Privacy Policy

Table of Contents

• Overview of Processing Activities
• Representative in the European Union
• Relevant Legal Bases
• Security Measures
• Transfer of Personal Data
• International Data Transfers
• General Information on Data Storage and Deletion
• Rights of Data Subjects
• Provision of the Online Offering and Web Hosting
• Use of Cookies
• Blogs and Publication Media
• Contact and Inquiry Management
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Audio Content
• Newsletters and Electronic Notifications
• Surveys and Polls
• Web Analytics, Monitoring and Optimization
• Customer Reviews and Rating Procedures
• Presence on Social Networks (Social Media)
• Plug-ins and Embedded Functions and Content
• Amendment and Updates
• Definitions of Terms

Overview of Processing Activities

The following overview summarizes the types of data processed and the purposes of their processing and refers to the data subjects concerned.

Types of Data Processed

• Inventory data.
• Contact data.
• Content data.
• Contract data.
• Usage data.
• Meta, communication and procedural data.
• Log data.

Categories of Data Subjects

• Service recipients and clients.
• Communication partners.
• Users.
• Participants.
• Third parties.

Purposes of Processing

• Communication.
• Security measures.
• Direct marketing.
• Reach measurement.
• Tracking.
• Conversion measurement.
• Audience building.
• Organizational and administrative procedures.
• Feedback.
• Surveys and questionnaires.
• Marketing.
• Profiles with user-related information.
• Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
• Information technology infrastructure.
• Public relations.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Relevant Legal Bases

Relevant legal bases under the GDPR: Below you will find an overview of the legal bases of the GDPR on which we process personal data. Please note that, in addition to the provisions of the GDPR, national data protection regulations in your or our country of residence or registered office may also apply. If, in individual cases, more specific legal bases are relevant, we will inform you of these in this Privacy Policy.

• Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR) – The data subject has given their consent to the processing of personal data concerning them for one or more specific purposes.
• Contract performance and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR) – Processing is necessary for the performance of a contract to which the data subject is party, or in order to take steps at the request of the data subject prior to entering into a contract.
• Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) 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.

National data protection regulations in Germany: In addition to the data protection regulations of the GDPR, national data protection regulations apply in Germany. In particular, this includes the Federal Data Protection Act (Bundesdatenschutzgesetz – BDSG). The BDSG contains, in particular, special provisions regarding the right to access, the right to erasure, the right to object, the processing of special categories of personal data, processing for other purposes, and transfer as well as automated decision-making in individual cases, including profiling. Furthermore, state data protection laws of the individual federal states may apply.

Notice on the applicability of GDPR and Swiss Data Protection Act (DSG): These data protection notices serve to provide information in accordance with both the Swiss Data Protection Act (DSG) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Therefore, please note that, due to the broader territorial application and comprehensibility, the terms of the GDPR are used. In particular, instead of the terms “processing” of “personal data”, “overriding interest”, and “particularly sensitive personal data” used in the Swiss DSG, the terms “processing” of “personal data”, “legitimate interest” and “special categories of data” from the GDPR are used. However, the legal meaning of the terms will continue to be determined according to the Swiss DSG within the scope of its applicability.

Security Measures

We take appropriate technical and organizational measures in accordance with legal requirements—taking into account the state of the art, implementation costs, and the nature, scope, circumstances, and purposes of processing as well as the varying likelihood and severity of the risk to the rights and freedoms of natural persons—in order to ensure a level of protection appropriate to the risk.

These measures include, in particular, safeguarding the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data by controlling both physical and electronic access to the data, as well as access, input, transfer, securing of availability, and separation of the data. Furthermore, we have established procedures to ensure the exercise of data subject rights, the erasure of data, and responses to data security threats. We also take into account the protection of personal data when developing or selecting hardware, software, and procedures in accordance with the principle of data protection by design and by default.

Securing online connections via TLS/SSL encryption technology (HTTPS):
To protect the data of users transmitted via our online services from unauthorized access, we use TLS/SSL encryption technology. Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) are the cornerstones of secure data transmission on the internet. These technologies encrypt the information transmitted between the website or app and the user’s browser (or between two servers), thereby protecting the data from unauthorized access. TLS, as the more advanced and secure version of SSL, ensures that all data transmissions meet the highest security standards. When a website is secured by an SSL/TLS certificate, this is indicated by the display of HTTPS in the URL. This serves as an indicator to users that their data is being transmitted securely and in encrypted form.

Transfer of Personal Data

In the course of our processing of personal data, it may happen that such data is transferred to other entities, companies, legally independent organizational units, or persons, or disclosed to them. Recipients of this data may include, for example, service providers commissioned with IT tasks or providers of services and content that are integrated into a website. In such cases, we comply with legal requirements and, in particular, conclude corresponding contracts or agreements with the recipients of your data that serve to protect your data.

International Data Transfers

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 the processing takes place as part of the use of third-party services or the disclosure or transfer of data to other persons, entities, or companies, this is done only in accordance with legal requirements. Where the level of data protection in the third country has been recognized by an adequacy decision (Art. 45 GDPR), this serves as the basis for the data transfer. Otherwise, data transfers are carried out only if the level of protection is otherwise ensured, in particular by standard contractual clauses (Art. 46 para. 2 lit. c) GDPR), explicit consent, or in the case of contractual or legally required transfer (Art. 49 para. 1 GDPR). We will inform you of the legal bases for third-country transfers with regard to the individual providers from third countries, with adequacy decisions taking precedence. Information on third-country transfers and existing adequacy decisions can be found in the information provided by the EU Commission:
https://commission.europa.eu/law/law-topic/data-protection/international-dimension-data-protection_en?prefLang=de.

Under the so-called “Data Privacy Framework” (DPF), the EU Commission also recognized the level of data protection as adequate for certain companies from the USA as of the adequacy decision dated 10 July 2023. The list of certified companies as well as further information about the DPF can be found on the website of the US Department of Commerce at
https://www.dataprivacyframework.gov/ (in English).
Within these privacy notices, we will inform you which service providers we use are certified under the Data Privacy Framework.

General Information on Data Storage and Deletion

We delete personal data that we process in accordance with legal requirements as soon as the underlying consents are revoked or there are no further legal bases for processing. This applies in cases where the original purpose of processing ceases to exist or the data is no longer needed. Exceptions to this rule exist where legal obligations or special interests require longer retention or archiving of the data.

In particular, data that must be retained for commercial or tax reasons or whose storage is necessary for legal prosecution or for the protection of the rights of other natural or legal persons must be archived accordingly.

Our privacy notices contain additional information on the retention and deletion of data that specifically applies to certain processing operations.

If there are multiple indications of the retention period or deletion deadline for a datum, the longest period always applies.

If a period does not expressly begin on a specific date and is at least one year, it automatically begins at the end of the calendar year in which the triggering event occurred. In the case of ongoing contractual relationships in which data is stored, the triggering event is the effective date of termination or other ending of the legal relationship.

Data that is no longer retained for the originally intended purpose but due to legal requirements or other reasons is processed exclusively for the reasons justifying its retention.

Further information on processing operations, procedures and services:

• Retention and deletion of data: The following general periods apply for retention and archiving under German law:
  • 10 years – Retention period for books and records, annual financial statements, inventories, management reports, opening balance sheets as well as the work instructions and other organizational documents necessary for their understanding (§ 147 para. 1 no. 1 in conjunction with para. 3 AO, § 14b para. 1 UStG, § 257 para. 1 no. 1 in conjunction with para. 4 HGB).
  • 8 years – Accounting documents, such as invoices and cost receipts (§ 147 para. 1 nos. 4 and 4a in conjunction with para. 3 sentence 1 AO as well as § 257 para. 1 no. 4 in conjunction with para. 4 HGB).
  • 6 years – Other business documents: received commercial or business letters, copies of sent commercial or business letters, other documents relevant for taxation, such as time sheets, cost accounting sheets, calculation documents, price tags, but also payroll documents unless they are already accounting documents, and cash register tapes (§ 147 para. 1 nos. 2, 3, 5 in conjunction with para. 3 AO, § 257 para. 1 nos. 2 and 3 in conjunction with para. 4 HGB).
  • 3 years – Data required to take into account potential warranty and compensation claims or similar contractual claims and rights as well as to process related inquiries, based on past business experience and common industry practice, are stored for the duration of the standard statutory limitation period of three years (§§ 195, 199 BGB).

Rights of Data Subjects

Rights of data subjects under the GDPR: As a data subject, you have various rights under the GDPR, particularly as set out in Articles 15 to 21 GDPR:

• Right to object: You have the right, on grounds relating to your particular situation, to object at any time to the processing of personal data concerning you which is based on Article 6(1)(e) or (f) GDPR; this also applies to profiling based on these provisions. Where personal data concerning you is processed for direct marketing purposes, you have the right to object at any time to the processing of personal data concerning you for such marketing; this also applies to profiling insofar as 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 obtain confirmation as to whether or not personal data concerning you is being processed, and, where that is the case, access to the personal data and further information as required by law, as well as a copy of the data.
• Right to rectification: You have the right, as required by law, to have incomplete personal data completed or inaccurate personal data rectified.
• Right to erasure and restriction of processing: You have the right, as required by law, to demand that data concerning you be erased without undue delay, or alternatively, as required by law, to demand restriction of processing of the data.
• Right to data portability: You have the right to receive the personal data concerning you which you have provided to us, in a structured, commonly used and machine-readable format, or to have it transmitted to another controller, as required by law.
• Right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority: As required by law and without prejudice to any other administrative or judicial remedy, you have the right to lodge a complaint with a data protection supervisory authority, in particular in the Member State of your habitual residence, place of work or place of the alleged infringement, if you consider that the processing of personal data relating to you infringes the GDPR.

Provision of the Online Offering and Web Hosting

We process users’ data in order to be able to provide them with our online services. For this purpose, we process the user’s IP address, which is necessary in order to transmit the content and functions of our online services to the user’s browser or device.

• Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions); Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, involved persons); Log data (e.g., log files relating to logins or data retrieval or access times). Content data (e.g., textual or visual messages and posts and the information relating to them, such as authorship details or time of creation).
• Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
• Purposes of processing: Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness; information technology infrastructure (operation and provision of information systems and technical devices (computers, servers, etc.)). Security measures.
• Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Storage and Deletion.”
• Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• Provision of the online offering on rented storage space: For the provision of our online offering, we use storage space, computing capacity, and software that we rent or otherwise obtain from a corresponding server provider (also referred to as a “web host”); Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).
• Collection of access data and log files: Access to our online offering is logged in the form of so-called “server log files.” The server log files may include the address and name of the retrieved web pages and files, date and time of retrieval, data volumes transferred, notification of successful retrieval, 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 avoid server overloads (especially in the case of abusive attacks, so-called DDoS attacks), and, on the other hand, to ensure the utilization and stability of the servers; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR). Deletion of data: Log file information is stored for a maximum period of 30 days and then deleted or anonymized. Data that needs to be retained for evidentiary purposes is excluded from deletion until the respective incident has been finally clarified.
• Cyon: Services in the field of providing information technology infrastructure and related services (e.g., storage space and/or computing capacity); Service provider: cyon GmbH, Brunngässlein 12, CH – 4052 Basel, Switzerland; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.cyon.ch; Privacy Policy: https://www.cyon.ch/legal/datenschutzerklaerung. Basis for third-country transfers: Adequacy decision (Switzerland).

Use of Cookies

The term “cookies” refers to functions that store information on users’ end devices and read it from them. Cookies can be used for various purposes, such as functionality, security, and convenience of online offerings, as well as for analyzing visitor flows. We use cookies in accordance with legal requirements. Where necessary, we obtain users’ consent in advance. If consent is not required, we rely on our legitimate interests. This applies if storing and reading information is essential to provide expressly requested content and functions. This includes, for example, storing settings as well as ensuring the functionality and security of our online offering. Consent may be revoked at any time. We provide clear information about the scope and types of cookies used.

Information on data protection legal bases: Whether we process personal data with the help of cookies depends on whether consent has been given. If consent is present, it serves as the legal basis. Without consent, we rely on our legitimate interests, which are explained in this section and in the context of the respective services and processes.

Retention period: With regard to the retention period, the following types of cookies are distinguished:

• Temporary cookies (also: session cookies): Temporary cookies are deleted at the latest after a user has left an online offering and closed their end device (e.g., browser or mobile application).
• Permanent cookies: Permanent cookies remain stored even after the end device is closed. For example, the login status can be stored and preferred content displayed directly when the user visits a website again. Similarly, user data collected by cookies may be used for reach measurement. Unless we provide users with explicit information about the type and retention period of cookies (e.g., when obtaining consent), they should assume that these are permanent and the retention period can be up to two years.

General information on withdrawal and objection (opt-out): Users may withdraw the consents they have given at any time and may also object to processing in accordance with legal requirements, including via the privacy settings of their browser.

• Types of data processed: Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, involved persons).
• Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
• Purposes of processing: Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
• Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR). Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• Processing of cookie data on the basis of consent: We use a consent management solution in which users’ consent for the use of cookies or for the processes and providers named in the consent management solution is obtained. This procedure is used to obtain, record, manage, and revoke consents, particularly with regard to the use of cookies and comparable technologies for storing, reading, and processing information on users’ end devices. In this process, users’ consents for the use of cookies and the related processing of information—including the specific processes and providers mentioned in the consent management process—are obtained. Users also have the option to manage and revoke their consents. The consent declarations are stored to avoid repeated queries and to be able to demonstrate the consent in accordance with legal requirements. Storage takes place server-side and/or in a cookie (so-called opt-in cookie) or by means of comparable technologies to be able to assign the consent to a specific user or device. Unless there are specific details about providers of consent management services, the following general information applies: The consent is stored for up to two years. A pseudonymous user identifier is created, which is stored together with the time of consent, details of the scope of consent (e.g., relevant categories of cookies and/or service providers), as well as information about the browser, system, and end device used; Legal bases: Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR).
• CookieYes: Consent management: Procedure for obtaining, recording, managing, and revoking consents, especially for the use of cookies and similar technologies for storing, reading, and processing information on users’ end devices and their processing; Service provider: CookieYes Limited, 3 Warren Yard Warren Park, Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes, MK12 5NW, United Kingdom; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.cookieyes.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.cookieyes.com/privacy-policy/. Data Processing Agreement: https://www.cookieyes.com/dpa/.

Blogs and Publication Media

We use blogs or comparable means of online communication and publication (hereinafter “publication media”). The data of readers is processed for the purposes of the publication media only to the extent necessary for its presentation and the communication between authors and readers or for security reasons. Otherwise, we refer to the information on the processing of visitors to our publication media within these privacy notices.

• Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g., full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); Contact data (e.g., postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); Content data (e.g., textual or visual messages and posts and the information relating to them, such as authorship details or time of creation); Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, involved persons).
• Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
• Purposes of processing: Feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via online form). Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
• Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Storage and Deletion.”
• Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Contact and Inquiry Management

When you contact us (e.g., by post, contact form, email, telephone, or via social media) or in the context of existing user and business relationships, the information provided by the inquiring persons is processed to the extent necessary to respond to the contact requests and any requested measures.

• Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g., full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); Contact data (e.g., postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); Content data (e.g., textual or visual messages and posts and the information relating to them, such as authorship details or time of creation); Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, involved persons).
• Data subjects: Communication partners.
• Purposes of processing: Communication; organizational and administrative procedures; feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via online form). Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
• Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Storage and Deletion.”
• Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR). Contract performance and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• Contact form: When contacting us via our contact form, by email or other means of communication, we process the personal data provided to us to respond to and process the respective request. This typically includes information such as name, contact details, and, if applicable, further information provided to us and necessary for appropriate handling. We use this data exclusively for the stated purpose of contacting and communicating; Legal bases: Contract performance and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We use artificial intelligence (AI), whereby personal data is processed. The specific purposes and our interest in the use of AI are set out below. For the purposes of this policy, we understand AI according to the definition of an “AI system” in Article 3 No. 1 of the AI Act: a machine-based system designed to operate with varying levels of autonomy, which can adapt after deployment, and produces outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments.

Our AI systems are used in strict compliance with legal requirements. These include both specific regulations for artificial intelligence and data protection requirements. In particular, we adhere to the principles of lawfulness, transparency, fairness, human oversight, purpose limitation, data minimization, and integrity as well as confidentiality. We ensure that the processing of personal data is always based on a legal foundation. This can be either the consent of the data subjects or a statutory authorization.

When using external AI systems, we select their providers (“AI providers”) carefully. In accordance with our legal obligations, we ensure that AI providers comply with the applicable requirements. We also observe our own obligations when using or operating the AI services obtained. The processing of personal data by us and by AI providers is carried out exclusively on the basis of consent or legal authorization. Particular emphasis is placed on transparency, fairness, and the preservation of human oversight of AI-driven decision-making processes.

To protect the data processed, we implement appropriate and robust technical and organizational measures. These ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the data processed and minimize potential risks. Through regular reviews of AI providers and their services, we ensure ongoing compliance with current legal and ethical standards.

• Types of data processed: Content data (e.g., textual or visual messages and posts and the information relating to them, such as authorship details or time of creation). Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions).
• Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services). Third parties.
• Purposes of processing: Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Storage and Deletion.”
• Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• ChatGPT: AI-based service designed to understand and generate natural language and related inputs and data, analyze information, and make predictions (“AI” in the relevant legal sense of the term); Service provider: OpenAI Ireland Ltd, 117-126 Sheriff Street Upper, D01 YC43 Dublin 1, Ireland; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://openai.com/product; Privacy Policy: https://openai.com/de/policies/eu-privacy-policy. Opt-out: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevgtKyiSWIOj6CV6XWBHl1daPZSOcIWzcUYUXQ1xttjBgDpA/viewform.
• DeepL: Translation of texts into different languages and provision of synonyms as well as context examples. Support in correcting and improving texts in various languages; Service provider: DeepL SE, Maarweg 165, 50825 Cologne, Germany; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.deepl.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.deepl.com/de/privacy. Data Processing Agreement: Provided by the service provider.
• Midjourney: Generation of AI-generated images based on text inputs, customization and refinement of generated images through iterative input, storage and management of created content, provision of an online platform for interacting with other users and sharing results; Service provider: Midjourney, Inc., 795 Folsom Street, 1st Floor, San Francisco, CA 94107 USA; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.midjourney.com/; Privacy Policy: https://docs.midjourney.com/docs/privacy-policy.

Audio Content

We use hosting services from service providers to make our audio content available for listening and downloading. For this purpose, we use platforms that enable uploading, storing, and distribution of audio material.

• Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions); Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, involved persons). Log data (e.g., log files relating to logins or data retrieval or access times).
• Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
• Purposes of processing: Reach measurement (e.g., access statistics, recognition of returning visitors); conversion measurement (measuring the effectiveness of marketing activities); profiles with user-related information (creating user profiles). Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
• Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Storage and Deletion.”
• Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• Podigee: Hosting, distribution, and analysis of podcasts; provision of web players for podcasts; creation of podcast feeds; usage and reach statistics; Service provider: Podigee GmbH, Schlesische Straße 20, 10997 Berlin, Germany; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.podigee.com/de/; Privacy Policy: https://www.podigee.com/de/ueber-uns/datenschutz.

Newsletters and Electronic Notifications

We send newsletters, emails, and other electronic notifications (hereinafter “newsletters”) only with the consent of the recipients or on the basis of a legal basis. If the content of the newsletter is specified in the context of a subscription, this content is decisive for the user’s consent. For subscribing to our newsletter, usually your email address is sufficient. However, to provide you with a personalized service, we may also ask for your name for a personal salutation in the newsletter or for additional information if required for the purpose of the newsletter.

Deletion and restriction of processing: We may store unsubscribed email addresses for up to three years on the basis of our legitimate interests before deleting them, in order to be able to prove previously given consent. The processing of these data is limited to the purpose of a possible defense against claims. An individual deletion request is possible at any time, provided that the former existence of consent is confirmed at the same time. In the case of obligations to permanently observe objections, we reserve the right to store the email address solely for this purpose in a blocklist.

The logging of the registration process is carried out on the basis of our legitimate interests for the purpose of proving its proper course. If we commission a service provider with the dispatch of emails, this is done on the basis of our legitimate interests in an efficient and secure mailing system.

Content:
Information about us, our services, campaigns, and offers.

• Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g., full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); Contact data (e.g., postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, involved persons). Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions).
• Data subjects: Communication partners.
• Purposes of processing: Direct marketing (e.g., by email or post).
• Legal bases: Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).
• Opt-out: You can unsubscribe from our newsletter at any time, i.e., revoke your consents or object to further receipt. A link to unsubscribe from the newsletter can be found at the end of each newsletter, or you can use one of the contact options provided above, preferably by email.

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• Mailchimp: Email marketing, marketing process automation, collection, storage, and management of contact data, measurement of campaign performance, collection and analysis of recipient interactions with content, personalization of content; Service provider: Rocket Science Group, LLC, 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE #5000, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://mailchimp.com; Privacy Policy: https://mailchimp.com/legal/; Data Processing Agreement: https://mailchimp.com/legal/; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF). Further information: Special security measures: https://mailchimp.com/de/help/mailchimp-european-data-transfers/.

Surveys and Polls

We conduct surveys and polls in order to collect information for the respective communicated survey or poll purpose. The surveys and polls (hereinafter “polls”) conducted by us are evaluated anonymously. The processing of personal data takes place only to the extent necessary to provide and technically carry out the surveys (e.g., processing the IP address to display the survey in the user’s browser or to allow the survey to be resumed with a cookie).

• Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g., full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); Contact data (e.g., postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); Content data (e.g., textual or visual messages and posts and the information relating to them, such as authorship details or time of creation). Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions).
• Data subjects: Participants.
• Purposes of processing: Feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via online form). Surveys and questionnaires (e.g., surveys with input options, multiple-choice questions).
• Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Storage and Deletion.”
• Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• Thrive: WordPress themes and plugins; Service provider: operation on servers and/or computers under own data protection responsibility; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://thrivethemes.com. Privacy Policy: https://thrivethemes.com/privacy-policy/.

Web Analytics, Monitoring and Optimization

Web analytics (also referred to as “reach measurement”) is used to evaluate the visitor flows of our online offering and may include behavior, interests, or demographic information about visitors, such as age or gender, as pseudonymous values. With the help of reach analysis, we can, for example, recognize at what times our online offering or its functions or content are used most frequently or invite reuse. It also enables us to understand which areas require optimization.

In addition to web analytics, we may use testing procedures to, for example, test and optimize different versions of our online offering or its components.

Unless otherwise specified below, profiles—i.e., data summarized for a usage process—may be created and information stored in a browser or on a device and then read. The collected data includes, in particular, visited websites and elements used there as well as technical information such as the browser used, the computer system, and usage times. If users have consented to the collection of their location data to us or the providers of the services we use, location data may also be processed.

Furthermore, users’ IP addresses are stored. However, we use an IP masking procedure (i.e., pseudonymization by shortening the IP address) to protect users. Generally, no clear data of users (such as email addresses or names) are stored as part of web analytics, A/B testing, and optimization, but only pseudonyms. That is, neither we nor the providers of the software used know the actual identity of the users, only the data stored in their profiles for the respective processes.

Information on legal bases: If we ask users for their consent to the use of third-party providers, the legal basis for data processing is consent. Otherwise, user data is processed based on our legitimate interests (i.e., interest in efficient, economical, and recipient-friendly services). In this context, we also refer to the information on the use of cookies in this privacy policy.

• Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, involved persons).
• Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
• Purposes of processing: Reach measurement (e.g., access statistics, recognition of returning visitors). Profiles with user-related information (creating user profiles).
• Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Storage and Deletion.” Storage of cookies for up to 2 years (unless otherwise specified, cookies and similar storage methods may be stored on users’ devices for up to two years).
• Security measures: IP masking (pseudonymization of the IP address).
• Legal bases: Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• Matomo (without cookies): Matomo is privacy-friendly web analytics software used without cookies, which recognizes returning users with the help of a so-called “digital fingerprint” that is stored anonymously and changed every 24 hours; with the “digital fingerprint,” user movements within our online offering are recorded using pseudonymized IP addresses in combination with user-side browser settings so that conclusions about the identity of individual users are not possible. The data collected when using Matomo is only processed by us and is not shared with third parties; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR). Website: https://matomo.org/.

Customer Reviews and Rating Procedures

We participate in review and rating procedures in order to evaluate, optimize, and promote our services. If users rate us via the participating review platforms or procedures, or otherwise provide feedback, the terms and conditions and privacy policies of the respective providers also apply. As a rule, the rating also requires registration with the respective providers.

To ensure that reviewing persons have actually used our services, we may—with the customer’s consent—transmit the necessary data relating to the customer and the service used to the respective review platform (including name, email address, and order or article number). This data is used solely to verify the authenticity of the user.

• Types of data processed: Contract data (e.g., subject matter of the contract, duration, customer category); Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, involved persons).
• Data subjects: Service recipients and clients. Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
• Purposes of processing: Feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via online form). Marketing.
• Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• Google Customer Reviews: Service for collecting and/or displaying customer satisfaction and opinions; Service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.google.com/; Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF); Further information: As part of collecting customer reviews, an identification number as well as the time for the business transaction to be reviewed, for review requests sent directly to customers the customer’s email address as well as their country of residence and the review details themselves are processed; further information on the types of processing and data processed: https://business.safety.google/adsservices/. Data processing terms for Google advertising products: information on data processing terms between controllers and standard contractual clauses for third-country data transfers: https://business.safety.google/adscontrollerterms.
• Trustpilot: Review platform; Service provider: Trustpilot A/S, Pilestræde 58, 5, 1112 Copenhagen, Denmark; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://de.trustpilot.com. Privacy Policy: https://de.legal.trustpilot.com/for-reviewers/end-user-privacy-terms.

Presence on Social Networks (Social Media)

We maintain online presences within social networks and process user data in this context in order to communicate with users active there or to provide information about us.

Please note that user data may be processed outside the territory of the European Union. This may involve risks for users, for example because the enforcement of user rights could be made more difficult.

Furthermore, user data within social networks is generally processed for market research and advertising purposes. For example, usage profiles can be created based on user behavior and resulting interests. These profiles may in turn be used to display advertisements within and outside the networks that are presumably in line with users’ interests. Therefore, cookies are generally stored on users’ computers in which the usage behavior and interests of the users are stored. In addition, data may also be stored in the user profiles regardless of the devices used by users (especially if they are members of the respective platforms and are logged in there).

For a detailed description of the respective processing activities and the opt-out options, please refer to the privacy policies and information provided by the operators of the respective networks.

Also, in the case of requests for information and the exercise of data subject rights, we point out that these can be most effectively asserted with the providers. Only the respective providers have access to users’ data and can take direct action and provide information. If you still need help, you can contact us.

• Types of data processed: Contact data (e.g., postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); Content data (e.g., textual or visual messages and posts and the information relating to them, such as authorship details or time of creation); Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, involved persons).
• Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
• Purposes of processing: Communication; feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via online form). Public relations.
• Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Storage and Deletion.”
• Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR). Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• Instagram: Social network, allows sharing of photos and videos, commenting and favoriting posts, messaging, subscribing to profiles and pages; Service provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, Merrion Road, Dublin 4, D04 X2K5, Ireland; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.instagram.com; Privacy Policy: https://privacycenter.instagram.com/policy/. Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF).
• Facebook Pages: Profiles within the social network Facebook – 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 (so-called “Fanpage”). 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/privacy/policy/), as well as information about the devices users use (e.g., IP addresses, operating system, browser type, language settings, cookie data; see “Device Information” in the Facebook Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/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, so-called “Page Insights”, to page operators to give them insights into how people interact with their pages and the content associated with them. We have entered into a special agreement with Facebook (“Page Insights Controller Addendum”, https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/page_controller_addendum), which specifically sets out what security measures Facebook must observe and in which Facebook has agreed to fulfill the rights of data subjects (i.e., users can, for example, submit requests for information or deletion directly to Facebook). The rights of users (in particular to information, deletion, objection, and complaint to the competent supervisory authority) are not restricted by the agreements with Facebook. Further information can be found in the “Information on Page Insights” (https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/information_about_page_insights_data). Joint responsibility is limited to the collection and transfer of data to Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, a company based in the EU. The further processing of the data is the sole responsibility of Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, which in particular concerns the transfer of the data to the parent company Meta Platforms, Inc. in the USA; Service provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, Merrion Road, Dublin 4, D04 X2K5, Ireland; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.facebook.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy/. Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF).
• LinkedIn: Social network – We are jointly responsible with LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company for the collection (but not the further processing) of data from visitors that are used to create the “Page Insights” (statistics) of our LinkedIn profiles. This data includes information about the types of content users view or interact with, as well as the actions they take. In addition, details about the devices used are collected, such as IP addresses, operating system, browser type, language settings, and cookie data, as well as information from user profiles, such as job function, country, industry, hierarchical level, company size, and employment status. Information on the processing of user data by LinkedIn can be found in LinkedIn’s privacy notices: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy.
  We have entered into a special agreement with LinkedIn Ireland (“Page Insights Joint Controller Addendum”, https://legal.linkedin.com/pages-joint-controller-addendum), which specifically sets out what security measures LinkedIn must observe and in which LinkedIn has agreed to fulfill the rights of data subjects (i.e., users can, for example, submit requests for information or deletion directly to LinkedIn). The rights of users (in particular the right to information, deletion, objection, and complaint to the competent supervisory authority) are not restricted by the agreements with LinkedIn. Joint responsibility is limited to the collection and transfer of data to LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, a company based in the EU. Further processing of the data is the sole responsibility of LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, in particular with regard to the transfer of data to the parent company LinkedIn Corporation in the USA; Service provider: LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, Wilton Place, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.linkedin.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF). Opt-out: https://www.linkedin.com/psettings/guest-controls/retargeting-opt-out.
• TikTok: Social network, enables sharing of photos and videos, commenting and favoriting posts, messaging, subscribing to accounts; Service provider: TikTok Technology Limited, 10 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin, D02 T380, Ireland and TikTok Information Technologies UK Limited, Kaleidoscope, 4 Lindsey Street, London, United Kingdom, EC1A 9HP; Legal bases: Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR); Website: https://www.tiktok.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.tiktok.com/de/privacy-policy. Basis for third-country transfers: Standard Contractual Clauses (https://ads.tiktok.com/i18n/official/policy/jurisdiction-specific-terms).

Plug-ins and Embedded Functions and Content

We integrate function and content elements into our online offering that are obtained from the servers of their respective providers (hereinafter referred to as “third-party providers”). These may, for example, include graphics, videos, or city maps (hereinafter uniformly referred to as “content”).

Integration always requires that the third-party providers of this content process the IP address of the users, as they could not send the content to their browsers without the IP address. The IP address is thus necessary for the display of this content or functions. We make every effort to use only such content whose respective providers use the IP address solely to deliver the content. Third-party providers may also use so-called pixel tags (invisible graphics, also known as “web beacons”) for statistical or marketing purposes. Through the “pixel tags”, information such as visitor traffic on the pages of this website can be evaluated. The pseudonymous information may also be stored in cookies on users’ devices and may include, among other things, technical information about the browser and operating system, referring websites, visit times, and other details about the use of our online offering, as well as be linked to such information from other sources.

Information on legal bases: If we ask users for their consent to the use of third-party providers, the legal basis for data processing is consent. Otherwise, user data is processed on the basis of our legitimate interests (i.e., interest in efficient, economical, and recipient-friendly services). In this context, we also refer to the information on the use of cookies in this privacy policy.

• Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, involved persons).
• Data subjects: Users (e.g., website visitors, users of online services).
• Purposes of processing: Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness; marketing; profiles with user-related information (creating user profiles); reach measurement (e.g., access statistics, recognition of returning visitors); tracking (e.g., interest/behavior-based profiling, use of cookies). Audience building.
• Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Storage and Deletion.” Storage of cookies for up to 2 years (unless otherwise specified, cookies and similar storage methods may be stored on users’ devices for up to two years).
• Legal bases: Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures, and services:

• Google Fonts (self-hosted): Provision of font files for a user-friendly presentation of our online offering; Service provider: The Google Fonts are hosted on our server, no data is transmitted to Google; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).
• Font Awesome (self-hosted): Display of fonts and icons; Service provider: The Font Awesome icons are hosted on our server, no data is transmitted to the provider of Font Awesome; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).
• Instagram plug-ins and content: Instagram plug-ins and content—these may include, for example, content such as images, videos, or texts and buttons with which users can share content from this online offering within Instagram. – We are jointly responsible with Meta Platforms Ireland Limited for the collection or receipt in the context of a transfer (but not the further processing) of “event data” that Facebook collects via functions of Instagram (e.g., embedding functions for content) that are executed on our online offering, or receives in the context of a transfer for the following purposes: a) display of content and advertising information that presumably correspond to the interests of users; b) delivery of commercial and transactional messages (e.g., addressing users via Facebook Messenger); c) improvement of ad delivery and personalization of functions and content (e.g., improving the recognition of which content or advertising information presumably corresponds to users’ interests). We have entered into a special agreement with Facebook (“Controller Addendum”, https://www.facebook.com/legal/controller_addendum), which specifically sets out what 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, submit 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 is not carried out within the framework of joint responsibility but on the basis of a processing contract (“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 USA, on the basis of Standard Contractual Clauses (“Facebook-EU Data Transfer Addendum”, https://www.facebook.com/legal/EU_data_transfer_addendum). The rights of users (in particular to information, deletion, objection, and complaint to the competent supervisory authority) are not restricted by the agreements with Facebook; Service provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, Merrion Road, Dublin 4, D04 X2K5, Ireland; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.instagram.com. Privacy Policy: https://privacycenter.instagram.com/policy/.
• LinkedIn plug-ins and content: LinkedIn plug-ins and content—these may include, for example, content such as images, videos, or texts and buttons with which users can share content from this online offering within LinkedIn; Service provider: LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, Wilton Place, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal bases: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.linkedin.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy; Data Processing Agreement: https://legal.linkedin.com/dpa; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF). Opt-out: https://www.linkedin.com/psettings/guest-controls/retargeting-opt-out.
• YouTube videos: Videos embedded within our online offering that are stored on YouTube. The integration of these YouTube videos takes place via a special domain using the “youtube-nocookie” component in so-called “extended data protection mode.” In “extended data protection mode,” only information such as your IP address as well as information about the browser and your end device is stored on your end device in cookies or by comparable methods until the video is started, which YouTube needs for the output, control, and optimization of the video display. As soon as you play the videos, further information for analyzing user behavior as well as storage in the user profile and for the personalization of content and ads may be processed by YouTube. The storage period for cookies can be up to two years; Service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal bases: Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR); Website: https://www.youtube.com; Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF). Further information: https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/171780?hl=de-DE#zippy=%2Cturn-on-privacy-enhanced-mode%2Cerweiterten-datenschutzmodus-aktivieren.

Amendment and Updates

We kindly ask you to regularly inform yourself about the content of our privacy policy. We will adapt the privacy policy as soon as changes to our data processing activities make this necessary. We will inform you if such changes require cooperation on your part (e.g., consent) or other individual notification.

If we provide addresses and contact information of companies and organizations in this privacy policy, please note that addresses may change over time and we ask you to check the information before contacting them.

Definitions of Terms

In this section, you will find an overview of the terms used in this privacy policy. Where the terms are defined by law, their legal definitions apply. The following explanations are primarily intended to aid understanding.

• Inventory data: Inventory data comprises essential information necessary for the identification and management of contracting parties, user accounts, profiles, and similar assignments. These data may include personal and demographic details such as names, contact information (addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses), dates of birth, and specific identifiers (user IDs). Inventory data forms the basis for any formal interaction between individuals and services, institutions, or systems by enabling clear assignment and communication.
• Content data: Content data includes information generated in the course of creating, editing, and publishing content of any kind. This category of data may include texts, images, videos, audio files, and other multimedia content published on various platforms and media. Content data is not limited to the actual content but also includes metadata that provides information about the content itself, such as tags, descriptions, author information, and publication dates.
• Contact data: Contact data is essential information that enables communication with individuals or organizations. This includes, among other things, telephone numbers, postal addresses and email addresses, as well as communication channels such as social media handles and instant messaging identifiers.
• Conversion measurement: Conversion measurement (also referred to as “visit action evaluation”) is a procedure used to determine the effectiveness of marketing measures. Typically, a cookie is stored on users’ devices within the websites where marketing activities take place and then retrieved again on the target website. For example, this allows us to understand whether the ads we place on other websites were successful.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): The purpose of processing data by Artificial Intelligence (AI) includes the automated analysis and processing of user data in order to identify patterns, make predictions, and improve the efficiency and quality of our services. This involves the collection, cleansing, and structuring of data, the training and application of AI models, as well as the ongoing review and optimization of results, and is carried out exclusively with the consent of users or on the basis of statutory authorization.
• Meta, communication, and procedural data: Meta, communication, and procedural data are categories that contain information on how data is processed, transmitted, and managed. Metadata, also known as data about data, includes information that describes the context, origin, and structure of other data. It may contain information on file size, creation date, author of a document, and change histories. Communication data records the exchange of information between users via various channels, such as email traffic, call logs, messages on social networks, and chat histories, including the people involved, time stamps, and transmission paths. Procedural data describes the processes and workflows within systems or organizations, including workflow documentation, logs of transactions and activities, as well as audit logs used to track and verify operations.
• Usage data: Usage data refers to information that records how users interact with digital products, services, or platforms. This data includes a wide range of information showing how users use applications, which functions they prefer, how long they spend on certain pages, and the paths they navigate through an application. Usage data may also include the frequency of use, activity time stamps, IP addresses, device information, and location data. They are particularly valuable for analyzing user behavior, optimizing user experiences, personalizing content, and improving products or services. In addition, usage data plays a crucial role in identifying trends, preferences, and potential problem areas within digital offerings.
• Personal data: “Personal data” means any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person (hereinafter “data subject”); an identifiable natural person is one who 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., cookie), or to one or more factors specific to the physical, physiological, genetic, mental, economic, cultural, or social identity of that natural person.
• Profiles with user-related information: The processing of “profiles with user-related information,” or simply “profiles,” includes any kind of automated processing of personal data which consists of 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 interactions with websites and their content, etc.). Cookies and web beacons are often used for profiling purposes.
• Log data: Log data is information about events or activities that have been logged in a system or network. This data typically contains information such as time stamps, IP addresses, user actions, error messages, and other details regarding the use or operation of a system. Log data is often used to analyze system issues, monitor security, or produce performance reports.
• Reach measurement: Reach measurement (also referred to as web analytics) is used to evaluate the visitor flows of an online offering and may include the behavior or interests of visitors in certain information, such as website content. Using reach analysis, operators of online offerings can, for example, recognize at what times users visit their websites and what content they are interested in. This allows them to better tailor the content of websites to the needs of their visitors. Pseudonymous cookies and web beacons are often used for the purposes of reach analysis, to recognize returning visitors and thus enable more precise analyses of the use of an online offering.
• Tracking: “Tracking” refers to the ability to trace user behavior across multiple online offerings. Typically, behavioral and interest information regarding the online offerings used is stored in cookies or on the servers of the providers of the tracking technologies (so-called profiling). This information can then be used, for example, to display ads to users that are likely to match their interests.
• Controller: The “controller” is the natural or legal person, authority, institution, or other body which, 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 which is performed on personal data, whether or not by automated means. The term is broad and covers practically any handling of data, whether collecting, evaluating, storing, transferring, or deleting.
• Contract data: Contract data is specific information relating to the formalization of an agreement between two or more parties. It documents the terms under which services or products are provided, exchanged, or sold. This category of data is essential for the management and fulfillment of contractual obligations and includes both the identification of the contracting parties and the specific terms and conditions of the agreement. Contract data may include the start and end dates of the contract, the type of agreed services or products, price agreements, payment terms, termination rights, renewal options, and special terms or clauses. They serve as the legal basis for the relationship between the parties and are crucial for clarifying rights and obligations, enforcing claims, and resolving disputes.
• Audience building: Audience building (in English “Custom Audiences”) refers to the process of determining audiences for advertising purposes, such as displaying ads. For example, it can be inferred from a user’s interest in certain products or topics on the internet that the user may be interested in ads for similar products or the online shop where they viewed the products. “Lookalike Audiences” (or similar audiences) refers to showing content to users whose profiles or interests are presumably similar to those of users for whom the profiles were created. For the purposes of creating custom and lookalike audiences, cookies and web beacons are typically used.