and customer service.
  • Contact requests and communication.
  • Safety measures.
  • Direct marketing.
  • Audience measurement.
  • Tracking.
  • Office and organizational procedures.
  • Conversion tracking.
  • Target audience identification.
  • Managing and responding to inquiries.
  • Organizing sweepstakes and contests.
  • Feedback.
  • Marketing.
  • Profiles containing user-specific information.
  • Provision of our online services and user-friendliness.
  • Information technology infrastructure.

Relevant legal basis

Below is an overview of the legal bases under the GDPR on which we process personal data. Please note that, in addition to the provisions of the GDPR, national data protection regulations may apply in your country of residence or our country of incorporation. If more specific legal bases apply in individual cases, we will inform you of these in the Privacy Policy.
  • Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) of the GDPR) – The data subject has given consent to the processing of personal data concerning him or her for a specific purpose or for several specific purposes.
  • Performance of a contract and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) of the GDPR) – Processing is necessary for the performance of a contract to which the data subject is a party or for the implementation of pre-contractual measures taken at the data subject’s request.
  • Legal obligation (Art. 6(1)(c) of the GDPR) – Processing is necessary for compliance with a legal obligation to which the controller is subject.
  • Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR) – Processing is necessary for the purposes of the legitimate interests pursued by the controller or by a third party, except where such interests are overridden by the interests or fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subject which require protection of personal data.
In addition to the data protection provisions of the GDPR, national data protection regulations apply in Germany. These include, in particular, the Act on the Protection against the Misuse of Personal Data in Data Processing (Federal Data Protection Act – BDSG). The BDSG contains, in particular, special provisions regarding the right of access, the right to erasure, the right to object, the processing of special categories of personal data, processing for other purposes, and the transfer of data, as well as automated decision-making in individual cases, including profiling. Furthermore, it regulates data processing for the purposes of the employment relationship (Section 26 BDSG), particularly with regard to the establishment, performance, or termination of employment relationships, as well as the consent of employees. In addition, state data protection laws of the individual federal states may apply.

Safety measures

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures in accordance with legal requirements, taking into account the state of the art, the costs of implementation, and the nature, scope, context, and purposes of the processing, as well as the varying likelihood and severity of the risks to the rights and freedoms of natural persons, in order to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk. These measures include, in particular, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data by controlling physical and electronic access to the data, as well as access to, input of, and disclosure of the data, ensuring its availability, and maintaining its separation. Furthermore, we have established procedures that ensure the exercise of data subjects’ rights, the erasure of data, and responses to data breaches. Furthermore, we take the protection of personal data into account from the very beginning of the development or selection of hardware, software, and procedures in accordance with the principle of data protection by design and by default. TLS Encryption (https): To protect the data you transmit via our online services, we use TLS encryption. You can recognize such encrypted connections by the prefix https:// in your browser’s address bar.

Transfer of personal data

In the course of our processing of personal data, it may occur that the data is transferred to or disclosed to other entities, companies, legally independent organizational units, or individuals. Recipients of this data may include, for example, service providers entrusted with IT tasks or providers of services and content integrated into a website. In such cases, we comply with legal requirements and, in particular, enter into appropriate contracts or agreements with the recipients of your data to ensure the protection of your data. Data transfer within the corporate group: We may transfer personal data to other companies within our corporate group or grant them access to this data. If this transfer is for administrative purposes, it is based on our legitimate business and operational interests, or it occurs if necessary to fulfill our contractual obligations, or if consent from the data subjects or a legal authorization is available.

Data processing in third countries

If we process data in a third country (i.e., outside the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA)), or if processing takes place in connection with the use of third-party services or the disclosure or transfer of data to other individuals, entities, or companies, this is done only in accordance with legal requirements. Subject to express consent or a transfer required by contract or law, we process data or have it processed in third countries only if they have a recognized level of data protection, contractual obligations through so-called standard data protection clauses of the European Commission, the existence of certifications, or binding internal data protection regulations (Art. 44–49 GDPR, EU Commission information page: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/law-topic/data-protection/international-dimension-data-protection_de).

Deletion of Data

The data we process is deleted in accordance with legal requirements as soon as the consent authorizing its processing is revoked or other legal grounds for processing no longer apply (e.g., if the purpose for which the data was processed no longer exists or the data is no longer necessary for that purpose). If the data is not deleted because it is required for other legally permissible purposes, its processing is limited to those purposes. This means that the data will be blocked and not processed for other purposes. This applies, for example, to data that must be retained for commercial or tax law reasons, or whose storage is necessary to assert, exercise, or defend legal claims, or to protect the rights of another natural or legal person. Our privacy policy may also contain further information regarding the retention and deletion of data, which takes precedence for the respective processing activities.

Use of Cookies

Cookies are small text files or other storage mechanisms that store information on end devices and retrieve information from them. For example, to save the login status in a user account, the contents of a shopping cart in an e-shop, the content accessed, or the functions used on a website. Cookies can also be used for various purposes, such as ensuring the functionality, security, and convenience of websites, as well as for analyzing visitor traffic. Information regarding consent: We use cookies in accordance with legal requirements. Therefore, we obtain prior consent from users unless such consent is not required by law. In particular, consent is not required if the storage and retrieval of information—including cookies—are strictly necessary to provide users with a telemedia service (i.e., our online offering) that they have expressly requested. Strictly necessary cookies generally include cookies with functions that serve the display and operability of the online service, load balancing, security, the storage of user preferences and selections, or similar purposes related to the provision of the main and secondary functions of the online service requested by users. The revocable consent is clearly communicated to users and includes information regarding the respective use of cookies. Information on the legal basis for data protection: The legal basis under data protection law on which we process users’ personal data using cookies depends on whether we ask users for their consent. If users consent, the legal basis for the processing of their data is their expressed consent. Otherwise, the data processed using cookies is processed on the basis of our legitimate interests (e.g., in the business operation of our online offering and improving its usability) or, if this occurs within the scope of fulfilling our contractual obligations, when the use of cookies is necessary to fulfill our contractual obligations. We explain the purposes for which we process cookies in this Privacy Policy or as part of our consent and processing procedures. Retention period: With regard to storage duration, the following types of cookies are distinguished:
  • Temporary cookies (also known as session cookies):Temporary cookies are deleted at the latest after a user leaves a website and closes their device (e.g., browser or mobile app).
  • Persistent cookies: Persistent cookies remain stored even after the device is turned off. This allows, for example, the login status to be saved or preferred content to be displayed immediately when the user visits a website again. Likewise, user data collected via cookies may be used for audience measurement. Unless we provide users with explicit information regarding the type and storage duration of cookies (e.g., when obtaining consent), users should assume that cookies are persistent and may be stored for up to two years.
General Information on Withdrawal and Opt-Out: Users may withdraw their consent at any time and may also object to the processing of their data in accordance with the legal requirements set forth in Article 21 of the GDPR. Users may also express their objection through their browser settings, e.g., by disabling the use of cookies (although this may also limit the functionality of our online services). An objection to the use of cookies for online marketing purposes can also be made via the websites https://optout.aboutads.info and https://www.youronlinechoices.com/ explained.
  • Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times).
  • Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: To provide our online services and ensure user-friendliness.
  • Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) of the GDPR); Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Processing of cookie data based on consent: We use a cookie consent management system through which users can grant, manage, and revoke their consent to the use of cookies, as well as to the processing activities and providers specified within the cookie consent management system. In this context, the declaration of consent is stored so that the request does not have to be repeated and to be able to provide proof of consent in accordance with legal obligations. Storage may occur on the server side and/or in a cookie (so-called opt-in cookie, or using comparable technologies) to be able to associate the consent with a user or their device. Subject to specific information provided by cookie management service providers, the following applies: The duration of consent storage may be up to two years. In this process, a pseudonymous user identifier is generated and stored along with the time of consent, details regarding the scope of consent (e.g., which categories of cookies and/or service providers), as well as the browser, operating system, and device used; Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR).
  • Cookie Opt-Out: In the footer of our website, you will find a link that allows you to change your cookie settings and withdraw your consent; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).

Business Services

We process data from our contractual and business partners, such as customers and prospective customers (collectively referred to as “contractual partners”), in the context of contractual and similar legal relationships, as well as related measures and communications with contractual partners (or in the pre-contractual phase), for example, to respond to inquiries. We process this data to fulfill our contractual obligations. These include, in particular, the obligations to provide the agreed-upon services, any update obligations, and remedies for warranty claims and other service disruptions. In addition, we process the data to safeguard our rights and for the purposes of administrative tasks associated with these obligations, as well as for corporate organization. Furthermore, we process the data based on our legitimate interests in proper and sound business management, as well as in security measures to protect our contractual partners and our business operations from misuse, compromise of their data, secrets, information, and rights (e.g., involving telecommunications, transportation, and other support services, as well as subcontractors, banks, tax and legal advisors, payment service providers, or tax authorities). Within the scope of applicable law, we disclose the data of contractual partners to third parties only to the extent necessary for the aforementioned purposes or to fulfill legal obligations. Contractual partners are informed about other forms of processing, e.g., for marketing purposes, within the scope of this Privacy Policy. We inform contractual partners of which data is required for the aforementioned purposes prior to or during data collection, e.g., in online forms, through special markings (e.g., colors) or symbols (e.g., asterisks or similar), or in person. We delete the data after the expiration of statutory warranty and comparable obligations, i.e., generally after 4 years, unless the data is stored in a customer account, e.g., as long as it must be retained for legal archiving purposes. The statutory retention period is ten years for tax-relevant documents as well as for ledgers, inventories, opening balance sheets, annual financial statements, the work instructions necessary for understanding these documents, and other organizational documents and accounting vouchers; and six years for received commercial and business letters and copies of sent commercial and business letters. The period begins at the end of the calendar year in which the last entry was made in the book, the inventory, the opening balance sheet, the annual financial statements, or the management report was prepared, the commercial or business letter was received or sent, or the accounting document was created, or the record was made, or the other documents were created. To the extent that we use third-party providers or platforms to provide our services, the terms and conditions and privacy policies of the respective third-party providers or platforms apply to the relationship between users and providers.
  • Types of data processed: Master data (e.g., names, addresses); payment data (e.g., bank details, invoices, payment history); contact data (e.g., email, phone numbers); contract data (e.g., subject matter of the contract, term, customer category); usage data (e.g., websites visited, interest in content, access times); meta, communication, and process data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Data subjects: Customers; prospective customers; business and contractual partners.
  • Purposes of processing: Provision of contractual services and customer service; security measures; contact requests and communication; office and organizational procedures; management and response to inquiries.
  • Legal basis: Performance of a contract and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) of the GDPR); Legal obligation (Art. 6(1)(c) of the GDPR); Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Customer Account: Contracting parties may create an account within our online platform (e.g., a customer or user account, hereinafter “customer account”). If registration of a customer account is required, contracting parties will be notified of this requirement as well as of the information needed for registration. Customer accounts are not public and cannot be indexed by search engines. As part of the registration process, as well as subsequent logins and use of the customer account, we store customers’ IP addresses along with the times of access in order to verify the registration and prevent any misuse of the customer account. If customers have closed their customer account, the data relating to the customer account will be deleted, unless retention is required for legal reasons. It is the customer’s responsibility to back up their data upon cancellation of the customer account; legal basis: performance of a contract and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR).
  • Wish List: Customers can create a product/wish list. In this case, the products are stored as part of the fulfillment of our contractual obligations until the account is deleted, unless the product list entries are removed by the customer or we expressly inform the customer of different retention periods; Legal basis: Contract fulfillment and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR).
  • Customer Loyalty Program/Loyalty Card: We process customer data as part of our customer loyalty program for the purpose of providing the services offered to participating customers under the program. For this purpose, the information collected from customers—and, where necessary, identified as such—is stored in a customer profile. The profile also contains information regarding the use of the customer loyalty program as well as the utilization of the associated services and benefits, and is shared with third parties (e.g., service providers) only if necessary for the aforementioned purposes. Customer profiles are deleted upon termination of participation and archived with the respective data only to the extent necessary for statutory retention purposes or the fulfillment of legal (up to 11 years for tax-related information from the end of the year in which it was generated) or contractual claims (up to three years from the end of the year of termination); Legal basis: Contract performance and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR).
  • Shop and E-Commerce: We process our customers’ data to enable them to select, purchase, or order the products, goods, and related services of their choice, as well as to facilitate payment and delivery or fulfillment. Where necessary to fulfill an order, we engage service providers—in particular postal, freight, and shipping companies—to carry out delivery or fulfillment for our customers. We use the services of banks and payment service providers to process payment transactions. The required information is identified as such during the ordering or comparable purchase process and includes the details necessary for delivery, provision, and billing, as well as contact information to facilitate any necessary communication; Legal basis: Contract performance and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR).

Vendors and services used in the course of business operations

As part of our business operations, we use additional third-party services, platforms, interfaces, or plug-ins (hereinafter “Services”) in compliance with legal requirements. Our use of these Services is based on our interest in the proper, lawful, and efficient management of our business operations and internal organization.
  • Types of data processed: Personal information (e.g., names, addresses); payment information (e.g., bank details, invoices, payment history); contact information (e.g., email addresses, phone numbers); content data (e.g., information entered in online forms); contract information (e.g., subject matter of the contract, term, customer category).
  • Data subjects: Customers; prospective customers; users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services); business and contractual partners; members; employees (e.g., staff members, job applicants, former employees).
  • Purposes of processing: Provision of contractual services and customer service; administrative and organizational procedures.
  • Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:

Provision of the online service and web hosting

We process users' data in order to provide them with our online services. To this end, we process the user's IP address, which is necessary to deliver the content and features of our online services to the user's browser or device.
  • Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times); metadata, communication data, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status); content data (e.g., entries in online forms).
  • Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Provision of our online services and user-friendliness; IT infrastructure (operation and provision of information systems and technical equipment (computers, servers, etc.)); security measures.
  • Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Hosting of our online services on rented server space: To host our online services, we use server space, computing capacity, and software that we rent or otherwise obtain from a server provider (also known as a “web host”); Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
  • Collection of access data and log files: Access to our website is logged in the form of so-called “server log files.” Server log files may include the address and name of the accessed web pages and files, the date and time of access, the amount of data transferred, a notification of successful access, browser type and version, the user’s operating system, referrer URL (the previously visited page), and, as a rule, IP addresses and the requesting provider.The server log files may be used, on the one hand, for security purposes, e.g., to prevent server overload (particularly in the event of malicious attacks, so-called DDoS attacks), and, on the other hand, to ensure server capacity and stability; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Data deletion: Log file information is stored for a maximum of 30 days and then deleted or anonymized. Data that must be retained for evidentiary purposes is exempt from deletion until the respective incident has been fully resolved.
  • Email Sending and Hosting: The web hosting services we use also include the sending, receiving, and storage of emails. For these purposes, we process the addresses of the recipients and senders, as well as other information related to email transmission (e.g., the providers involved) and the content of the respective emails. The aforementioned data may also be processed for the purpose of detecting SPAM. Please note that emails are generally not sent in encrypted form over the internet. While emails are typically encrypted during transmission, they are not encrypted on the servers from which they are sent and received (unless a so-called end-to-end encryption method is used). We therefore cannot assume any responsibility for the transmission of emails between the sender and receipt on our server; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).
  • Hetzner: Services in the field of providing IT infrastructure and related services (e.g., storage space and/or computing capacity); Service Provider: Hetzner Online GmbH, Industriestr. 25, 91710 Gunzenhausen, Germany; Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.hetzner.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.hetzner.com/de/rechtliches/datenschutz; Data Processing Agreement: https://docs.hetzner.com/de/general/general-terms-and-conditions/data-privacy-faq/.
  • WordPress.com: Hosting and software for the creation, deployment, and operation of websites, blogs, and other online services; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Data Processing Agreement: https://wordpress.com/support/data-processing-agreements/; Service Provider: Aut O’Mattic A8C Ireland Ltd., Grand Canal Dock, 25 Herbert Pl, Dublin, D02 AY86, Ireland; Website: https://wordpress.com; Privacy Policy: https://automattic.com/de/privacy/.

Special Notes on Applications (Apps)

We process the data of our app’s users to the extent necessary to provide them with the app and its features, monitor its security, and further develop it. We may also contact users in accordance with legal requirements, provided that such communication is necessary for the administration or use of the application. For further information regarding the processing of user data, please refer to the privacy notice in this privacy policy. Legal basis: The processing of data necessary to provide the application’s functionalities serves to fulfill contractual obligations. This also applies if the provision of these functions requires user authorization (e.g., enabling device features). If the processing of data is not necessary for the provision of the application’s functionalities but serves the security of the application or our business interests (e.g., collection of data for the purpose of optimizing the application or for security purposes), it is carried out on the basis of our legitimate interests. If users are expressly asked for their consent to the processing of their data, the processing of the data covered by the consent is based on that consent.
  • Types of data processed: Personal data (e.g., names, addresses); metadata, communication data, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Purposes of processing: Provision of contractual services and customer service.
  • Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) of the GDPR); performance of a contract and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) of the GDPR); legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Device permissions for accessing features and data: Using our application or its features may require users to grant permissions to access certain features of the devices being used, or to access data stored on those devices or accessible via them. By default, these permissions must be granted by users and can be revoked at any time in the settings of the respective devices. The exact procedure for managing app permissions may vary depending on the device and the user’s software. Users may contact us if they require further clarification. Please note that denying or revoking these permissions may affect the functionality of our application.

Blogs and Publications

We use blogs or similar online communication and publication platforms (hereinafter referred to as “publication platforms”). Reader data is processed for the purposes of the publication platform only to the extent necessary for its operation and for communication between authors and readers, or for security reasons. For further information regarding the processing of data pertaining to visitors to our publication platform, please refer to this Privacy Policy.
  • Types of data processed: Personal data (e.g., names, addresses); Contact data (e.g., email, phone numbers); Content data (e.g., entries in online forms); Usage data (e.g., websites visited, interest in content, access times); Meta, communication, and process data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Providing contractual services and customer service; feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via an online form); providing our online services and ensuring user-friendliness; security measures; managing and responding to inquiries.
  • Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Comments and Posts: When users leave comments or other posts, their IP addresses may be stored based on our legitimate interests. This is done for our security in case someone posts illegal content in comments or posts (insults, prohibited political propaganda, etc.). In such cases, we could be held liable for the comment or post and are therefore interested in the author’s identity. Furthermore, we reserve the right to process user data for the purpose of spam detection based on our legitimate interests. On the same legal basis, we reserve the right to store users’ IP addresses for the duration of surveys and to use cookies to prevent multiple votes.The personal information provided in the context of comments and posts, any contact and website information, as well as the content details, are stored by us permanently until the user objects; legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).

Contact and Inquiry Management

When you contact us (e.g., by mail, contact form, email, phone, or social media), as well as in the context of existing user and business relationships, we process the information provided by the individuals making the inquiry to the extent necessary to respond to their inquiries and take any requested actions.
  • Types of data processed: Contact information (e.g., email addresses, phone numbers); content data (e.g., information entered in online forms); usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times); meta, communication, and process data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Affected individuals: Communication partners.
  • Purposes of processing: Contact requests and communication; managing and responding to inquiries; feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via an online form); providing our online services and ensuring user-friendliness.
  • Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR); performance of a contract and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Contact Form: When users contact us via our contact form, email, or other communication channels, we process the data provided to us in this context in order to address the matter raised; Legal basis: Performance of a contract and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR), Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).

Communication via Messenger

We use messaging apps for communication purposes and therefore ask that you review the following information regarding the functionality of these apps, encryption, the use of communication metadata, and your options for objecting. You can also contact us through alternative channels, such as by phone or email. Please use the contact information provided to you or the contact options listed on our website. In the case of end-to-end encryption of content (i.e., the content of your message and attachments), we would like to point out that the communication content (i.e., the content of the message and attached images) is encrypted from end to end. This means that the content of the messages cannot be viewed, not even by the messenger providers themselves. You should always use an up-to-date version of the messenger with encryption enabled to ensure that the message content is encrypted. However, we also inform our communication partners that while the messenger providers cannot view the content, they can determine whether and when communication partners are communicating with us, as well as process technical information about the communication partners’ devices and, depending on their device settings, location information (so-called metadata). Notes on the legal basis:  If we ask communication partners for permission before communicating with them via Messenger, the legal basis for our processing of their data is their consent. Furthermore, if we do not ask for consent and you, for example, contact us on your own initiative, we use Messenger in our relationship with our contractual partners and in the context of contract initiation as a contractual measure, and in the case of other interested parties and communication partners, based on our legitimate interests in fast and efficient communication and in meeting our communication partners’ needs for communication via Messenger. Furthermore, we would like to point out that we do not initially transmit the contact data provided to us to the messaging services without your consent. Revocation, Objection, and Deletion: You may withdraw your consent at any time and opt out of communicating with us via Messenger at any time. In the case of communication via Messenger, we will delete the messages in accordance with our general deletion policy (i.e., e.g., as described above, upon termination of contractual relationships, in the context of archiving requirements, etc.) and otherwise as soon as we can assume that we have answered any inquiries from the communication partner, provided that no reference back to a previous conversation is expected and no legal retention obligations preclude deletion. Disclaimer regarding references to other communication channels: Finally, we would like to point out that, for your security, we reserve the right not to respond to inquiries sent via Messenger. This applies, for example, when contractual details require special confidentiality or when a response via Messenger does not meet formal requirements. In such cases, we will direct you to more appropriate channels of communication.
  • Types of data processed: Contact information (e.g., email addresses, phone numbers); usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times); metadata, communication data, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status); content data (e.g., entries in online forms).
  • Affected individuals: Communication partners.
  • Purposes of processing: Contact requests and communication; direct marketing (e.g., via email or mail).
  • Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) of the GDPR); Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:

Push notifications

With users’ consent, we can send them so-called “push notifications.” These are messages that appear on users’ screens, devices, or browsers, even when our online service is not currently in use. To subscribe to push notifications, users must confirm the prompt from their browser or device to receive push notifications. This consent process is documented and stored. Storage is necessary to determine whether users have consented to receiving push notifications and to be able to provide proof of consent. For these purposes, a pseudonymous browser identifier (a so-called “push token”) or the device ID of an end device is stored. Push notifications may be necessary for the fulfillment of contractual obligations (e.g., technical and organizational information relevant to the use of our online service) and are otherwise sent, unless specifically stated below, based on the user’s consent. Users can change their settings for receiving push notifications at any time using the notification settings of their respective browsers or devices.
  • Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times); metadata, communication data, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Affected individuals: Communication partners.
  • Purposes of processing: Providing our online services and ensuring user-friendliness; measuring reach (e.g., traffic statistics, identifying returning visitors); direct marketing (e.g., via email or mail).
  • Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) of the GDPR); performance of a contract and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Push notifications with promotional content: The push notifications we send may contain promotional information. Promotional push notifications are processed based on the user’s consent. If the content of the promotional push notifications is specifically described as part of the consent to receive them, those descriptions are decisive for the user’s consent. In addition, our newsletters contain information about our services and our company; legal basis: consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR).
  • Analysis and Performance Measurement: We analyze push notifications statistically to determine whether and when they were displayed and clicked. This information is used to improve our push notifications based on technical data, target audiences, their viewing behavior, and viewing times. This analysis also includes determining whether the push notifications are opened, when they are opened, and whether users interact with their content or buttons. While this information can be attributed to individual push notification recipients for technical reasons, it is neither our intention nor, if used, that of the push notification service provider to monitor individual users. Rather, the evaluations serve to help us identify our users’ usage habits and tailor our push notifications to them, or to send different push notifications based on our users’ interests. The evaluation of push notifications and performance measurement are based on the users’ explicit consent, which is given when they agree to receive push notifications. Users may object to the analysis and performance measurement by unsubscribing from push notifications. Unfortunately, it is not possible to revoke consent for the analysis and performance measurement separately; Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR).

Video conferences, online meetings, webinars, and screen sharing

We use third-party platforms and applications (hereinafter referred to as “conference platforms”) for the purpose of conducting video and audio conferences, webinars, and other types of video and audio meetings (hereinafter collectively referred to as “conferences”). When selecting conference platforms and their services, we comply with all applicable legal requirements. Data processed by conference platforms: When participants join a conference, the conference platforms process the personal data listed below. The scope of this processing depends, on the one hand, on what data is required for a specific conference (e.g., login credentials or real names) and, on the other hand, on what optional information participants provide. In addition to processing for the purpose of conducting the conference, participants’ data may also be processed by the conference platforms for security purposes or to optimize services. The data processed includes personal information (first name, last name), contact information (email address, phone number), login credentials (access codes or passwords), profile pictures, details regarding professional position/role, the IP address of the internet connection, details regarding participants’ devices, their operating system, browser, and its technical and language settings, information regarding the content of communication processes—i.e., chat entries as well as audio and video data—and the use of other available functions (e.g., polls). Communication content is encrypted to the extent technically provided by the conference providers. If participants are registered as users on the conference platforms, additional data may be processed in accordance with the agreement with the respective conference provider. Recording and documentation: If text entries, participation results (e.g., from surveys), or video or audio recordings are logged, participants will be clearly informed of this in advance and, where necessary, asked for their consent. Participants' data protection measures: Please refer to the privacy policies of the conference platforms for details on how your data is processed, and select the security and privacy settings that best suit your needs within the platform’s settings. Please also ensure data and privacy protection in the background of your recording for the duration of a video conference (e.g., by informing roommates, locking doors, and, where technically possible, using the background blurring feature). Links to the conference rooms and access credentials must not be shared with unauthorized third parties. Notes on the legal basis: If, in addition to the conference platforms, we also process user data and ask users for their consent to the use of the conference platforms or certain features (e.g., consent to the recording of conferences), the legal basis for the processing is this consent. Furthermore, our processing may be necessary to fulfill our contractual obligations (e.g., in participant lists, in the case of summarizing meeting outcomes, etc.). In addition, user data is processed based on our legitimate interests in efficient and secure communication with our communication partners.
  • Types of data processed: Personal data (e.g., names, addresses); Contact data (e.g., email, phone numbers); Content data (e.g., entries in online forms); Usage data (e.g., websites visited, interest in content, access times); Meta, communication, and process data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Data subjects: Communication partners; users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services); individuals depicted in images.
  • Purposes of processing: Provision of contractual services and customer service; contact requests and communication; administrative and organizational procedures.
  • Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:

Newsletters and electronic notifications

We send newsletters, emails, and other electronic notifications (hereinafter “newsletters”) only with the recipient’s consent or when permitted by law. If the content of a newsletter is specifically described during the sign-up process, that description is decisive for the user’s consent. In addition, our newsletters contain information about our services and our company. To subscribe to our newsletters, it is generally sufficient to provide your email address. However, we may ask you to provide a name, for the purpose of addressing you personally in the newsletter, or additional information, if such information is necessary for the purposes of the newsletter. Double opt-in process: Subscription to our newsletter is always handled via a double opt-in process. This means that after you subscribe, you will receive an email asking you to confirm your subscription. This confirmation is necessary to ensure that no one can subscribe using someone else’s email address. Newsletter subscriptions are logged to provide proof of the registration process in accordance with legal requirements. This includes storing the time of registration and confirmation, as well as the IP address. Changes to your data stored with the mailing service provider are also logged. Erasure and restriction of processing:  We may store unsubscribed email addresses for up to three years based on our legitimate interests before deleting them, in order to be able to prove that consent was previously given. The processing of this data is limited to the purpose of potentially defending against claims. An individual request for deletion is possible at any time, provided that the prior existence of consent is confirmed at the same time. In the event of obligations to permanently honor objections, we reserve the right to store the email address solely for this purpose in a blocklist. The logging of the registration process is based on our legitimate interests for the purpose of verifying its proper execution. To the extent that we engage a service provider to send emails, this is based on our legitimate interests in an efficient and secure delivery system. Contents: Information about us, our services, promotions, and special offers.
  • Types of data processed: Personal information (e.g., names, addresses); contact information (e.g., email addresses, phone numbers); metadata, communication, and transaction data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status); usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times).
  • Special categories of personal data: Health data (Art. 9(1) of the GDPR).
  • Affected individuals: Communication partners.
  • Purposes of processing: Direct marketing (e.g., via email or mail).
  • Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) of the GDPR); Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
  • Opt-out option: You can unsubscribe from our newsletter at any time, i.e., withdraw your consent or opt out of receiving further issues. You will find a link to unsubscribe from the newsletter at the bottom of each issue, or you can use any of the contact options listed above—preferably email—to do so.
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Measuring open and click-through rates: The newsletters contain a so-called “web beacon,” i.e., a pixel-sized file that is retrieved from our server—or, if we use a mailing service provider, from their server—when the newsletter is opened. As part of this retrieval, technical information—such as details about your browser and system—as well as your IP address and the time of retrieval are initially collected. This information is used to technically improve our newsletter based on the technical data or the target groups and their reading behavior, determined by their access locations (which can be identified using the IP address) or access times. This analysis also includes determining whether the newsletters are opened, when they are opened, and which links are clicked. This information is assigned to individual newsletter recipients and stored in their profiles until they are deleted. The analyses help us identify our users’ reading habits and tailor our content to them, or send different content based on our users’ interests. The measurement of open rates and click-through rates, as well as the storage of measurement results in user profiles and their further processing, are based on the users’ consent. Unfortunately, it is not possible to revoke consent for performance measurement separately; in this case, the entire newsletter subscription must be canceled or opted out of. In this case, the stored profile information will be deleted; Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR).
  • Mailchimp: Email delivery and email marketing platform; Service provider: Rocket Science Group, LLC, 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE #5000, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://mailchimp.com; Privacy policy: https://mailchimp.com/legal/; Data processing agreement: https://mailchimp.com/legal/; Standard Contractual Clauses (ensuring an adequate level of data protection for processing in third countries): Included in the Data Processing Agreement; Further information: Specific security measures: https://mailchimp.com/help/Mailchimp-european-data-transfers/.
  • Rapidmail: Email marketing platform ; Service provider: rapidmail GmbH, Augustinerplatz 2, 79098 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.rapidmail.de; Privacy Policy: https://www.rapidmail.de/datenschutz; Data Processing Agreement: https://www.rapidmail.de/hilfe/datenschutzvertrag-nach-eu-dsgvo-abschliessen.

Marketing communications via email, mail, fax, or telephone

We process personal data for the purpose of sending promotional communications, which may be sent via various channels, such as email, telephone, mail, or fax, in accordance with legal requirements. Recipients have the right to revoke their consent at any time or to object to promotional communications at any time. Following revocation or objection, we store the data necessary to prove prior authorization for contacting or sending communications for up to three years after the end of the year in which the revocation or objection occurred, based on our legitimate interests. The processing of this data is limited to the purpose of potentially defending against claims. Based on the legitimate interest in permanently honoring the user’s revocation or objection, we also store the data necessary to prevent further contact (e.g., depending on the communication channel, the email address, phone number, or name).
  • Types of data processed: Personal information (e.g., names, addresses); contact information (e.g., email addresses, phone numbers); usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times); metadata, communication data, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Affected individuals: Communication partners.
  • Purposes of processing: Direct marketing (e.g., via email or mail); contact requests and communication.
  • Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) of the GDPR); Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:

Giveaways and Contests

We process the personal data of participants in sweepstakes and contests only in compliance with applicable data protection regulations, provided that such processing is contractually required for the provision, conducting, and administering the sweepstakes, the participants have consented to the processing, or the processing serves our legitimate interests (e.g., in the security of the sweepstakes or the protection of our interests against misuse through the possible collection of IP addresses when submitting sweepstakes entries). If participants’ entries are published in connection with the sweepstakes (e.g., as part of a vote or presentation of the entries or winners, or in reporting on the sweepstakes), we note that the participants’ names may also be published in this context. Participants may object to this at any time. If the contest takes place on an online platform or social network (e.g., Facebook or Instagram, hereinafter referred to as “online platform”), the terms of use and privacy policies of the respective platforms also apply. In such cases, we note that we are responsible for the information provided by participants in connection with the contest, and inquiries regarding the contest should be directed to us. Participants’ data will be deleted as soon as the sweepstakes or contest has ended and the data is no longer required to notify the winners or because inquiries regarding the sweepstakes are expected. In principle, participants’ data will be deleted no later than 6 months after the end of the sweepstakes. Winners’ data may be retained for a longer period, for example, to answer inquiries regarding the prizes or to fulfill the prize obligations; in this case, the retention period depends on the type of prize and may be up to three years for goods or services, for example, to handle warranty claims. Furthermore, participants’ data may be stored for a longer period, e.g., in the form of coverage of the contest in online and offline media. If data was also collected for other purposes as part of the contest, its processing and retention period are governed by the privacy policy applicable to that use (e.g., in the case of subscribing to a newsletter as part of a contest).
  • Types of data processed: Personal data (e.g., names, addresses); content data (e.g., entries in online forms); metadata, communication data, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status); contact data (e.g., email, phone numbers); usage data (e.g., websites visited, interest in content, access times).
  • Data subjects: Participants in sweepstakes and contests; communication partners; users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Conducting sweepstakes and contests; contact requests and communication; direct marketing (e.g., via email or mail); profiles containing user-related information (creation of user profiles).
  • Legal basis: Performance of a contract and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) of the GDPR); Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:

Surveys and questionnaires

We conduct surveys and questionnaires to collect information for the specific purpose stated in each survey or questionnaire. The surveys and questionnaires we conduct (hereinafter “surveys”) are evaluated anonymously. Personal data is processed only to the extent necessary for the provision and technical implementation of the surveys (e.g., processing the IP address to display the survey in the user’s browser or using a cookie to enable the user to resume the survey).
  • Types of data processed: Contact information (e.g., email addresses, phone numbers); content data (e.g., information entered in online forms); usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times); meta, communication, and process data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Data subjects: Communication partners; participants; users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via an online form); marketing; profiles containing user-related information (creating user profiles).
  • Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • TikTok: Social network / video platform; Service provider: TikTok Technology Limited, 10 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin, D02 T380, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.tiktok.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.tiktok.com/de/privacy-policy.
  • Instagram: Social network; Service provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.instagram.com; Privacy Policy: https://instagram.com/about/legal/privacy.
  • Instagram Plugins and Content: Instagram Plugins and Content – This may include, for example, content such as images, videos, or text, as well as buttons that allow users to share content from this website within Instagram. – We are jointly responsible with Meta Platforms Ireland Limited for the collection or receipt (but not the further processing) of “Event Data” that Facebook collects via Instagram features (e.g., content embedding features) executed on our online service or receives as part of a transfer for the following purposes: a) displaying content and advertising information that corresponds to users’ presumed interests; b) delivering commercial and transaction-related messages (e.g., contacting users via Facebook Messenger); c) Improving ad delivery and personalizing features and content (e.g., improving the identification of which content or advertising information is presumed to correspond to users’ interests). We have entered into a special agreement with Facebook (“Addendum for Controllers,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/controller_addendum), which specifically governs the security measures Facebook must observe (https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/data_security_terms) and in which Facebook has agreed to fulfill data subject rights (i.e., users can, for example, direct requests for information or deletion directly to Facebook). Note: When Facebook provides us with metrics, analyses, and reports (which are aggregated, i.e., do not contain information about individual users and are anonymous to us), this processing does not take place under joint responsibility but rather on the basis of a data processing agreement (“Data Processing Terms ,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/dataprocessing), the “Data Security Terms” (https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/data_security_terms), and, with regard to processing in the U.S., on the basis of standard contractual clauses (“Facebook-EU Data Transfer Addendum,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/EU_data_transfer_addendum). Users’ rights (in particular the right to access, erasure, objection, and complaint to the competent supervisory authority) are not restricted by the agreements with Facebook; Service Provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.instagram.com; Privacy Policy: https://instagram.com/about/legal/privacy.

Web Analytics, Monitoring, and Optimization

Web analytics (also known as “audience measurement”) is used to analyze visitor traffic to our website and may include pseudonymized data on visitor behavior, interests, or demographic information, such as age or gender. With the help of reach analysis, we can, for example, determine at what times our online offering or its functions or content are used most frequently or encourage repeat visits. We can also identify which areas require optimization. In addition to web analytics, we may also use testing methods to, for example, test and optimize different versions of our online offering or its components. Unless otherwise specified below, profiles—i.e., data aggregated for a specific usage session—may be created for these purposes, and information may be stored in a browser or on a device and retrieved from it. The data collected includes, in particular, visited webpages and elements used there, as well as technical details such as the browser and computer system used, and information regarding usage times. If users have consented to the collection of their location data by us or by the providers of the services we use, location data may also be processed. Users’ IP addresses are also stored. However, we use an IP masking procedure (i.e., pseudonymization by truncating the IP address) to protect users. In general, no personally identifiable user data (such as email addresses or names) is stored in the context of web analytics, A/B testing, and optimization; instead, pseudonyms are used. This means that neither we nor the providers of the software used know the actual identity of the users, but only the information stored in their profiles for the purposes of the respective processes.
  • Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times); metadata, communication data, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Audience measurement (e.g., traffic statistics, identification of returning visitors); profiles containing user-related information (creation of user profiles); provision of our online services and user-friendliness.
  • Security measures: IP masking (pseudonymization of the IP address).
  • Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Google Analytics 4: We use Google Analytics to measure and analyze the use of our online service based on a pseudonymous user identification number. This identification number does not contain any personally identifiable information, such as names or email addresses. It is used to associate analytical information with a device in order to identify which content users have accessed during one or more sessions, which search terms they used, whether they revisited the content, or interacted with our online offering. The time of use and its duration are also stored, as well as the sources that referred users to our online offering and technical aspects of their devices and browsers. In doing so, pseudonymous user profiles are created using information from the use of various devices, whereby cookies may be used. In Analytics, data on geographic location is provided at a higher level by collecting the following metadata based on IP lookup: “City” (and the derived latitude and longitude of the city), “continent,” “country,” “region,” “subcontinent” (and the ID-based equivalents). To ensure the protection of user data in the EU, Google receives and processes all user data via domains and servers within the EU. Users’ IP addresses are not logged and are truncated by the last two digits by default. The truncation of the IP address takes place on EU servers for EU users. In addition, all sensitive data collected from users in the EU is deleted before it is recorded via EU domains and servers; Service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR); Website: https://marketingplatform.google.com/intl/de/about/analytics/; Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Data Processing Agreement: https://business.safety.google/adsprocessorterms/; Standard Contractual Clauses (ensuring data protection standards for processing in third countries): https://business.safety.google/adsprocessorterms; Right to object (opt-out): Opt-out plugin: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout?hl=de,  Settings for the display of advertisements: https://adssettings.google.com/authenticated; Further information: https://privacy.google.com/businesses/adsservices (types of processing and the data processed).
  • Jetpack (WordPress Stats): Jetpack provides analytics features for WordPress software; Service provider: Automattic A8C Ireland Ltd., Grand Canal Dock, 25 Herbert Place, Dublin, D02 AY86, Ireland; Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR); Website: https://automattic.com; Privacy Policy: https://automattic.com/privacy.

Online Marketing

We process personal data for online marketing purposes, which may include, in particular, the marketing of advertising space or the display of advertising and other content (collectively referred to as “content”) based on users’ potential interests, as well as the measurement of their effectiveness. For these purposes, so-called user profiles are created and stored in a file (a so-called “cookie”) or similar methods are used to store user information relevant to the display of the aforementioned content. This information may include, for example, content viewed, websites visited, online networks used, as well as communication partners and technical details such as the browser used, the computer system used, and information regarding usage times and functions utilized. If users have consented to the collection of their location data, this data may also be processed. Users’ IP addresses are also stored. However, we use available IP masking methods (i.e., pseudonymization by truncating the IP address) to protect users. Generally, no clear user data (such as email addresses or names) is stored as part of online marketing procedures; instead, pseudonyms are used. This means that neither we nor the providers of the online marketing procedures know the actual identity of the users, but only the information stored in their profiles. The information in the profiles is generally stored in cookies or via similar methods. These cookies can generally also be read later on other websites that use the same online marketing process, analyzed for the purpose of displaying content, supplemented with additional data, and stored on the server of the online marketing service provider. In exceptional cases, personal data may be associated with the profiles. This is the case, for example, when users are members of a social network whose online marketing methods we use and the network links the users’ profiles with the aforementioned information. Please note that users may enter into additional agreements with the providers, e.g., by giving consent during registration. We generally only have access to aggregated information regarding the success of our advertisements. However, as part of so-called conversion tracking, we can determine which of our online marketing methods led to a so-called conversion, i.e., for example, to the conclusion of a contract with us. Conversion tracking is used solely to analyze the success of our marketing measures. Unless otherwise specified, please assume that the cookies used are stored for a period of two years.
  • Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., websites visited, interest in content, access times); meta, communication, and process data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status); Event data (Facebook) (“Event data” refers to data that may be transmitted by us to Facebook, e.g., via Facebook Pixel (through apps or other means), and relates to individuals or their actions; this data includes, for example, information about website visits, interactions with content, features, app installations, product purchases, etc.; Event data is processed for the purpose of creating target groups for content and advertising information (Custom Audiences); Event data does not include the actual content (such as comments posted), login information, or contact information (i.e., no names, email addresses, or phone numbers). Event data is deleted by Facebook after a maximum of two years; the target groups created from this data are deleted upon the deletion of our Facebook account.
  • Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Audience measurement (e.g., traffic statistics, identification of returning visitors); Tracking (e.g., interest-based/behavioral profiling, use of cookies); Marketing; Profiles containing user-related information (creation of user profiles); Conversion measurement (measuring the effectiveness of marketing measures); Target group identification; Provision of our online services and user-friendliness.
  • Security measures: IP masking (pseudonymization of the IP address).
  • Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) of the GDPR); Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
  • Opt-out option: We refer you to the privacy policies of the respective providers and the opt-out options provided by them. If no explicit opt-out option is provided, you have the option of disabling cookies in your browser settings. However, this may limit the functionality of our website. We therefore also recommend the following opt-out options, which are offered in summary form for the respective regions: a) Europe: https://www.youronlinechoices.eu.  b) Canada: https://www.youradchoices.ca/choices. c) USA: https://www.aboutads.info/choices. d) Global: https://optout.aboutads.info.
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Facebook Ads: Placement of ads within the Facebook platform and analysis of ad performance; Service provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.facebook.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.facebook.com/about/privacy; Opt-out option: We refer to the privacy and advertising settings in users’ profiles on the Facebook platform, as well as to Facebook’s consent procedures and contact options for exercising the right to access information and other data subject rights as outlined in Facebook’s Privacy Policy; Further information: User event data, i.e., behavioral and interest data, is processed for the purposes of targeted advertising and audience targeting based on the Joint Controller Agreement (“Addendum for Controllers,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/controller_addendum). Joint controllership is limited to the collection by and transfer of data to Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, a company based in the EU. Further processing of the data is the sole responsibility of Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, particularly with regard to the transfer of data to the parent company Meta Platforms, Inc. in the U.S. (based on the Standard Contractual Clauses concluded between Meta Platforms Ireland Limited and Meta Platforms, Inc.).
  • Google Ads and conversion tracking: Online marketing methods used to place content and ads within the service provider’s advertising network (e.g., in search results, in videos, on websites, etc.) so that they are displayed to users who are likely to be interested in the ads. In addition, we measure the conversion of the ads, i.e., whether users have taken the opportunity to interact with the ads and use the advertised offers (so-called conversion). However, we only receive anonymous information and no personal information about individual users; Service Provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR), Legitimate Interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://marketingplatform.google.com; Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Further Information: Types of processing and data processed: https://privacy.google.com/businesses/adsservices; Data processing agreements between controllers and standard contractual clauses for data transfers to third countries: https://business.safety.google/adscontrollerterms.
  • Instagram Ads: Placement of ads within the Instagram platform and analysis of ad performance; Service provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR); Website: https://www.instagram.com; Privacy Policy: https://instagram.com/about/legal/privacy; Right to object (opt-out): We refer to the privacy and advertising settings in users’ profiles on the Instagram platform, as well as to Instagram’s consent procedures and contact options for exercising the right to access information and other data subject rights as outlined in Instagram’s Privacy Policy; Further information: User event data, i.e., behavioral and interest data, is processed for the purposes of targeted advertising and audience targeting based on the Joint Controller Agreement (“Controller Addendum,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/controller_addendum). Joint controllership is limited to the collection by and transfer of data to Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, a company based in the EU. Further processing of the data is the sole responsibility of Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, particularly with regard to the transfer of data to the parent company Meta Platforms, Inc. in the U.S. (based on the Standard Contractual Clauses concluded between Meta Platforms Ireland Limited and Meta Platforms, Inc.).
  • LinkedIn: Insights Tag / Conversion Tracking; Service Provider: LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, Wilton Plaza, Wilton Place, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal Basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR); Website: https://www.linkedin.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy, Cookie Policy: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/cookie_policy; Standard Contractual Clauses (ensuring an adequate level of data protection for processing in third countries): https://legal.linkedin.com/dpa; Right to object (opt-out): https://www.linkedin.com/psettings/guest-controls/retargeting-opt-out.

Social media presence

We maintain online presences on social media platforms and, in this context, process user data in order to communicate with users active on those platforms or to provide information about us. Please note that this may involve the processing of user data outside the European Union. This may pose risks to users, as it could, for example, make it more difficult to enforce their rights. Furthermore, user data within social networks is generally processed for market research and advertising purposes. For example, usage profiles can be created based on users’ behavior and the resulting interests. These usage profiles can in turn be used, for example, to display advertisements within and outside the networks that are presumed to correspond to users’ interests. For these purposes, cookies are typically stored on users’ computers, in which users’ usage behavior and interests are recorded. Furthermore, data may also be stored in the usage profiles regardless of the devices used by the users (particularly if the users are members of the respective platforms and are logged in to them). For a detailed description of the respective forms of processing and the options for objection (opt-out), we refer you to the privacy policies and information provided by the operators of the respective networks. We also note that requests for information and the exercise of data subject rights are most effectively addressed directly with the providers. Only the providers have access to users’ data and can take appropriate measures and provide information directly. If you still need assistance, please contact us.
  • Types of data processed: Contact information (e.g., email addresses, phone numbers); content data (e.g., information entered in online forms); usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times); meta, communication, and process data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Contact requests and communication; feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via an online form); marketing.
  • Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Instagram: Social network; Service provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.instagram.com; Privacy Policy: https://instagram.com/about/legal/privacy.
  • Facebook Pages: Profiles within the Facebook social network – We are jointly responsible with Meta Platforms Ireland Limited for the collection (but not the further processing) of data from visitors to our Facebook page (known as a “fan page”). This data includes information about the types of content users view or interact with, or the actions they take (see “Things you and others do and provide” in the Facebook Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/policy), as well as information about the devices used by users (e.g., IP addresses, operating system, browser type, language settings, cookie data; see “Device Information” in the Facebook Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/policy). As explained in the Facebook Data Policy under “How do we use this information?”, Facebook also collects and uses information to provide analytics services, known as “Page Insights,” to page administrators so they can gain insights into how people interact with their pages and the content associated with them. We have entered into a special agreement with Facebook (“Information on Page Insights,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/page_controller_addendum), which specifically outlines the security measures Facebook must adhere to and in which Facebook has agreed to fulfill data subject rights (i.e., users can, for example, submit requests for information or deletion directly to Facebook). Users’ rights (in particular the rights to access, erasure, objection, and complaint to the competent supervisory authority) are not restricted by the agreements with Facebook. Further information can be found in the “Page Insights Information” (https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/information_about_page_insights_data); Service Provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.facebook.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.facebook.com/about/privacy; Standard Contractual Clauses (guaranteeing data protection standards for processing in third countries): https://www.facebook.com/legal/EU_data_transfer_addendum; Further information: Joint Controller Agreement: https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/information_about_page_insights_data. The joint controller arrangement is limited to the collection by and transfer of data to Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, a company based in the EU. Further processing of the data is the sole responsibility of Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, particularly with regard to the transfer of data to the parent company Meta Platforms, Inc. in the U.S. (based on the standard contractual clauses concluded between Meta Platforms Ireland Limited and Meta Platforms, Inc.).
  • Facebook Groups: Interest groups within the Facebook social network – We use the “Groups” feature of the Facebook platform to create interest groups where Facebook users can connect with one another or with us and exchange information. In doing so, we process the personal data of our group users to the extent necessary for the purpose of group use and moderation. Our guidelines within the groups may contain additional requirements and information regarding the use of the respective group. This data includes first and last names, as well as publicly posted or privately shared content, along with information regarding group membership status or group-related activities, such as joining or leaving the group, as well as the dates and times associated with the aforementioned data. Furthermore, we refer to the processing of user data by Facebook itself. This data includes information about the types of content users view or interact with, or the actions they take (see “Things you and others do and share” in the Facebook Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/policy), as well as information about the devices used by users (e.g., IP addresses, operating system, browser type, language settings, cookie data; see “Device Information” in the Facebook Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/policy). As explained in the Facebook Data Policy under “How do we use this information?”, Facebook also collects and uses information to provide analytics services, known as “Insights,” to group administrators so they can gain insights into how people interact with their groups and the content associated with them; Service Provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.facebook.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.facebook.com/about/privacy.
  • LinkedIn: Social network; Service provider: LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, Wilton Plaza, Wilton Place, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.linkedin.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy; Data Processing Agreement: https://legal.linkedin.com/dpa; Standard Contractual Clauses (ensuring an adequate level of data protection for processing in third countries): https://legal.linkedin.com/dpa; Right to object (opt-out): https://www.linkedin.com/psettings/guest-controls/retargeting-opt-out.
  • Pinterest: Social network; Service provider: Pinterest Europe Limited, 2nd Floor, Palmerston House, Fenian Street, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.pinterest.com; Privacy Policy: https://policy.pinterest.com/de/privacy-policy; Further information: Pinterest Data Sharing Addendum (APPENDIX A): https://business.pinterest.com/de/pinterest-advertising-services-agreement/.
  • TikTok: Social network / video platform; Service provider: TikTok Technology Limited, 10 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin, D02 T380, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.tiktok.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.tiktok.com/de/privacy-policy.
  • YouTube: Social network and video platform; Service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Privacy policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Opt-out option: https://adssettings.google.com/authenticated.

Plugins, embedded functions, and content

We incorporate functional and content elements into our online offering that are sourced from the servers of their respective providers (hereinafter referred to as “third-party providers”). These may include, for example, graphics, videos, or city maps (hereinafter collectively referred to as “content”). This integration always requires that the third-party providers of this content process the user’s IP address, as they would not be able to send the content to the user’s browser without it. The IP address is therefore necessary for the display of this content or these functions. We strive to use only such content whose respective providers use the IP address solely for the purpose of delivering the content. Third-party providers may also use so-called pixel tags (invisible graphics, also known as “web beacons”) for statistical or marketing purposes. Pixel tags allow information, such as visitor traffic on the pages of this website, to be analyzed. The pseudonymous information may also be stored in cookies on the user’s device and may include, among other things, technical information about the browser and operating system, referring websites, time of visit, and other details regarding the use of our online services, as well as being linked to such information from other sources.
  • Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., websites visited, interest in content, access times); meta, communication, and process data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status); master data (e.g., names, addresses); contact data (e.g., email, phone numbers); Content data (e.g., entries in online forms); Location data (information regarding the geographic position of a device or a person); Event data (Facebook) (“Event data” refers to data that may be transmitted by us to Facebook, e.g., via Facebook pixels (through apps or other means), and relates to individuals or their actions; The data includes, for example, information about visits to websites, interactions with content, features, app installations, product purchases, etc.; the event data is processed for the purpose of creating target groups for content and advertising information (Custom Audiences); Event Data does not include the actual content (such as comments posted), login information, or contact information (i.e., no names, email addresses, or phone numbers). Event Data is deleted by Facebook after a maximum of two years; the target groups created from it are deleted upon the deletion of our Facebook account.
  • Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Providing our online services and ensuring user-friendliness; delivering contractual services and customer service; marketing; creating profiles containing user-related information (creation of user profiles).
  • Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR); Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:
  • Facebook Plugins and Content: Facebook Social Plugins and Content – This may include, for example, content such as images, videos, or text, as well as buttons that allow users to share content from this website on Facebook. The list and appearance of Facebook Social Plugins can be viewed here: https://developers.facebook.com/docs/plugins/ – We are jointly responsible with Meta Platforms Ireland Limited for the collection or receipt (but not the further processing) of “Event Data” that Facebook collects via the Facebook Social Plugins (and content embedding features) running on our online service, or receives as part of a transfer, for the following purposes: a) Displaying content and advertising information that corresponds to users’ presumed interests; b) Delivering commercial and transaction-related messages (e.g., contacting users via Facebook Messenger); c) Improving ad delivery and personalizing features and content (e.g., improving the identification of which content or advertising information is presumed to correspond to users’ interests). We have entered into a special agreement with Facebook (“Addendum for Controllers,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/controller_addendum), which specifically governs the security measures Facebook must observe (https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/data_security_terms) and in which Facebook has agreed to fulfill the rights of data subjects (i.e., users can, for example, direct requests for information or deletion directly to Facebook). Note: When Facebook provides us with metrics, analyses, and reports (which are aggregated, i.e., do not contain information about individual users and are anonymous to us), this processing does not take place under joint responsibility but rather on the basis of a data processing agreement (“Data Processing Terms ,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/dataprocessing), the “Data Security Terms” (https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/data_security_terms), and, with regard to processing in the U.S., on the basis of standard contractual clauses (“Facebook-EU Data Transfer Addendum,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/EU_data_transfer_addendum). Users’ rights (in particular the right to access, erasure, objection, and complaint to the competent supervisory authority) are not restricted by the agreements with Facebook; Service Provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR); Website: https://www.facebook.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.facebook.com/about/privacy.
  • Google Maps: We integrate maps from the “Google Maps” service provided by Google. The data processed may include, in particular, users’ IP addresses and location data; Service provider: Google Cloud EMEA Limited, 70 Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://mapsplatform.google.com/; Privacy policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy.
  • Google Maps APIs and SDKs: Interfaces to Google’s map and location services that enable, for example, the completion of address entries, location determination, distance calculations, or the provision of additional information about locations and other places; Service provider: Google Cloud EMEA Limited, 70 Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://mapsplatform.google.com/; Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy.
  • Instagram Plugins and Content: Instagram Plugins and Content – This may include, for example, content such as images, videos, or text, as well as buttons that allow users to share content from this website within Instagram. – We are jointly responsible with Meta Platforms Ireland Limited for the collection or receipt (but not the further processing) of “Event Data” that Facebook collects via Instagram features (e.g., content embedding features) executed on our online service or receives as part of a transfer for the following purposes: a) displaying content and advertising information that corresponds to users’ presumed interests; b) delivering commercial and transaction-related messages (e.g., contacting users via Facebook Messenger); c) Improving ad delivery and personalizing features and content (e.g., improving the identification of which content or advertising information is presumed to correspond to users’ interests). We have entered into a special agreement with Facebook (“Addendum for Controllers,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/controller_addendum), which specifically governs the security measures Facebook must observe (https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/data_security_terms) and in which Facebook has agreed to fulfill data subject rights (i.e., users can, for example, direct requests for information or deletion directly to Facebook). Note: When Facebook provides us with metrics, analyses, and reports (which are aggregated, i.e., do not contain information about individual users and are anonymous to us), this processing does not take place under joint responsibility but rather on the basis of a data processing agreement (“Data Processing Terms ,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/dataprocessing), the “Data Security Terms” (https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/data_security_terms), and, with regard to processing in the U.S., on the basis of standard contractual clauses (“Facebook-EU Data Transfer Addendum,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/EU_data_transfer_addendum). Users’ rights (in particular the right to access, erasure, objection, and complaint to the competent supervisory authority) are not restricted by the agreements with Facebook; Service Provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.instagram.com; Privacy Policy: https://instagram.com/about/legal/privacy.
  • LinkedIn Plugins and Content: LinkedIn plugins and content—this may include, for example, content such as images, videos, or text, as well as buttons that allow users to share content from this website on LinkedIn; Service Provider: LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, Wilton Place, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.linkedin.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy; Data Processing Agreement: https://legal.linkedin.com/dpa; Standard Contractual Clauses (ensuring an adequate level of data protection for processing in third countries): https://legal.linkedin.com/dpa; Right to object (opt-out): https://www.linkedin.com/psettings/guest-controls/retargeting-opt-out.
  • OpenStreetMap: We incorporate maps from the “OpenStreetMap” service, which are provided by the OpenStreetMap Foundation (OSMF) under the Open Data Commons Open Database License (ODbL). User data is used by OpenStreetMap exclusively for the purpose of displaying map functions and temporarily storing selected settings. This data may include, in particular, users’ IP addresses and location data; however, such data is not collected without their consent (which is typically provided through the settings on their mobile devices); Service provider: OpenStreetMap Foundation (OSMF); Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.openstreetmap.de; Privacy policy: https://wiki.osmfoundation.org/wiki/Privacy_Policy.
  • Pinterest Plugins and Content: Pinterest plugins and content – This may include, for example, content such as images, videos, or text, as well as buttons that allow users to share content from this website on Pinterest; Service Provider: Pinterest Inc., 635 High Street, Palo Alto, CA 94301, USA; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.pinterest.com; Privacy Policy: https://policy.pinterest.com/de/privacy-policy.
  • reCAPTCHA: We integrate the “reCAPTCHA” feature to determine whether entries (e.g., in online forms) are made by humans and not by automated machines (so-called “bots”). The data processed may include IP addresses, information about operating systems, devices, or browsers used, language settings, location, mouse movements, keystrokes, time spent on web pages, previously visited web pages, interactions with reCAPTCHA on other websites, cookies under certain circumstances, as well as results of manual verification processes (e.g., answering questions or selecting objects in images). Data processing is based on our legitimate interest in protecting our online offering from abusive automated crawling and spam; Service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.google.com/recaptcha/; Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Opt-out option: Opt-out plugin: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout?hl=de, Settings for displaying ads: https://adssettings.google.com/authenticated.
  • YouTube videos: Video content ; Service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.youtube.com; Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Opt-out option: Opt-out plugin: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout?hl=de, Settings for displaying ads: https://adssettings.google.com/authenticated.

Management, Organization, and Support Tools

We use services, platforms, and software from other providers (hereinafter referred to as “third-party providers”) for the purposes of organizing, managing, planning, and delivering our services. When selecting third-party providers and their services, we comply with legal requirements. In this context, personal data may be processed and stored on the third-party providers’ servers. This may involve various types of data that we process in accordance with this Privacy Policy. Such data may include, in particular, users’ master data and contact information, as well as data regarding transactions, contracts, other processes, and their contents. If users are referred to third-party providers or their software or platforms in the context of communication, business, or other relationships with us, the third-party providers may process usage data and metadata for security purposes, service optimization, or marketing purposes. We therefore ask that you review the privacy policies of the respective third-party providers.
  • Types of data processed: Content data (e.g., entries in online forms); usage data (e.g., websites visited, content interests, access times); meta, communication, and process data (e.g., IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, consent status).
  • Data subjects: Communication partners; users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Contact requests and communication; provision of contractual services and customer service; office and organizational procedures.
  • Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) of the GDPR).
Additional information on processing procedures, methods, and services:

Changes and Updates to the Privacy Policy

We ask that you review the content of our Privacy Policy on a regular basis. We will update the Privacy Policy as soon as changes to our data processing practices make it necessary to do so. We will notify you as soon as the changes require action on your part (e.g., consent) or any other individual notification. If we provide addresses and contact information for companies and organizations in this Privacy Policy, please note that these addresses may change over time, and we ask that you verify the information before contacting them.

Rights of data subjects

As a data subject, you have various rights under the GDPR, which arise in particular from Articles 15 through 21 of the GDPR:
  • Right to Object: You have the right to object at any time, on grounds relating to your particular situation, to the processing of personal data concerning you that is carried out pursuant to Article 6(1)(e) or (f) of the GDPR; this also applies to profiling based on these provisions. If your personal data is processed for the purpose of direct marketing, you have the right to object at any time to the processing of your personal data for such marketing purposes; this also applies to profiling to the extent that it is related to such direct marketing.
  • Right to withdraw consent: You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time.
  • Right of access: You have the right to request confirmation as to whether your personal data is being processed, as well as access to that data, further information, and a copy of the data in accordance with legal requirements.
  • Right to Rectification: In accordance with legal requirements, you have the right to request that data concerning you be completed or that inaccurate data concerning you be corrected.
  • Right to erasure and restriction of processing: In accordance with legal requirements, you have the right to request that data concerning you be erased without delay or, alternatively, to request that the processing of such data be restricted in accordance with legal requirements.
  • Right to data portability: You have the right to receive the personal data concerning you that you have provided to us in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format, in accordance with legal requirements, or to request that it be transmitted to another controller.
  • Complaint to a supervisory authority: Without prejudice to any other administrative or judicial remedy, you have the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority, in particular in the Member State of your habitual residence, your place of work, or the place where the alleged infringement occurred, if you believe that the processing of your personal data violates the provisions of the GDPR.

Definitions of Terms

This section provides an overview of the terms used in this Privacy Policy. Many of these terms are derived from the law and are defined primarily in Article 4 of the GDPR. The legal definitions are binding. The explanations below, however, are intended primarily to aid understanding. The terms are listed in alphabetical order.
  • Conversion Tracking: Conversion tracking (also known as “visit-action analysis”) is a method used to determine the effectiveness of marketing campaigns. To do this, a cookie is typically stored on users’ devices while they are on the websites where the marketing campaigns are running, and then retrieved again on the destination website. For example, this allows us to track whether the ads we placed on other websites were successful.
  • Personal data: “Personal data” means any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person (hereinafter referred to as the “data subject”); a natural person is considered identifiable if they can be identified, directly or indirectly, in particular by reference to an identifier such as a name, an identification number, location data, an online identifier (e.g., a cookie), or to one or more factors specific to the physical, physiological, genetic, mental, economic, cultural, or social identity of that natural person.
  • Profiles containing user-related information: The processing of “profiles containing user-related information,” or “profiles” for short, encompasses any form of automated processing of personal data that involves using such personal data to analyze, evaluate, or predict certain personal aspects relating to a natural person (depending on the type of profiling, this may include various information regarding demographics, behavior, and interests, such as interaction with websites and their content, etc.), or to predict them (e.g., interests in specific content or products, click behavior on a website, or location). Cookies and web beacons are frequently used for profiling purposes.
  • Audience measurement: Audience measurement (also known as web analytics) is used to analyze visitor traffic to an online platform and can include an analysis of visitors’ behavior or interests regarding specific information, such as website content. With the help of reach analysis, website owners can, for example, determine at what times visitors access their website and what content interests them. This allows them, for instance, to better tailor the website’s content to the needs of their visitors. For the purposes of reach analysis, pseudonymous cookies and web beacons are frequently used to identify returning visitors and thus obtain more accurate analyses of the use of an online offering.
  • Location data: Location data is generated when a mobile device (or another device capable of determining its location) connects to a cellular network, a Wi-Fi network, or similar technical means and location-determination functions. Location data is used to indicate the specific geographic location of the device on Earth. Location data can be used, for example, to display map features or other location-based information.
  • Tracking: The term “tracking” refers to the ability to track users’ behavior across multiple online services. Typically, information about behavior and interests related to the online services used is stored in cookies or on the servers of the providers of tracking technologies (so-called profiling). This information can then be used, for example, to display advertisements to users that are likely to match their interests.
  • Controller: The term “controller” refers to the natural or legal person, public authority, agency, or other body that, alone or jointly with others, determines the purposes and means of the processing of personal data.
  • Processing: “Processing” means any operation or set of operations performed on personal data, whether or not by automated means. The term is broad and encompasses virtually any interaction with data, including collection, analysis, storage, transmission, or deletion.
  • Target audience creation: The term “Custom Audiences” refers to the process of defining target audiences for advertising purposes, such as displaying ads. For example, based on a user’s interest in certain products or topics online, it can be inferred that this user is interested in ads for similar products or the online store where they viewed the products. The term “Lookalike Audiences” (or similar target groups) is used when content deemed suitable is displayed to users whose profiles or interests are presumed to match those of the users whose profiles were used to create the Lookalike Audience. Cookies and web beacons are typically used for the purpose of creating Custom Audiences and Lookalike Audiences.
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