privacy policy

Table of contents

• Introduction and Overview
• scope
• legal basis
• contact details of the person responsible
• storage period
• Rights under the General Data Protection Regulation
• security of data processing
• communication
• order processing agreement (AVV)
• cookies
• customer data
• registration
• Webhosting Introduction
• Web Analytics Introduction
• Social Media Introduction
• Blogs and Publication Media Introduction
• Cookie Consent Management Platform Introduction
• Security & Anti-Spam
• Audio & Video Introduction
• web design introduction
• Online Map Services Introduction
• Content Search Provider Introduction
• Other Introduction
• explanation of terms used
• closing remarks

Introduction and Overview

We have written this privacy policy (version 20.10.2024-122893266) to provide you with the information you need in accordance with the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 and applicable national laws, which personal data (data for short) we as the controller - and the processors commissioned by us (e.g. providers) - process, will process in the future and what legal options you have. The terms used are to be understood as gender-neutral.
In short: We will provide you with comprehensive information about the data we process about you.

Privacy statements usually sound very technical and use legal jargon. This privacy statement, on the other hand, is intended to describe the most important things to you as simply and transparently as possible. As far as it is conducive to transparency, technical terms explained in a reader-friendly manner, links to further information are provided and graphics used. We are informing you in clear and simple language that we only process personal data in the context of our business activities if there is a corresponding legal basis. This is certainly not possible if you provide explanations that are as brief, unclear and legal-technical as possible, as is often standard on the Internet when it comes to data protection. I hope you find the following explanations interesting and informative and that there may be some information that you did not know before.
If you still have any questions, please contact the responsible body named below or in the imprint, follow the links provided and view further information on third-party websites. You can of course also find our contact details in the imprint.

scope

This privacy policy applies to all personal data processed by us in the company and to all personal data processed by companies commissioned by us (contract processors). By personal data we mean information within the meaning of Art. 4 No. 1 GDPR, such as a person's name, email address and postal address. The processing of personal data ensures that we can offer and bill for our services and products, whether online or offline. The scope of this privacy policy includes:

• all online presences (websites, online shops) that we operate
• social media presence and email communication
• mobile apps for smartphones and other devices

In short: This privacy policy applies to all areas in which personal data is processed in a structured manner within the company via the channels mentioned. If we enter into legal relationships with you outside of these channels, we will inform you separately if necessary.

legal basis

In the following privacy policy we provide you with transparent information on the legal principles and regulations, i.e. the legal basis of the General Data Protection Regulation, which enable us to process personal data.
As regards EU law, we refer to REGULATION (EU) 2016/679 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 27 April 2016. You can of course consult this EU General Data Protection Regulation online on EUR-Lex, the gateway to EU law, at https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/ALL/?uri=celex%3A32016R0679 read it.

We only process your data if at least one of the following conditions applies:

1. consent (Article 6 paragraph 1 letter a GDPR): You have given us your consent to process data for a specific purpose. An example would be the storage of the data you entered in a contact form.
2. Contract (Article 6 paragraph 1 letter b GDPR): We process your data in order to fulfil a contract or pre-contractual obligations with you. For example, if we conclude a purchase contract with you, we require personal information in advance.
3. Legal obligation (Article 6 paragraph 1 lit. c GDPR): We process your data if we are subject to a legal obligation. For example, we are legally obliged to keep invoices for accounting purposes. These usually contain personal data.
4. Legitimate Interests (Article 6 paragraph 1 letter f GDPR): In the case of legitimate interests that do not restrict your fundamental rights, we reserve the right to process personal data. For example, we need to process certain data in order to operate our website securely and economically efficiently. This processing is therefore a legitimate interest.

Other conditions such as the taking of recordings in the public interest and the exercise of public authority as well as the protection of vital interests do not generally apply to us. If such a legal basis should be applicable, it will be indicated in the appropriate place.

In addition to the EU regulation, national laws also apply:

• In Austria This is the Federal Law on the Protection of Natural Persons with regard to the Processing of Personal Data (Data Protection Act), short DSG.
• In Germany this applies Federal Data Protection Act, short BDSG.

If other regional or national laws apply, we will inform you about them in the following sections.

contact details of the person responsible

If you have any questions about data protection or the processing of personal data, you will find the contact details of the responsible person or body below:
Paul Weindl,
Vogtgasse 14/ 4/ 23
1140 Vienna,

E-mail: info@365austria.com
Phone: +43 664 1861831
Imprint: https://365austria.com/impressum/

storage period

Our general rule is that we only store personal data for as long as it is absolutely necessary to provide our services and products. This means that we delete personal data as soon as the reason for data processing no longer exists. In some cases, we are legally obliged to store certain data even after the original purpose no longer applies, for example for accounting purposes.

If you wish to have your data deleted or withdraw your consent to data processing, the data will be deleted as quickly as possible and unless there is an obligation to store it.

We will inform you below about the specific duration of each data processing operation, provided we have further information on this.

Rights under the General Data Protection Regulation

In accordance with Articles 13 and 14 of the GDPR, we inform you of the following rights to which you are entitled in order to ensure fair and transparent data processing:

• According to Article 15 GDPR, you have the right to know whether we process your data. If this is the case, you have the right to receive a copy of the data and to be informed of the following information:
  • for what purposes we carry out the processing;
  • the categories, i.e. the types of data that are processed;
  • who receives this data and, if the data is transferred to third countries, how security can be guaranteed;
  • how long the data is stored;
  • the existence of the right to rectification, erasure or restriction of processing and the right to object to processing;
  • that you can complain to a supervisory authority (links to these authorities can be found below);
  • the origin of the data if we did not collect it from you;
  • whether profiling is carried out, i.e. whether data is automatically evaluated in order to create a personal profile of you.
• You have the right to rectification of data according to Article 16 GDPR, which means that we must correct data if you find any errors.
• According to Article 17 GDPR, you have the right to erasure (“right to be forgotten”), which specifically means that you can request that your data be deleted.
• According to Article 18 GDPR, you have the right to restrict processing, which means that we may only store the data but not use it further.
• According to Article 20 GDPR, you have the right to data portability, which means that we will provide you with your data in a common format upon request.
• According to Article 21 GDPR, you have the right to object, which, once enforced, will result in a change in the processing.
  • If the processing of your data is based on Article 6 Paragraph 1 Letter e (public interest, exercise of official authority) or Article 6 Paragraph 1 Letter f (legitimate interest), you can object to the processing. We will then check as quickly as possible whether we can legally comply with this objection.
  • If data is used to conduct direct advertising, you can object to this type of data processing at any time. We may no longer use your data for direct marketing after this.
  • If data is used to carry out profiling, you can object to this type of data processing at any time. We may no longer use your data for profiling after this.
• According to Article 22 GDPR, you may have the right not to be subjected to a decision based solely on automated processing (e.g. profiling).
• According to Article 77 of the GDPR, you have the right to complain. This means that you can complain to the data protection authority at any time if you believe that the processing of personal data violates the GDPR.

In short: You have rights – do not hesitate to contact the responsible body listed above!

If you believe that the processing of your data violates data protection law or that your data protection rights have been violated in any other way, you can complain to the supervisory authority. In Austria, this is the Data Protection Authority, whose website you can find at https://www.dsb.gv.at/ In Germany, there is a data protection officer for each federal state. For further information, please contact the Federal Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information (BfDI) The following local data protection authority is responsible for our company:

Austrian Data Protection Authority

Director: Dr. Matthias Schmidl
Address: Barichgasse 40-42, 1030 Vienna
Phone number: +43 1 52 152-0
E-mail address: dsb@dsb.gv.at
Website: https://www.dsb.gv.at/

security of data processing

We have implemented both technical and organizational measures to protect personal data. Where possible, we encrypt or pseudonymize personal data. In this way, we make it as difficult as possible for third parties to derive personal information from our data.

Art. 25 GDPR speaks here of “data protection through technical design and through data protection-friendly default settings” and means that both software (e.g. forms) and hardware (e.g. access to the server room) are always considered and appropriate measures are taken. In the following, we will go into specific measures where necessary.

TLS encryption with https

TLS, encryption and https sound very technical and they are. We use HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) to transfer data securely over the Internet.
This means that the complete transmission of all data from your browser to our web server is secured – no one can “eavesdrop”.

We have thus introduced an additional security layer and fulfilled data protection through technology design (Article 25 paragraph 1 GDPRBy using TLS (Transport Layer Security), an encryption protocol for secure data transmission on the Internet, we can ensure the protection of confidential data.
You can recognize the use of this data transfer security by the small lock symbol top left of the browser, to the left of the Internet address (e.g. examplepage.com) and the use of the https scheme (instead of http) as part of our Internet address.
If you want to know more about encryption, we recommend doing a Google search for “Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure wiki” to get good links to further information.

communication

If you contact us and communicate by telephone, email or online form, personal data may be processed.

The data will be processed to process and handle your question and the related business transaction. The data will be stored for as long as required by law.

affected persons

The above-mentioned processes affect everyone who contacts us via the communication channels we provide.

phone

When you call us, the call data is stored pseudonymously on the respective device and by the telecommunications provider used. In addition, data such as name and telephone number can be sent by email afterwards and stored to answer your query. The data is deleted as soon as the business transaction has ended and legal requirements permit it.

e-mail

If you communicate with us by email, data may be saved on the respective device (computer, laptop, smartphone, etc.) and data may be saved on the email server. The data will be deleted as soon as the business transaction has been completed and legal requirements permit it.

online forms

If you communicate with us using an online form, data will be saved on our web server and, if necessary, forwarded to an email address of ours. The data will be deleted as soon as the business transaction has been completed and legal requirements permit it.

legal basis

The processing of the data is based on the following legal bases:

• Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent): You give us your consent to store your data and to continue to use it for the purposes related to the business case;
• Art. 6 (1) (b) GDPR (contract): There is a need to fulfil a contract with you or a processor such as the telephone provider or we have to process the data for pre-contractual activities, such as preparing an offer;
• Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR (legitimate interests): We want to handle customer inquiries and business communication in a professional setting. For this, certain technical facilities such as email programs, exchange servers and mobile phone operators are necessary in order to be able to conduct communication efficiently.

order processing agreement (AVV)

In this section, we would like to explain to you what a data processing agreement is and why it is needed. Because the word “data processing agreement” is quite a tongue twister, we will often use the acronym AVV in the text. Like most companies, we do not work alone, but also use the services of other companies or individuals ourselves. By involving various companies or service providers, we may pass on personal data for processing. These partners then act as data processors with whom we conclude a contract, the so-called data processing agreement (AVV). The most important thing for you to know is that the processing of your personal data is carried out exclusively in accordance with our instructions and must be regulated by the AVV.

Who are data processors?

As a company and website owner, we are responsible for all data that we process from you. In addition to the responsible parties, there may also be so-called processors. This includes any company or person that processes personal data on our behalf. To be more precise and according to the GDPR definition: any natural or legal person, public authority, institution or other body that processes personal data on our behalf is considered a processor. Processors can therefore be service providers such as hosting or cloud providers, payment or newsletter providers or large companies such as Google or Microsoft.

To better understand the terminology, here is an overview of the three roles in the GDPR:

affected person (You as a customer or interested party) → responsible person (we as a company and client) → processor (service providers such as web hosts or cloud providers)

Content of a data processing contract

As already mentioned above, we have concluded an AVV with our partners who act as data processors. This stipulates above all that the data processor processes the data to be processed exclusively in accordance with the GDPR. The contract must be concluded in writing, but in this context, electronic contract conclusion is also considered "written". The personal data is only processed on the basis of the contract. The contract must contain the following:

• commitment to us as responsible parties
• Duties and rights of the controller
• categories of data subjects
• type of personal data
• type and purpose of data processing
• Subject and duration of data processing
• place of data processing

The contract also contains all the obligations of the processor. The most important obligations are:

• measures to ensure data security
• possible technical and organizational measures to protect the rights of the data subject
• to maintain a data processing register
• to cooperate with the data protection supervisory authority upon request
• to carry out a risk analysis with regard to the personal data received
• Sub-processors may only be commissioned with the written permission of the controller

You can find out what such an AVV looks like at https://www.wko.at/service/wirtschaftsrecht-gewerberecht/eu-dsgvo-mustervertrag-auftragsverarbeitung.html A sample contract is presented here.

cookies

What are cookies?

Our website uses HTTP cookies to store user-specific data.
Below we explain what cookies are and why they are used so that you can better understand the following privacy policy.

Whenever you surf the Internet, you use a browser. Well-known browsers include Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge. Most websites store small text files in your browser. These files are called cookies.

One thing cannot be denied: cookies are really useful little helpers. Almost all websites use cookies. To be more precise, they are HTTP cookies, as there are other cookies for other areas of application. HTTP cookies are small files that are stored on your computer by our website. These cookie files are automatically stored in the cookie folder, the "brain" of your browser. A cookie consists of a name and a value. When defining a cookie, one or more attributes must also be specified.

Cookies store certain user data about you, such as language or personal page settings. When you visit our site again, your browser sends the "user-related" information back to our site. Thanks to the cookies, our website knows who you are and offers you the settings you are used to. In some browsers, each cookie has its own file, in others, such as Firefox, all cookies are stored in a single file.

The following graphic shows a possible interaction between a web browser such as Chrome and the web server. The web browser requests a website and receives a cookie back from the server, which the browser uses again when another page is requested.

There are both first-party cookies and third-party cookies. First-party cookies are created directly by our site, third-party cookies are created by partner websites (eg Google Analytics). Each cookie must be evaluated individually, as each cookie stores different data. The expiration time of a cookie also varies from a few minutes to a few years. Cookies are not software programs and do not contain viruses, Trojans or other "malware". Cookies also cannot access information on your PC.

For example, cookie data can look like this:

Name: _ga
Value: GA1.2.1326744211.152122893266-9
Purpose of use: differentiation of website visitors
Expiration date: after 2 years

A browser should be able to support these minimum sizes:

• At least 4096 bytes per cookie
• At least 50 cookies per domain
• At least 3000 cookies in total

What types of cookies are there?

The question of which cookies we use in particular depends on the services used and is clarified in the following sections of the privacy policy. At this point we would like to briefly explain the different types of HTTP cookies.

There are 4 types of cookies:

Essential Cookies
These cookies are necessary to ensure basic functions of the website. For example, these cookies are needed when a user puts a product in the shopping cart, then continues browsing on other pages and only later proceeds to checkout. These cookies do not delete the shopping cart, even if the user closes their browser window.

Purposeful cookies
These cookies collect information about user behavior and whether the user receives any error messages. In addition, these cookies are also used to measure the loading time and behavior of the website in different browsers.

Targeted cookies
These cookies improve user experience. For example, entered locations, font sizes or form data are saved.

advertising cookies
These cookies are also called targeting cookies. They are used to deliver individually tailored advertising to the user. This can be very practical, but also very annoying.

Typically, when you first visit a website, you will be asked which of these types of cookies you would like to allow. And of course, this decision will also be stored in a cookie.

If you would like to know more about cookies and are not afraid of technical documentation, we recommend https://datatracker.ietf.org/doc/html/rfc6265, the Request for Comments from the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) called “HTTP State Management Mechanism”.

Purpose of processing via cookies

The purpose ultimately depends on the cookie in question. You can find more details below or from the manufacturer of the software that sets the cookie.

Which data is processed?

Cookies are little helpers for many different tasks. Unfortunately, it is not possible to generalize which data is stored in cookies, but we will inform you about the data processed or stored in the following data protection declaration.

storage period of cookies

The storage period depends on the respective cookie and is specified below. Some cookies are deleted after less than an hour, others can remain stored on a computer for several years.

You also have influence over the storage period. You can delete all cookies manually at any time via your browser (see also “Right of objection” below). Furthermore, cookies based on consent will be deleted at the latest after you revoke your consent, whereby the legality of storage remains unaffected until then.

Right of objection – how can I delete cookies?

You decide how and whether you want to use cookies. Regardless of which service or website the cookies come from, you always have the option of deleting, deactivating or only partially allowing cookies. For example, you can block third-party cookies but allow all other cookies.

If you want to find out which cookies have been stored in your browser, if you want to change or delete cookie settings, you can find this in your browser settings:

Chrome: Delete, enable and manage cookies in Chrome

Safari: Managing cookies and website data with Safari

Firefox: Clear cookies to remove data that websites have stored on your computer

Internet Explorer: Deleting and managing cookies

Microsoft Edge: Delete and manage cookies

If you do not want cookies at all, you can set up your browser so that it always informs you when a cookie is about to be placed. This way you can decide for each individual cookie whether you want to accept the cookie or not. The procedure varies depending on the browser. The best thing to do is to search for instructions on Google using the search term “delete cookies Chrome” or “deactivate cookies Chrome” in the case of a Chrome browser.

legal basis

The so-called “Cookie Guidelines” have been in place since 2009. They state that storing cookies is a consent (Article 6 (1) (a) GDPR) is required of you. However, there are still very different reactions to these guidelines within the EU countries. In Austria, however, this directive was implemented in Section 165 (3) of the Telecommunications Act (2021). In Germany, the cookie guidelines were not implemented as national law. Instead, this directive was largely implemented in Section 15 (3) of the Telemedia Act (TMG), which has been replaced by the Digital Services Act (DDG) since May 2024.

For absolutely necessary cookies, even if no consent has been given, legitimate interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR), which in most cases are of an economic nature. We want to give visitors to the website a pleasant user experience and for this certain cookies are often absolutely necessary.

If cookies that are not absolutely necessary are used, this only happens with your consent. The legal basis in this respect is Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR.

In the following sections you will be informed in more detail about the use of cookies, provided that the software used uses cookies.

customer data

What is customer data?

In order to be able to offer our service or our contractual services, we also process data from our customers and business partners. This data always includes personal data. Customer data is all information that is processed on the basis of a contractual or pre-contractual collaboration in order to be able to provide the services offered. Customer data is therefore all information that we collect and process about our customers.

Why do we process customer data?

There are many reasons why we collect and process customer data. The most important is that we simply need various data to provide our services. Sometimes your email address is enough, but if you purchase a product or service, we also need data such as your name, address, bank details or contract details. We also use the data for marketing and sales optimization so that we can improve our service for our customers overall. Another important point is our customer service, which is always very important to us. We want you to be able to come to us at any time with questions about our offers and for that we need at least your email address.

Which data is processed?

At this point, the exact data that is stored can only be shown in categories. This always depends on the services you receive from us. In some cases, you only give us your email address so that we can, for example, contact you or answer your questions. In other cases, you purchase a product or service from us and for this we need significantly more information, such as your contact details, payment details and contract details.

Here is a list of possible data that we receive and process from you:

• name
• contact address
• E-mail address
• phone number
• birth date
• Payment data (invoices, bank details, payment history, etc.)
• contract data (duration, content)
• Usage data (websites visited, access data, etc.)
• metadata (IP address, device information)

How long is the data stored?

As soon as we no longer need the customer data to fulfill our contractual obligations and our purposes and the data is also not required for possible warranty and liability obligations, we delete the relevant customer data. This is the case, for example, when a business contract ends. After that, the limitation period is usually 3 years, although longer periods are possible in individual cases. Of course, we also adhere to the statutory retention periods. Your customer data will definitely not be passed on to third parties unless you have explicitly given your consent.

legal basis

The legal basis for the processing of your data is Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent), Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (contract or pre-contractual measures), Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interests) and in special cases (e.g. medical services) Art. 9 Para. 2 lit. a. GDPR (processing of special categories).

In the case of the protection of vital interests, data processing is carried out in accordance with Art. 9 (2) (c) GDPR. For the purposes of healthcare, occupational medicine, medical diagnostics, care or treatment in the health or social sector or for the administration of systems and services in the health or social sector, personal data is processed in accordance with Art. 9 (2) (h) GDPR. If you voluntarily provide special category data, processing is carried out on the basis of Art. 9 (2) (a) GDPR.

registration

If you register with us, personal data may be processed if you enter personally identifiable data or if data such as your IP address is recorded during processing. You can read what we mean by the rather cumbersome term “personal data” below.

Please only enter data that we need for registration and for which you have the approval of a third party if you are registering on behalf of a third party. If possible, use a secure password that you do not use anywhere else and an email address that you check regularly.

Below we will inform you about the exact type of data processing, because we want you to feel comfortable with us!

What is registration?

When you register, we collect certain data from you and then allow you to easily log in online later and use your account with us. An account with us has the advantage that you do not have to enter everything again each time. This saves time, effort and ultimately prevents errors in the provision of our services.

Why do we process personal data?

In short, we process personal data to enable the creation and use of an account with us.
If we didn't do that, you would have to enter all the data every time, wait for approval from us and enter everything again. We and many, many customers wouldn't like that. How would you feel about that?

Which data is processed?

All data that you provided during registration, when logging in or when managing your data in your account.

When you register, we process the following types of data:

• First name
• Last name
• E-mail address
• company name
• street + house number
• Place of residence
• Postal code
• country

When you register, we process the data you enter when registering, such as your user name and password, and data collected in the background, such as device information and IP addresses.

When you use your account, we process data that you enter during your account use and which is created when you use our services.

storage period

We store the data you enter at least for as long as the account linked to the data exists and is used with us, as long as contractual obligations exist between us and, when the contract ends, until the respective claims arising from it have expired. In addition, we store your data for as long as and to the extent that we are subject to legal obligations to store it. After that, we keep accounting documents related to the contract (invoices, contract documents, bank statements, etc.) and other relevant business documents for the legally prescribed period (usually several years).

right of objection

You have registered, entered data and would like to revoke the processing? No problem. As you can read above, the rights according to the General Data Protection Regulation also apply during and after registration, login or account with us. Contact the person responsible for data protection listed above to exercise your rights. If you already have an account with us, you can easily view or manage your data and texts in your account.

legal basis

By completing the registration process, you are contacting us in order to conclude a user agreement via our platform (although this does not automatically result in a payment obligation).You invest time to enter data and register and we offer you our services after logging into our system and viewing your customer account. We also meet our contractual obligations. Finally, we must keep registered users informed of important changes by email. This means that Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (implementation of pre-contractual measures, fulfillment of a contract) applies.

If necessary, we will also obtain your consent, e.g. if you voluntarily provide more data than is absolutely necessary or if we are allowed to send you advertising. Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent) therefore applies.

We also have a legitimate interest in knowing who we are dealing with in order to contact you in certain cases. We also need to know who is using our services and whether they are being used in the way our terms of use stipulate, so Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR (legitimate interests) applies.

Note: the following sections must be checked by users (as required):

Registration with real name

Since we need to know who we are dealing with in business operations, registration is only possible with your real name (full name) and not with pseudonyms.

registration with pseudonyms

Pseudonyms can be used when registering, which means that you do not have to register with us using your real name. This ensures that we cannot process your name.

storage of the IP address

During registration, login and account usage, we store the IP address in the background for security reasons in order to be able to determine lawful use.

Public Profile

The user profiles are publicly visible, which means that parts of the profile can be viewed on the Internet without providing a user name and password.

2-factor authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) offers additional security when logging in, as it prevents people from logging in without a smartphone, for example. This technical measure to secure your account protects you from the loss of data or unauthorized access, even if your user name and password are known. You will find out which 2FA is used during registration, login and in the account itself.

Webhosting Introduction

What is web hosting?

When you visit websites these days, certain information - including personal data - is automatically created and saved, including on this website. This data should be processed as sparingly as possible and only with justification. By website we mean the entirety of all web pages on a domain, ie everything from the start page (homepage) to the very last subpage (like this one). By domain we mean example.de or musterbeispiel.com, for example.

When you want to view a website on a computer, tablet or smartphone, you use a program called a web browser. You probably know some web browsers by name: Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox and Apple Safari. We call them browsers or web browsers for short.

To display the website, the browser must connect to another computer where the website code is stored: the web server. Operating a web server is a complicated and time-consuming task, which is why it is usually handled by professional providers. They offer web hosting and ensure that website data is stored reliably and error-free. A lot of technical terms, but please stay tuned, it gets even better!

When the browser connects to your computer (desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphone) and during data transfer to and from the web server, personal data may be processed. On the one hand, your computer stores data, and on the other hand, the web server must also store data for a while to ensure proper operation.

A picture is worth a thousand words, so the following graphic illustrates the interaction between the browser, the Internet and the hosting provider.

Why do we process personal data?

The purposes of data processing are:

1. Professional hosting of the website and security of the operation
2. to maintain operational and IT security
3. Anonymous evaluation of access behavior to improve our offer and, if necessary, for criminal prosecution or the pursuit of claims

Which data is processed?

Even while you are currently visiting our website, our web server, which is the computer on which this website is stored, usually automatically stores data such as

• the complete Internet address (URL) of the website accessed
• Browser and browser version (e.g. Chrome 87)
• the operating system used (e.g. Windows 10)
• the address (URL) of the previously visited page (referrer URL) (e.g. https://www.beispielquellsite.de/vondabinichgekommen/)
• the hostname and IP address of the device from which access is made (e.g. COMPUTERNAME and 194.23.43.121)
• date and time
• in files, the so-called web server log files

How long is data stored?

As a rule, the above data is stored for two weeks and then automatically deleted. We do not pass this data on, but cannot rule out that this data will be viewed by authorities in the event of illegal behavior.

In short: Your visit is logged by our provider (company that runs our website on special computers (servers)), but we do not pass on your data without your consent!

legal basis

The legality of the processing of personal data in the context of web hosting arises from Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR (protection of legitimate interests), because the use of professional hosting with a provider is necessary in order to present the company on the Internet in a secure and user-friendly manner and to be able to pursue attacks and claims arising from this if necessary.

There is usually a contract for order processing in accordance with Art. 28 f. GDPR between us and the hosting provider, which ensures compliance with data protection and guarantees data security.

netcup privacy policy

What is netcup?

We use the web hosting service from netcup for our website. The service provider is the German company netcup GmbH, Daimlerstraße 25, D-76185 Karlsruhe, Germany.

netcup was founded as a sole proprietorship by Felix Preuß and continued as a GmbH, in which Preuß was managing director until 2008. The company has been part of the Anexia Group since 2016 and Alexander Windbichler and Oliver Werner are now managing directors. netcup is known as an environmentally conscious Internet service provider and relies on 100% green electricity. The company attaches great importance to customer satisfaction and quality management in order to avoid problems or possible technical errors or to resolve them quickly. All netcup products are also designed for reliability and data security.

Why do we use netcup?

One thing is certain: we want to offer a fast and secure website. Only then can you have a smooth and pleasant experience on our website. Your data should be safe and individual pages should appear quickly on your screen. To ensure this, we need a trustworthy web hosting provider. With netcup we have found a partner who absolutely meets our demands for professional web hosting. IT and operational security is a top priority at netcup and the new technologies give us a secure and fast website.

Which data does netcup process?

By storing your IP address, netcup also processes personal data. When you visit our website, the following data about you or your computer is also stored by netcup:

• the previously visited website (also called referrer)
• the requested website (in this case our website)
• browser type and browser version
• Your operating system and device type
• time of page access

The data collected is used to increase the security of the website, to detect possible errors and also to perform anonymous statistical analyses.

How long and where is the data stored?

The above data is stored in so-called log files. This data is stored on the netcup servers and automatically deleted after 14 days if it is no longer required for the purpose. In principle, data can also be stored for longer than is necessary for the purpose, for example if it is required to defend against or assert claims.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

You have the right to information, correction or deletion and restriction of the processing of your personal data at any time. You can also revoke your consent to the processing of the data at any time.

legal basis

We have a legitimate interest in using netcup to offer our online service. The legal basis for this is Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR (legitimate interests).

You can find out more about the data processed through the use of netcup in the privacy policy on https://www.netcup.de/kontakt/datenschutzerklaerung.php.

Data Processing Agreement (AVV) netcup

We have concluded a data processing agreement (DPA) with netcup in accordance with Article 28 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). You can read what a DPA is exactly and, above all, what must be included in a DPA in our general section “DPA”.

This contract is required by law because netcup processes personal data on our behalf. It clarifies that netcup may only process data that it receives from us in accordance with our instructions and must comply with the GDPR. The link to the data processing contract (AVV) can be found at https://www.netcup-wiki.de/wiki/Zusatzvereinbarung_zur_Auftragsverarbeitung.

Web Analytics Introduction

What is Web Analytics?

We use software on our website to evaluate the behavior of website visitors, known as web analytics or web analysis for short. This collects data that the respective analytics tool provider (also known as tracking tool) stores, manages and processes. The data is used to create analyses of user behavior on our website and makes it available to us as website operators. In addition, most tools offer various testing options. For example, we can test which offers or content are most popular with our visitors. To do this, we show you two different offers for a limited period of time. After the test (so-called A/B test), we know which product or content our website visitors find more interesting. For such testing procedures, as for other analytics procedures, user profiles can also be created and the data stored in cookies.

Why do we use web analytics?

We have a clear goal in mind with our website: we want to provide the best web offering on the market for our industry. To achieve this goal, we want to offer the best and most interesting offering on the one hand and, on the other hand, make sure that you feel completely comfortable on our website. With the help of web analysis tools, we can take a closer look at the behavior of our website visitors and then improve our web offering for you and us accordingly. For example, we can see how old our visitors on average are, where they come from, when our website is visited most often or which content or products are particularly popular. All of this information helps us to optimize the website and thus adapt it as best as possible to your needs, interests and wishes.

Which data is processed?

Which data is stored depends, of course, on the analysis tools used. However, as a rule, information is stored, for example, which content you view on our website, which buttons or links you click, when you visit a page, which browser you use, which device (PC, tablet, smartphone, etc.) you use to visit the website or which computer system you use. If you have agreed that location data may also be collected, this can also be processed by the web analysis tool provider.

Your IP address is also stored. According to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), IP addresses are personal data. However, your IP address is usually stored pseudonymously (i.e. in an unrecognizable and shortened form). For the purposes of testing, web analysis and web optimization, no direct data such as your name, age, address or email address is stored. All of this data, if collected, is stored pseudonymously. This means that you cannot be identified as a person.

The following example shows schematically how Google Analytics works as an example of client-based web tracking with JavaScript code.

How long the respective data is stored always depends on the provider. Some cookies only store data for a few minutes or until you leave the website again, other cookies can store data for several years.

duration of data processing

We will inform you about the duration of data processing below, provided we have further information on this. In general, we only process personal data for as long as it is absolutely necessary to provide our services and products. If it is required by law, such as in the case of accounting, this storage period can also be exceeded.

right of objection

You also have the right and the option to revoke your consent to the use of cookies or third-party providers at any time. This works either via our cookie management tool or via other opt-out functions. For example, you can also prevent data collection through cookies by managing, deactivating or deleting cookies in your browser.

legal basis

The use of web analytics requires your consent, which we have obtained with our cookie popup. This consent is according to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent) the legal basis for the processing of personal data, as it may occur when collected by web analytics tools.

In addition to consent, we have a legitimate interest in analyzing the behavior of website visitors and thus improving our offering technically and economically. With the help of web analytics, we can detect errors on the website, identify attacks and improve profitability. The legal basis for this is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interests)However, we only use the tools if you have given your consent.

Since web analytics tools use cookies, we also recommend that you read our general privacy policy on cookies. To find out exactly which of your data is stored and processed, you should read the privacy policies of the respective tools.

Information on specific web analytics tools – if available – can be found in the following sections.

Facebook Pixel Privacy Policy

We use the Facebook pixel from Facebook on our website. We have implemented a code on our website for this purpose. The Facebook pixel is a section of JavaScript code that loads a collection of functions that Facebook can use to track your user actions if you came to our website via Facebook ads. For example, if you purchase a product on our website, the Facebook pixel is triggered and saves your actions on our website in one or more cookies. These cookies enable Facebook to compare your user data (customer data such as IP address, user ID) with the data in your Facebook account. Facebook then deletes this data again. The data collected is anonymous and not visible to us and can only be used to place advertisements. If you are a Facebook user yourself and are logged in, your visit to our website will automatically be assigned to your Facebook user account.

We only want to show our services and products to people who are really interested in them. With the help of Facebook Pixel, our advertising measures can be better tailored to your wishes and interests. This means that Facebook users (if they have allowed personalized advertising) see suitable advertising. Facebook also uses the data collected for analysis purposes and for its own advertisements.

Below we show you the cookies that were set by integrating Facebook pixels on a test page. Please note that these are only example cookies. Different cookies are set depending on the interaction on our website.

Name: _fbp
Value: fb.1.1568287647279.257405483-6122893266-7
Purpose of use: This cookie is used by Facebook to display advertising products.
Expiration date: after 3 months

Name: fr
Value: 0aPf312HOS5Pboo2r..Bdeiuf…1.0.Bdeiuf.
Purpose of use: This cookie is used to ensure that Facebook Pixel functions properly.
Expiration date: after 3 months

Name: comment_author_50ae8267e2bdf1253ec1a5769f48e062122893266-3
Value: name of the author
Purpose of use: This cookie stores the text and name of a user who, for example, leaves a comment.
Expiration date: after 12 months

Name: comment_author_url_50ae8267e2bdf1253ec1a5769f48e062
Value: https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testseite…%2F (URL des Autors)
Purpose of use: This cookie stores the URL of the website that the user enters in a text field on our website.
Expiration date: after 12 months

Name: comment_author_email_50ae8267e2bdf1253ec1a5769f48e062
Value: author's email address
Purpose of use: This cookie stores the user’s email address if he or she has provided it on the website.
Expiration date: after 12 months

Note: The cookies mentioned above relate to individual user behavior. Changes on Facebook can never be ruled out, especially when using cookies.

If you are logged in to Facebook, you can change your ad settings under https://www.facebook.com/adpreferences/advertisers/ yourself. If you are not a Facebook user, you can https://www.youronlinechoices.com/de/praferenzmanagement/ basically manage your usage-based online advertising. There you have the option to deactivate or activate providers.

Facebook processes your data in the USA, among other places. Facebook and Meta Platforms are active participants in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Facebook uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46, Paragraphs 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to third countries (such as the USA) and stored there. Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Facebook undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

The Facebook data processing conditions, which refer to the standard contractual clauses, can be found at https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/dataprocessing.

If you want to learn more about Facebook’s privacy policy, we recommend that you read the company’s own data policy on https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy.

Facebook Automatic Advanced Matching Privacy Policy

We have also activated Automatic Advanced Matching as part of the Facebook pixel function. This function of the pixel enables us to send hashed emails, names, gender, city, state, zip code and date of birth or telephone number as additional information to Facebook, provided you have provided us with this data. This activation enables us to tailor advertising campaigns on Facebook even more precisely to people who are interested in our services or products.

Google Analytics Privacy Policy

What is Google Analytics?

We use the analysis tracking tool Google Analytics in version Google Analytics 4 (GA4) from the American company Google Inc. on our website. In Europe, the company Google Ireland Limited (Gordon House, Barrow Street Dublin 4, Ireland) is responsible for all Google services. Google Analytics collects data about your actions on our website. By combining various technologies such as cookies, device IDs and login information, you as a user can be identified across different devices. This means that your actions can also be analyzed across platforms.

For example, if you click on a link, this event is stored in a cookie and sent to Google Analytics. The reports we receive from Google Analytics help us better tailor our website and service to your needs. Below we will go into more detail about the tracking tool and, above all, inform you about which data is processed and how you can prevent this.

Google Analytics is a tracking tool that is used to analyze the traffic on our website. These measurements and analyses are based on a pseudonymous user identification number. This number does not contain any personal data such as name or address, but is used to assign events to a device. GA4 uses an event-based model that records detailed information on user interactions such as page views, clicks, scrolling, and conversion events. In addition, various machine learning functions have been built into GA4 to better understand user behavior and certain trends. GA4 uses machine learning functions to model. This means that missing data can also be extrapolated based on the data collected in order to optimize the analysis and also to make forecasts.

In order for Google Analytics to work, a tracking code is built into the code of our website. When you visit our website, this code records various events that you perform on our website. With GA4's event-based data model, we as website operators can define and track specific events in order to obtain analyses of user interactions. This means that in addition to general information such as clicks or page views, special events that are important for our business can also be tracked. Such special events can be, for example, submitting a contact form or purchasing a product.

As soon as you leave our website, this data is sent to the Google Analytics servers and stored there.

Google processes the data and we receive reports about your user behavior. These may include the following reports:

• Target group reports: Through target group reports we get to know our users better and know more precisely who is interested in our service.
• Ad Reporting: Ad Reporting helps us analyze and improve our online advertising.
• Acquisition reports: Acquisition reports give us helpful information about how we can get more people excited about our service.
• Behavioral reports: This tells us how you interact with our website. We can see which path you take on our site and which links you click on.
• Conversion reports: A conversion is a process in which you perform a desired action based on a marketing message. For example, when you go from being a pure website visitor to becoming a buyer or newsletter subscriber. These reports help us learn more about how our marketing measures are received by you. This is how we want to increase our conversion rate.
• Real-time reports: Here we always know immediately what is happening on our website. For example, we can see how many users are currently reading this text.

In addition to the analysis reports mentioned above, Google Analytics 4 also offers the following functions:

• Event-based data model: This model records very specific events that can take place on our website. For example, playing a video, purchasing a product or signing up for our newsletter.
• Advanced analysis functions: These functions enable us to understand your behavior on our website or certain general trends even better. For example, we can segment user groups, carry out comparative analyses of target groups or track your route or path on our website.
• Predictive modeling: Using collected data, machine learning can extrapolate missing data that predicts future events and trends. This can help us develop better marketing strategies.
• Cross-platform analysis: Data can be collected and analyzed from both websites and apps. This gives us the opportunity to analyze user behavior across platforms, provided you have consented to data processing, of course.

Why do we use Google Analytics on our website?

Our goal with this website is clear: we want to offer you the best possible service. The statistics and data from Google Analytics help us achieve this goal.

The statistically evaluated data gives us a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of our website. On the one hand, we can optimize our site so that interested people can find it more easily on Google. On the other hand, the data helps us to better understand you as a visitor. We therefore know exactly what we need to improve on our website in order to offer you the best possible service. The data also helps us to carry out our advertising and marketing measures in a more personalized and cost-effective manner. After all, it only makes sense to show our products and services to people who are interested in them.

What data is stored by Google Analytics?

Google Analytics uses a tracking code to create a random, unique ID that is linked to your browser cookie. This allows Google Analytics to recognize you as a new user and assign you a user ID. The next time you visit our site, you will be recognized as a "returning" user. All collected data is stored together with this user ID. This makes it possible to evaluate pseudonymous user profiles.

In order to be able to analyze our website with Google Analytics, a property ID must be inserted into the tracking code. The data is then saved in the corresponding property. The Google Analytics 4 property is the default for every newly created property. Depending on the property used, data is saved for different lengths of time.

Using identifiers such as cookies, app instance IDs, user IDs or custom event parameters, your interactions are measured across platforms, provided you have consented. Interactions are all types of actions that you perform on our website. If you also use other Google systems (such as a Google account), data generated via Google Analytics can be linked to third-party cookies. Google does not share Google Analytics data unless we as the website operator approve this. Exceptions may apply if required by law.

According to Google, no IP addresses are logged or stored in Google Analytics 4. However, Google uses the IP address data to derive location data and deletes it immediately afterwards. All IP addresses collected from users in the EU are therefore deleted before the data is stored in a data center or on a server.

Because Google Analytics 4 focuses on event-based data, the tool uses significantly fewer cookies than previous versions (such as Google Universal Analytics). However, there are some specific cookies that GA4 uses. These include, for example:

Name: _ga
Value: 2.1326744211.152122893266-5
Purpose of use: By default, analytics.js uses the cookie _ga to store the user ID. Basically, it is used to distinguish between website visitors.
Expiration date: after 2 years

Name: _gid
Value: 2.1687193234.152122893266-1
Purpose of use: The cookie is also used to distinguish website visitors
Expiration date: after 24 hours

Name: _gat_gtag_UA_
Value: 1
Purpose of use: Used to reduce the request rate. If Google Analytics is provided via Google Tag Manager, this cookie is named _dc_gtm_ .
Expiration date: after 1 minute

Note: This list cannot claim to be complete, as Google is constantly changing its choice of cookies. The aim of GA4 is also to improve data protection. The tool therefore offers a number of options for controlling data collection. For example, we can set the storage period ourselves and also control data collection.

Here we show you an overview of the most important types of data collected with Google Analytics:

Heatmaps: Google creates so-called heat maps. Heat maps show exactly the areas you click on. This gives us information about where you are on our site.

Session duration: Google defines the session duration as the time you spend on our site without leaving the site. If you have been inactive for 20 minutes, the session ends automatically.

bounce rate Bounce rate: A bounce occurs when you only view one page on our website and then leave our website again.

Account creation: When you create an account or place an order on our website, Google Analytics collects this data.

Location: IP addresses are not logged or stored in Google Analytics. However, derivations for location data are used shortly before the IP address is deleted.

Technical information: Technical information includes your browser type, your Internet provider or your screen resolution.

Source: Google Analytics and we are of course also interested in which website or advertisement you came to our site from.

Other data includes contact details, any ratings, the playback of media (e.g. when you play a video on our site), sharing content via social media or adding it to your favorites. This list is not exhaustive and only serves as a general guide to data storage by Google Analytics.

How long and where is the data stored?

Google has its servers distributed all over the world. Here you can find out exactly where the Google data centers are located: https://www.google.com/about/datacenters/locations/?hl=de

Your data is distributed across different physical storage devices. This has the advantage that the data can be accessed more quickly and is better protected against manipulation. Every Google data center has emergency programs for your data. If, for example, Google's hardware fails or natural disasters paralyze servers, the risk of a service interruption at Google remains low.

The retention period of the data depends on the properties used. The storage period is always set separately for each individual property. Google Analytics offers us four options for controlling the storage period:

• 2 months: this is the shortest storage period.
• 14 months: by default, data is stored in GA4 for 14 months.
• 26 months: you can also store the data for 26 months.
• Data will only be deleted when we delete it manually

In addition, there is also the option that data will only be deleted if you no longer visit our website within the period we have chosen. In this case, the retention period will be reset each time you visit our website again within the specified period.

When the specified period has expired, the data is deleted once a month. This retention period applies to your data that is linked to cookies, user recognition and advertising IDs (e.g. cookies from the DoubleClick domain). Report results are based on aggregated data and are stored independently of user data. Aggregated data is a fusion of individual data into a larger unit.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

Under European Union data protection law, you have the right to obtain information about your data, to update it, to delete it or to restrict it. You can use the browser add-on to deactivate Google Analytics JavaScript (analytics.js, gtag.js) to prevent Google Analytics 4 from using your data. You can download the browser add-on at https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout?hl=de Download and install. Please note that this add-on only disables data collection by Google Analytics.

If you generally want to deactivate, delete or manage cookies, you will find the relevant links to the instructions for the most popular browsers under the “Cookies” section.

legal basis

The use of Google Analytics requires your consent, which we have obtained with our cookie popup. This consent is provided according to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent) the legal basis for the processing of personal data, as it may occur when collected by web analytics tools.

In addition to consent, we have a legitimate interest in analyzing the behavior of website visitors and thus improving our offering technically and economically. With the help of Google Analytics, we can detect errors on the website, identify attacks and improve profitability. The legal basis for this is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interests)However, we only use Google Analytics if you have given your consent.

Google processes your data in the USA, among other places. Google is an active participant in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Google uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46, Paragraphs 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to and stored in third countries (such as the USA). Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Google undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

The Google Ads Data Processing Terms, which refer to the standard contractual clauses, can be found at https://business.safety.google/intl/de/adsprocessorterms/.

We hope we have been able to provide you with the most important information about data processing by Google Analytics. If you would like to learn more about the tracking service, we recommend these two links: https://marketingplatform.google.com/about/analytics/terms/de/ and https://support.google.com/analytics/answer/6004245?hl=de.

If you want to learn more about data processing, please use the Google privacy policy at https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=de.

Data Processing Agreement (AVV) Google Analytics

We have concluded a data processing agreement (DPA) with Google in accordance with Article 28 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). You can read what a DPA is exactly and, above all, what must be included in a DPA in our general section “Data processing agreement (DPA)”.

This contract is required by law because Google processes personal data on our behalf. It clarifies that Google may only process data it receives from us in accordance with our instructions and must comply with the GDPR. The link to the order data processing conditions can be found at https://business.safety.google/intl/de/adsprocessorterms/

Google Analytics IP anonymization

We have implemented Google Analytics IP address anonymization on this website. This function was developed by Google so that this website can comply with the applicable data protection regulations and recommendations of the local data protection authorities if they prohibit the storage of the full IP address. The anonymization or masking of the IP takes place as soon as the IP addresses arrive in the Google Analytics data collection network and before the data is stored or processed.

More information about IP anonymization can be found at https://support.google.com/analytics/answer/2763052?hl=de.

Google Analytics without cookies

We use Google Analytics (GA for short) on our website, but without setting cookies in your browser. We have already explained what cookies are above, hopefully you still remember the explanations. Just briefly and specifically related to GA: Cookies are used to store data that is useful for GA in your browser on your device. By eliminating the use of cookies, no personal data is stored in such cookies that would create a user profile. Google Analytics can carry out various measurements and web analyses, but the data collected for this purpose is only stored on Google servers and your privacy is respected and protected to a much greater extent.

Google Site Kit Privacy Policy

What is Google Site Kit?

We have integrated the WordPress plugin Google Site Kit from the American company Google Inc. into our website. In Europe, the company Google Ireland Limited (Gordon House, Barrow Street Dublin 4, Ireland) is responsible for all Google services. With Google Site Kit, we can quickly and easily view statistics from various Google products such as Google Analytics directly in our WordPress dashboard. The tool or the tools integrated into Google Site Kit also collect personal data from you, among other things. In this privacy policy, we explain why we use Google Site Kit, how long and where data is stored, and which other data protection texts are relevant to you in this context.

Google Site Kit is a plugin for the WordPress content management system. With this plugin, we can view important website analysis statistics directly in our dashboard. These are statistics collected by other Google products, especially Google Analytics. In addition to Google Analytics, the services Google Search Console, Page Speed Insight, Google AdSense, Google Optimize and Google Tag Manager can also be linked to Google Site Kit.

Why do we use Google Site Kit on our website?

As a service provider, it is our job to offer you the best possible experience on our website. You should feel comfortable on our website and quickly and easily find exactly what you are looking for. Statistical evaluations help us to get to know you better and to adapt our offer to your wishes and interests. We use various Google tools for these evaluations. Site Kit makes our work much easier in this regard because we can view and analyze the statistics of Google products directly in the dashboard. This means we no longer have to register separately for the respective tool. Site Kit therefore always offers a good overview of the most important analysis data.

What data does Google Site Kit store?

If you have actively consented to tracking tools in the cookie notice (also called script or banner), cookies will be set by Google products such as Google Analytics and data from you, such as your user behavior, will be sent to Google, stored there and processed. This includes personal data such as your IP address.

For more detailed information on the individual services, we have separate text sections in this privacy policy. For example, see our privacy policy for Google Analytics. Here we go into great detail about the data collected. You will find out how long Google Analytics stores, manages and processes data, which cookies can be used and how you can prevent data storage. We also have separate privacy policies with comprehensive information for other Google services such as Google Tag Manager or Google AdSense.

Below we show you examples of Google Analytics cookies that can be set in your browser, provided you have generally agreed to data processing by Google. Please note that these cookies are only a selection:

Name: _ga
Value:2.1326744211.152122893266-2
Purpose of use: By default, analytics.js uses the cookie _ga to store the user ID. Basically, it is used to distinguish between website visitors.
Expiration date: after 2 years

Name: _gid
Value:2.1687193234.152122893266-7
Purpose of use: This cookie is also used to distinguish website visitors.
Expiration date: after 24 hours

Name: _gat_gtag_UA_
Value: 1
Purpose of use: This cookie is used to reduce the request rate.
Expiration date: after 1 minute

How long and where is the data stored?

Google stores collected data on its own Google servers, which are located worldwide. Most servers are located in the United States and therefore it is quite possible that your data will also be stored there. On https://www.google.com/about/datacenters/locations/?hl=de see exactly where the company provides servers.

Data collected by Google Analytics is retained for a standard 26 months. After this, your user data is deleted. The retention period applies to all data linked to cookies, user recognition and advertising IDs.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

You always have the right to receive information about your data and to have your data deleted, corrected or restricted. You can also deactivate, delete or manage cookies in your browser at any time.

If you generally want to deactivate, delete or manage cookies, you will find the relevant links to the instructions for the most popular browsers under the “Cookies” section.

legal basis

The use of Google Site Kit requires your consent, which we have obtained with our cookie popup. This consent is according to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent) the legal basis for the processing of personal data, as it may occur when collected by web analytics tools.

In addition to consent, we have a legitimate interest in analyzing the behavior of website visitors and thus improving our offering technically and economically. With the help of Google Site Kit, we can detect errors on the website, identify attacks and improve profitability. The legal basis for this is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interests)However, we only use Google Site Kit if you have given your consent.

Google processes your data in the USA, among other places. Google is an active participant in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Google uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46, Paragraphs 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to and stored in third countries (such as the USA). Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Google undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

The Google Ads Data Processing Terms, which refer to the standard contractual clauses, can be found at https://business.safety.google/intl/de/adsprocessorterms/.

To learn more about data processing by Google, we recommend that you read Google’s comprehensive privacy policy at https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=de.

Google Tag Manager Privacy Policy

What is Google Tag Manager?

We use the Google Tag Manager from Google Inc. for our website. In Europe, the company Google Ireland Limited (Gordon House, Barrow Street Dublin 4, Ireland) is responsible for all Google services. This Tag Manager is one of many helpful marketing products from Google. Using the Google Tag Manager, we can centrally integrate and manage code sections from various tracking tools that we use on our website.

In this privacy policy we want to explain to you in more detail what the Google Tag Manager does, why we use it and in what form data is processed.

The Google Tag Manager is an organizational tool that we can use to integrate and manage website tags centrally and via a user interface. Tags are small sections of code that, for example, record (track) your activities on our website. JavaScript code sections are inserted into the source code of our site for this purpose. The tags often come from Google's internal products such as Google Ads or Google Analytics, but tags from other companies can also be integrated and managed via the manager. Such tags perform different tasks. They can collect browser data, feed marketing tools with data, integrate buttons, set cookies and also track users across multiple websites.

Why do we use Google Tag Manager for our website?

As the saying goes: organization is half the battle! And of course that also applies to maintaining our website. In order to make our website as good as possible for you and all people who are interested in our products and services, we need various tracking tools such as Google Analytics. The data collected by these tools shows us what interests you most, where we can improve our services and which people we should show our offers to. And in order for this tracking to work, we need to integrate the appropriate JavaScript codes into our website. In principle, we could integrate each code section of the individual tracking tools separately into our source code. However, this takes a relatively long time and it is easy to lose track. That is why we use the Google Tag Manager. We can easily integrate the necessary scripts and manage them from one place. In addition, the Google Tag Manager offers an easy-to-use user interface and no programming knowledge is required. This is how we manage to keep order in our tag jungle.

What data is stored by Google Tag Manager?

The Tag Manager itself is a domain that does not set any cookies and does not store any data. It acts as a mere "administrator" of the implemented tags. The data is recorded by the individual tags of the various web analysis tools. The data is essentially passed through to the individual tracking tools in the Google Tag Manager and is not stored.

However, things are very different with the tags integrated in the various web analysis tools, such as Google Analytics. Depending on the analysis tool, various data about your web behavior is collected, stored and processed, usually with the help of cookies. Please read our data protection texts for the individual analysis and tracking tools that we use on our website.

In the account settings of the Tag Manager, we have allowed Google to receive anonymized data from us. However, this only concerns the use and utilization of our Tag Manager and not your data that is stored via the code sections. We enable Google and others to receive selected data in anonymized form. We therefore agree to the anonymous sharing of our website data. Despite extensive research, we were unable to find out exactly which summarized and anonymous data is passed on. In any case, Google deletes all information that could identify our website. Google summarizes the data with hundreds of other anonymous website data and creates user trends as part of benchmarking measures. Benchmarking compares your own results with those of competitors. Processes can be optimized on the basis of the information collected.

How long and where is the data stored?

When Google stores data, it stores this data on Google's own servers. The servers are distributed around the world. Most are located in America. https://www.google.com/about/datacenters/locations/?hl=de you can find out exactly where the Google servers are located.

You can find out how long the individual tracking tools store your data in our individual data protection texts for each tool.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

The Google Tag Manager itself does not set any cookies, but manages tags from various tracking websites. In our data protection texts for the individual tracking tools, you will find detailed information on how you can delete or manage your data.

Please note that when using this tool, your data may also be stored and processed outside the EU. Most third countries (including the USA) are not considered safe under current European data protection law. Data may therefore not simply be transferred to, stored and processed in unsafe third countries unless there are suitable guarantees (such as EU standard contractual clauses) between us and the non-European service provider.

legal basis

The use of the Google Tag Manager requires your consent, which we have obtained with our cookie popup. This consent is according to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent) the legal basis for the processing of personal data, as it may occur when collected by web analytics tools.

In addition to consent, we have a legitimate interest in analyzing the behavior of website visitors and thus improving our offering technically and economically. With the help of Google Tag Manager, we can improve our economic efficiency. The legal basis for this is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interests)However, we only use Google Tag Manager if you have given your consent.

Google processes your data in the USA, among other places. Google is an active participant in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Google uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46, Paragraphs 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to and stored in third countries (such as the USA). Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Google undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

The Google Ads Data Processing Terms, which refer to the standard contractual clauses, can be found at https://business.safety.google/intl/de/adsprocessorterms/.

If you want to learn more about Google Tag Manager, we recommend you read the FAQs at https://support.google.com/tagmanager/?hl=de#topic=3441530.

You can find out what data Google generally collects and what they use this data for on https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=de read it.

Data Processing Agreement (DPA) Google Tag Manager

We have concluded a data processing agreement (DPA) with Google in accordance with Article 28 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). You can read what a DPA is exactly and, above all, what must be included in a DPA in our general section “Data processing agreement (DPA)”.

This contract is required by law because Google processes personal data on our behalf. It clarifies that Google may only process data it receives from us in accordance with our instructions and must comply with the GDPR. The link to the data processing contract (AVV) can be found at https://business.safety.google/adsprocessorterms/.

TikTok Pixel Privacy Policy

We use TikTok Pixel on our website, a conversion tracking tool for advertisers. The service provider is the Chinese company TikTok. The company TikTok Technology Limited (10 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin, D02 T380, Ireland) is responsible for the European region.

TikTok processes your data in the USA, among other places. We would like to point out that, in the opinion of the European Court of Justice, there is currently no adequate level of protection for data transfer to the USA. This can entail various risks for the legality and security of data processing.

TikTok uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46. Para. 2 and 3 GDPR) as the basis for data processing for recipients based in third countries (outside the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, i.e. in particular in the USA) or for data transfer there. Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to third countries (such as the USA) and stored there. Through these clauses, TikTok undertakes to comply with the European data protection level when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

You can find out more about the standard contractual clauses and the data processed through the use of TikTok Pixel in the Privacy Policy on https://www.tiktok.com/legal/page/eea/privacy-policy/de-DE or on https://ads.tiktok.com/i18n/official/policy/controller-to-controller.

Yoast SEO WordPress Plugin Privacy Policy

We use the analysis tool Yoast SEO WordPress Plugin for our website. The service provider is the Dutch company Yoast BV, Don Emanuelstraat 3, 6602 GX Wijchen, Netherlands.

You can find out more about the data processed through the use of Yoast SEO WordPress Plugin in the privacy policy on https://yoast.com/privacy-policy/.

Social Media Introduction

What is social media?

In addition to our website, we are also active on various social media platforms. User data can be processed so that we can specifically address users who are interested in us via social networks. In addition, elements of a social media platform can also be embedded directly in our website. This is the case, for example, if you click on a so-called social button on our website and are redirected directly to our social media presence. So-called social media or social media refers to websites and apps through which registered members can produce content, exchange content openly or in specific groups, and network with other members.

Why do we use social media?

For years, social media platforms have been the place where people communicate and get in touch online. With our social media presence, we can bring our products and services closer to prospective customers. The social media elements integrated into our website help you to switch to our social media content quickly and without complications.

The data that is stored and processed through your use of a social media channel primarily serves the purpose of being able to carry out web analyses. The aim of these analyses is to be able to develop more precise and personalized marketing and advertising strategies. Depending on your behavior on a social media platform, the evaluated data can be used to draw appropriate conclusions about your interests and create so-called user profiles. This also enables the platforms to present you with customized advertisements. Cookies are usually placed in your browser for this purpose, which store data about your usage behavior.

We generally assume that we remain responsible for data protection, even if we use the services of a social media platform. However, the European Court of Justice has ruled that in certain cases the operator of the social media platform may be jointly responsible with us within the meaning of Art. 26 GDPR. If this is the case, we will point this out separately and work on the basis of an agreement to this effect. The essence of the agreement is then reproduced below for the platform in question.

Please note that when using the social media platforms or our built-in elements, your data may also be processed outside the European Union, as many social media channels, such as Facebook or Twitter, are American companies. This may make it more difficult for you to claim or enforce your rights with regard to your personal data.

Which data is processed?

Exactly which data is stored and processed depends on the respective provider of the social media platform. But it is usually data such as telephone numbers, email addresses, data that you enter in a contact form, user data such as which buttons you click, who you like or follow, when you visited which pages, information about your device and your IP address. Most of this data is stored in cookies. Especially if you have a profile on the social media channel you visit and are logged in, data can be linked to your profile.

All data collected via a social media platform is also stored on the providers' servers. This means that only the providers have access to the data and can provide you with the appropriate information or make changes.

If you want to know exactly which data is stored and processed by the social media providers and how you can object to data processing, you should read the respective company's data protection declaration carefully. If you have any questions about data storage and data processing or want to assert corresponding rights, we recommend that you contact the provider directly.

duration of data processing

We will inform you about the duration of data processing below, provided we have further information. For example, the social media platform Facebook stores data until it is no longer required for its own purposes. However, customer data that is compared with the company's own user data is deleted within two days. In general, we only process personal data for as long as it is absolutely necessary to provide our services and products. If it is required by law, as in the case of accounting, for example, this storage period can also be exceeded.

right of objection

You also have the right and the option to withdraw your consent to the use of cookies or third-party services such as embedded social media elements at any time. This works either via our cookie management tool or via other opt-out functions. For example, you can also prevent data collection through cookies by managing, deactivating or deleting cookies in your browser.

Since social media tools may use cookies, we also recommend that you read our general privacy policy on cookies. To find out exactly which of your data is stored and processed, you should read the privacy policies of the respective tools.

legal basis

If you have consented that your data can be processed and stored through integrated social media elements, this consent is considered the legal basis for data processing (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR)In principle, if you have given your consent, your data will also be processed on the basis of our legitimate interest (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR) on fast and good communication with you or other customers and business partners. However, we only use the tools if you have given your consent. Most social media platforms also set cookies in your browser to store data. We therefore recommend that you read our privacy policy on cookies carefully and view the privacy statement or cookie policy of the respective service provider.

Information about specific social media platforms – if available – can be found in the following sections.

Facebook privacy policy

What are Facebook tools?

We use selected tools from Facebook on our website. Facebook is a social media network operated by Meta Platforms Inc. or, in Europe, by Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland. These tools enable us to offer you and people who are interested in our products and services the best possible service.

If data is collected and forwarded from you via our embedded Facebook elements or via our Facebook page (fan page), both we and Facebook Ireland Ltd. are responsible for this. Facebook is solely responsible for the further processing of this data. Our joint obligations have also been set out in a publicly accessible agreement at https://www.facebook.com/legal/controller_addendum This states, for example, that we must clearly inform you about the use of Facebook tools on our site. We are also responsible for ensuring that the tools are securely integrated into our website in accordance with data protection law. Facebook, on the other hand, is responsible for the data security of Facebook products, for example. If you have any questions about data collection and processing by Facebook, you can contact the company directly. If you address the question to us, we are obliged to forward it to Facebook.

Below we provide an overview of the different Facebook tools, which data is sent to Facebook and how you can delete this data.

In addition to many other products, Facebook also offers the so-called “Facebook Business Tools”. This is the official name of Facebook. However, since the term is hardly known, we have decided to simply call them Facebook tools. These include:

• Facebook pixel
• social plug-ins (such as the "Like" or "Share" button)
• Facebook Login
• Account Kit
• APIs (application programming interfaces)
• SDKs (collection of programming tools)
• platform integrations
• plugins
• codes
• specifications
• documentation
• technologies and services

Through these tools, Facebook expands its services and has the ability to obtain information about user activities outside of Facebook.

Why do we use Facebook tools on our website?

We only want to show our services and products to people who are really interested in them. With the help of advertisements (Facebook ads) we can reach exactly these people. In order to show users suitable advertising, however, Facebook needs information about people's wishes and needs. The company is provided with information about user behavior (and contact details) on our website. This allows Facebook to collect better user data and show interested people the right advertisements about our products or services. The tools thus enable customized advertising campaigns on Facebook.

Facebook calls data about your behavior on our website "event data." This is also used for measurement and analysis services. Facebook can create "campaign reports" on our behalf about the impact of our advertising campaigns. Furthermore, analyses give us a better insight into how you use our services, website or products. As a result, we use some of these tools to optimize your user experience on our website. For example, you can use the social plug-ins to share content on our site directly on Facebook.

What data are stored by Facebook tools?

By using individual Facebook tools, personal data (customer data) can be sent to Facebook. Depending on the tools used, customer data such as name, address, telephone number and IP address can be sent.

Facebook uses this information to compare the data with the data it has about you (if you are a Facebook member). Before customer data is sent to Facebook, a process known as "hashing" takes place. This means that a data set of any size is transformed into a character string. This also serves to encrypt data.

In addition to contact data, "event data" is also transmitted. "Event data" refers to the information that we receive about you on our website. For example, which subpages you visit or which products you buy from us. Facebook does not share the information received with third parties (such as advertisers) unless the company has explicit permission or is legally obliged to do so. "Event data" can also be linked to contact data. This enables Facebook to offer better personalized advertising. After the matching process mentioned above, Facebook deletes the contact data again.

In order to be able to deliver advertisements in an optimized manner, Facebook only uses the event data if it has been combined with other data (which has been collected by Facebook in another way). Facebook also uses this event data for security, protection, development and research purposes. Much of this data is transferred to Facebook via cookies. Cookies are small text files that are used to store data or information in browsers. Depending on the tools used and whether you are a Facebook member, different numbers of cookies are created in your browser. In the descriptions of the individual Facebook tools, we go into more detail about individual Facebook cookies. You can also find general information about the use of Facebook cookies on https://www.facebook.com/policies/cookies.

How long and where is the data stored?

Basically, Facebook stores data until it is no longer needed for its own services and Facebook products. Facebook has servers all over the world where its data is stored. However, customer data is deleted within 48 hours after it has been compared with its own user data.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

According to the General Data Protection Regulation, you have the right to information, rectification, portability and erasure of your data.

The data will only be completely deleted if you completely delete your Facebook account. This is how you delete your Facebook account:

1) On the right side of Facebook, click Settings.

2) Then click on “Your Facebook information” in the left column.

3) Now click “Deactivation and deletion”.

4) Now select “Delete account” and then click “Continue and delete account”

5) Now enter your password, click “Next” and then “Delete account”

The data that Facebook receives via our site is stored using cookies (e.g. social plugins). You can deactivate, delete or manage individual or all cookies in your browser. This works in different ways depending on which browser you use. Under the "Cookies" section you will find the relevant links to the respective instructions for the most popular browsers.

If you do not want cookies at all, you can set your browser to always inform you when a cookie is about to be placed. This way you can decide for each individual cookie whether you want to allow it or not.

legal basis

If you have consented that your data can be processed and stored by integrated Facebook tools, this consent is considered the legal basis for data processing (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR)In principle, your data will also be processed on the basis of our legitimate interest (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR) on fast and good communication with you or other customers and business partners. However, we only use the tools if you have given your consent. Most social media platforms also set cookies in your browser to store data. We therefore recommend that you read our privacy policy on cookies carefully and view Facebook's privacy policy or cookie guidelines.

Facebook processes your data in the USA, among other places. Facebook and Meta Platforms are active participants in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Facebook uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46, Paragraphs 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to third countries (such as the USA) and stored there. Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Facebook undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

The Facebook data processing conditions, which refer to the standard contractual clauses, can be found at https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/dataprocessing.

We hope we have provided you with the most important information about the use and processing of data by Facebook tools. If you would like to learn more about how Facebook uses your data, we recommend that you read the data guidelines on https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy/.

Facebook Login Privacy Policy

We have integrated the practical Facebook login on our website. This means you can easily log in with your Facebook account without having to create another user account. If you decide to register using the Facebook login, you will be redirected to the social media network Facebook. There you log in using your Facebook user data. This login process saves data about you and your user behavior and transmits it to Facebook.

Facebook uses various cookies to store the data. Below we show you the most important cookies that are set in your browser or already exist when you log in to our site using Facebook Login:

Name: fr
Value: 0jieyh4c2GnlufEJ9..Bde09j…1.0.Bde09j
Purpose of use: This cookie is used to ensure that the social plugin on our website works as well as possible.
Expiration date: after 3 months

Name: datr
Value: 4Jh7XUA2122893266SEmPsSfzCOO4JFFl
Purpose of use: Facebook sets the “datr” cookie when a web browser accesses facebook.com, and the cookie helps identify login activity and protect users.
Expiration date: after 2 years

Name: _js_datr
Value: deleted
Purpose of use: Facebook sets this session cookie for tracking purposes, even if you do not have a Facebook account or are logged out.
Expiration date: after the end of the session

Note: The cookies listed are only a small selection of the cookies available to Facebook. Other cookies include _ fbp, sb or wd. A complete list is not possible because Facebook has a large number of cookies and uses them variably.

The Facebook Login offers you a quick and easy registration process, and it also gives us the opportunity to share data with Facebook. This enables us to better tailor our offerings and promotions to your interests and needs. Data that we receive from Facebook in this way is public data such as

• your Facebook name
• your profile picture
• a stored email address
• friends lists
• button information (e.g. "Like" button)
• birthday
• Language
• Place of residence

In return, we provide Facebook with information about your activities on our website. This includes information about the device you use, which subpages you visit on our website or which products you have purchased from us.

By using Facebook Login, you consent to data processing. You can revoke this agreement at any time. If you would like to find out more information about data processing by Facebook, we recommend that you read the Facebook privacy policy at https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy/.

If you are logged in to Facebook, you can change your ad settings under https://www.facebook.com/adpreferences/advertisers/?entry_product=ad_settings_screen change yourself.

Gravatar Privacy Policy

What is Gravatar?

We have integrated the Gravatar plug-in from Automattic Inc. (60 29th Street #343, San Francisco, CA 94110, USA) on our website. Gravatar is automatically activated on all WordPress websites, among others. The function enables user images (avatars) to be displayed on published posts or comments, provided that the corresponding email address is registered with www.gravatar.com is registered.

This function sends data to Gravatar or Automattic Inc., stores it and processes it there. In this privacy policy we want to inform you about what data is involved, how the network uses this data and how you can manage or prevent data storage.

Gravatar basically stands for "Globally Recognized Avatar" and this means a globally available avatar (a user image) that is linked to the email address. The company Gravatar is the world's leading provider of this service. As soon as a user enters the email address on a website, which is also registered with the company Gravatar under www.gravatar.com is registered, a previously stored image will automatically be displayed together with a published post or comment.

Why do we use Gravatar on our website?

People often talk about anonymity on the Internet. An avatar gives users a face to the people commenting. It also makes it easier to recognize people online and helps them build up a certain level of fame. Many users enjoy the benefits of such a user image and want to appear personal and authentic online. We naturally want to offer you the opportunity to display your Gravatar on our website. We also like to see faces of our commenting users. By activating the Gravatar function, we are also expanding our service on our website. After all, we want you to feel comfortable on our website and to have a comprehensive and interesting offer.

What data does Gravatar store?

For example, as soon as you post a comment on a blog post that requires an email address, WordPress checks whether the email address is linked to an avatar on Gravatar. For this request, your email address is sent in encrypted or hashed form, along with your IP address and our URL, to the Gravatar or Automattic servers. This checks whether this email address is registered with Gravatar.

If this is the case, the image stored there (Gravatar) will be displayed together with the published comment. If you have registered an email address with Gravatar and comment on our website, further data will be transferred to Gravatar, stored and processed. In addition to IP address and data on user behavior, this includes, for example, browser type, unique device identifier, preferred language, date and time of page entry, operating system and information on the mobile network. Gravatar uses this information to improve its own services and offers and to gain better insights into the use of its own service.

The following cookies are set by Automattic when a user uses an email address registered with Gravatar to comment:

Name: gravatar
Value: 16b3191024acc05a238209d51ffcb92bdd710bd19122893266-7
Purpose of use: We could not find out any precise information about the cookie.
Expiration date: after 50 years

Name: is-logged-in
Value: 1122893266-1
Purpose of use: This cookie stores the information that the user is logged in using the registered email address.
Expiration date: after 50 years

How long and where is the data stored?

Automattic deletes the collected data when it is no longer used for its own services and the company is not legally obliged to retain the data. Web server logs such as IP address, browser type and operating system are deleted after about 30 days. During this time, Automattic uses the data to analyze traffic on its own websites (for example, all WordPress pages) and to resolve potential problems. The data is also stored on Automattic's American servers.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

You have the right to access and delete your personal data at any time. If you have registered with Gravatar using an email address, you can delete your account or email address at any time.

Since an image is only displayed and data is thus transferred to Gravatar when an email address registered with Gravatar is used, you can also prevent the transfer of your data to Gravatar by commenting or writing posts on our website using an email address that is not registered with Gravatar.

You can manage, deactivate or delete any cookies that may be set while commenting in your browser. Please note that any comment functions will then no longer be available to their full extent. Depending on which browser you use, managing cookies works a little differently. Under the "Cookies" section you will find the relevant links to the respective instructions for the most popular browsers.

legal basis

If you have consented that your data can be processed and stored through integrated social media elements, this consent is considered the legal basis for data processing (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR)In principle, your data will also be processed on the basis of our legitimate interest (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR) on fast and good communication with you or other customers and business partners. However, we only use the integrated social media elements if you have given your consent. Most social media platforms also set cookies in your browser to store data. We therefore recommend that you read our privacy policy on cookies carefully and view the privacy statement or cookie policy of the respective service provider.

Gravatar processes your data in the USA, among other places. Gravatar or Automattic is an active participant in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Automattic uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46, Paragraphs 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to and stored in third countries (such as the USA). Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Automattic undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de.

You can find out more about the standard contractual clauses and data processed through the use of Gravatar in the privacy policy on https://automattic.com/privacy/, general information about Gravatar on http://de.gravatar.com/.

Instagram privacy policy

What is Instagram?

We have integrated Instagram functions into our website. Instagram is a social media platform of the company Instagram LLC, 1601 Willow Rd, Menlo Park CA 94025, USA. Instagram has been a subsidiary of Meta Platforms Inc. since 2012 and is one of the Facebook products. Embedding Instagram content on our website is called embedding. This allows us to show you content such as buttons, photos or videos from Instagram directly on our website. When you visit websites on our website that have an integrated Instagram function, data is transmitted to, stored and processed by Instagram. Instagram uses the same systems and technologies as Facebook. Your data is therefore processed across all Facebook companies.

Below we want to give you a more detailed insight into why Instagram collects data, what data it is and how you can largely control the data processing. Since Instagram belongs to Meta Platforms Inc., we get our information from the Instagram guidelines on the one hand, but also from the Meta privacy guidelines themselves on the other.

Instagram is one of the most popular social media networks in the world. Instagram combines the advantages of a blog with the advantages of audiovisual platforms such as YouTube or Vimeo. You can upload photos and short videos to "Insta" (as many users casually call the platform), edit them with various filters and also share them on other social networks. And if you don't want to be active yourself, you can just follow other interesting users.

Why do we use Instagram on our website?

Instagram is the social media platform that has really taken off in recent years. And of course we have also responded to this boom. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible on our website. That's why it's a matter of course for us to present our content in a varied way. The embedded Instagram functions allow us to enrich our content with helpful, funny or exciting content from the Instagram world. Since Instagram is a subsidiary of Facebook, the data collected can also be useful for personalized advertising on Facebook. This means that our advertisements are only shown to people who are really interested in our products or services.

Instagram also uses the collected data for measurement and analysis purposes. We get aggregated statistics and thus more insight into your wishes and interests. It is important to note that these reports do not identify you personally.

What data does Instagram store?

If you come across one of our pages that has Instagram functions (such as Instagram images or plug-ins) built in, your browser automatically connects to Instagram's servers. Data is sent to Instagram, stored and processed, regardless of whether you have an Instagram account or not. This includes information about our website, your computer, purchases made, advertisements you see and how you use our services. The date and time of your interaction with Instagram are also stored. If you have an Instagram account or are logged in, Instagram stores significantly more data about you.

Facebook differentiates between customer data and event data. We assume that this is also the case with Instagram. Customer data includes names, addresses, telephone numbers and IP addresses. These customer data will only be transmitted to Instagram if they have been "hashed" beforehand. Hashing means that a data set is converted into a character string. This allows the contact details to be encrypted. The "event data" mentioned above is also transmitted. Facebook - and consequently Instagram - understands "event data" to mean data about your user behavior. It can also happen that contact details are combined with event data. The contact details collected are compared with the data that Instagram already has about you.

The collected data is transmitted to Facebook via small text files (cookies), which are usually placed in your browser. Depending on the Instagram functions used and whether you have an Instagram account yourself, different amounts of data are stored.

We assume that data processing on Instagram works in the same way as on Facebook. This means: if you have an Instagram account or www.instagram.com Instagram has set at least one cookie. If this is the case, your browser sends information to Instagram via the cookie as soon as you come into contact with an Instagram function. This data is deleted or anonymized after 90 days at the latest (after comparison). Although we have looked intensively into Instagram's data processing, we cannot say exactly which data Instagram collects and stores.

Below we show you the cookies that are set in your browser at least when you click on an Instagram function (such as a button or an Insta image). In our test, we assume that you do not have an Instagram account. If you are logged in to Instagram, significantly more cookies will of course be set in your browser.

These cookies were used in our test:

Name: csrftoken
Value: “”
Purpose of use: This cookie is most likely set for security reasons to prevent requests from being forged. However, we were unable to find out more details.
Expiration date: after one year

Name: mid
Value: “”
Purpose of use: Instagram sets this cookie to optimize its own services and offers on and off Instagram. The cookie sets a unique user ID.
Expiration date: after the end of the session

Name: fbsr_122893266124024
Value: not specified
Purpose of use: This cookie stores the log-in request for users of the Instagram app.
Expiration date: after the end of the session

Name: rur
Value: ATN
Purpose of use: This is an Instagram cookie that ensures functionality on Instagram.
Expiration date: after the end of the session

Name: urlgen
Value: “{”194.96.75.33”: 1901}:1iEtYv:Y833k2_UjKvXgYe122893266”
Purpose of use: This cookie is used for Instagram’s marketing purposes.
Expiration date: after the end of the session

Note: We cannot claim to be complete here. Which cookies are set in each individual case depends on the embedded functions and your use of Instagram.

How long and where is the data stored?

Instagram shares the information it receives between the Facebook companies, with external partners, and with people you connect with around the world. Data processing is carried out in compliance with its own data policy. Your data is distributed across Facebook servers around the world, partly for security reasons. Most of these servers are located in the USA.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

Thanks to the General Data Protection Regulation, you have the right to information, portability, correction and deletion of your data. You can manage your data in the Instagram settings. If you want to completely delete your data on Instagram, you must permanently delete your Instagram account.

And this is how to delete your Instagram account:

First, open the Instagram app. On your profile page, scroll down and click on "Help Center." This will take you to the company's website. On the website, click on "Manage Account" and then "Delete Your Account."

If you delete your account entirely, Instagram will delete posts such as your photos and status updates. Information that other people have shared about you is not part of your account and will not be deleted.

As mentioned above, Instagram primarily stores your data via cookies. You can manage, deactivate or delete these cookies in your browser. Depending on your browser, the management always works a little differently. Under the "Cookies" section you will find the relevant links to the respective instructions for the most popular browsers.

You can also set up your browser so that you are always informed when a cookie is to be placed. You can then always decide individually whether you want to accept the cookie or not.

legal basis

If you have consented that your data can be processed and stored through integrated social media elements, this consent is considered the legal basis for data processing (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR)In principle, your data will also be processed on the basis of our legitimate interest (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR) on fast and good communication with you or other customers and business partners. However, we only use the integrated social media elements if you have given your consent. Most social media platforms also set cookies in your browser to store data. We therefore recommend that you read our privacy policy on cookies carefully and view the privacy statement or cookie policy of the respective service provider.

Instagram processes your data in the USA, among other places. Instagram and Meta Platforms are active participants in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Instagram uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46. Para. 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to third countries (such as the USA) and stored there. Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Instagram undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

We have tried to provide you with the most important information about data processing by Instagram. https://privacycenter.instagram.com/policy/ you can learn more about Instagram's data policies.

Pinterest privacy policy

What is Pinterest?

We use buttons and widgets from the social media network Pinterest, the company Pinterest Inc., 808 Brannan Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA, on our website. In Europe, the Irish company Pinterest Europe Ltd. (Palmerston House, 2nd Floor, Fenian Street, Dublin 2, Ireland) is responsible for all data protection-related aspects.

Pinterest is a social network that specializes in graphic representations and photography. The name is made up of the two words "pin" and "interest". Users can use Pinterest to exchange information about different hobbies and interests and view the respective profiles with pictures openly or in defined groups.

Why do we use Pinterest?

Pinterest has been around for a few years now and this social media platform is still one of the most visited and valued platforms. Pinterest is particularly suitable for our industry because the platform is primarily known for beautiful and interesting images. That is why we are of course also represented on Pinterest and want to present our content appropriately outside of our website. The data collected can also be used for advertising purposes so that we can show advertising messages to precisely those people who are interested in our services or products.

What data does Pinterest process?

So-called log data may be stored. This includes information about your browser, IP address, the address of our website and the activities carried out on it (for example, when you click the save or pin button), search history, date and time of the request and cookie and device data. If you interact with an embedded Pinterest function, cookies that store various data may also be set in your browser. The above-mentioned log data, preset language settings and clickstream data are usually stored in cookies. Pinterest defines clickstream data as information about your website behavior.

If you have a Pinterest account yourself and are logged in, the data collected through our site can be added to your account and used for advertising purposes. If you interact with our integrated Pinterest functions, you will usually be redirected to the Pinterest page. Here you can see an example selection of cookies that are then set in your browser.

Name: _auth
Value: 0
Purpose of use: The cookie is used for authentication. For example, a value such as your “user name” can be stored in it.
Expiration date: after one year

Name: _pinterest_referrer
Value: 1
Purpose of use: The cookie stores that you came to Pinterest via our website. The URL of our website is therefore stored.
Expiration date: after the end of the session

Name: _pinterest_sess
Value: …9HRHZvVE0rQlUxdG89
Purpose of use: The cookie is used to log in to Pinterest and contains user IDs, authentication tokens and timestamps.
Expiration date: after one year

Name: _routing_id
Value: “8d850ddd-4fb8-499c-961c-77efae9d4065122893266-8”
Purpose of use: The cookie contains an assigned value that is used to identify a specific routing destination.
Expiration date: after one day

Name: cm_sub
Value: denied
Purpose of use: This cookie stores a user ID and timestamp.
Expiration date: after one year

Name: csrftoken
Value: 9e49145c82a93d34fd933b0fd8446165122893266-1
Purpose of use: This cookie is most likely set for security reasons to prevent requests from being forged. However, we were unable to find out more details.
Expiration date: after one year

Name: sessionFunnelEventLogged
Value: 1
Purpose of use: We have not yet been able to find out any further information about this cookie.
Expiration date: after one day

How long and where is the data stored?

Pinterest generally stores the data collected until it is no longer needed for the company's purposes. As soon as data retention is no longer necessary, for example to comply with legal requirements, the data is either deleted or anonymized so that you can no longer be identified as a person. The data can also be stored on American servers.

right of objection

You also have the right and option to withdraw your consent to the use of cookies or third-party providers such as Pinterest at any time. This works either via our cookie management tool or via other opt-out functions. For example, you can also prevent data collection through cookies by managing, deactivating or deleting cookies in your browser.

Since cookies may be used for embedded Pinterest elements, we also recommend that you read our general privacy policy on cookies. To find out exactly which of your data is stored and processed, you should read the privacy policies of the respective tools.

legal basis

If you have consented that your data can be processed and stored through integrated social media elements, this consent is considered the legal basis for data processing (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR)In principle, your data will also be processed on the basis of our legitimate interest (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR) on fast and good communication with you or other customers and business partners. However, we only use the tool if you have given your consent. Most social media platforms also set cookies in your browser to store data. We therefore recommend that you read our privacy policy on cookies carefully and view the privacy statement or cookie policy of the respective service provider.

Pinterest processes your data in the USA, among other places. We would like to point out that, in the opinion of the European Court of Justice, there is currently no adequate level of protection for data transfer to the USA. This can involve various risks for the legality and security of data processing.

Pinterest uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46. Para. 2 and 3 GDPR) as the basis for data processing for recipients based in third countries (outside the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, i.e. in particular in the USA) or for data transfer there. Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to third countries (such as the USA) and stored there. Through these clauses, Pinterest undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de.

For more information about Pinterest’s standard contractual clauses, please visit https://policy.pinterest.com/de/privacy-policy#section-residents-of-the-eea.

We have tried to provide you with the most important information about data processing by Pinterest. https://policy.pinterest.com/de/privacy-policy you can learn more about Pinterest's data policies.

TikTok privacy policy

What is TikTok?

We use the TikTok integration on our website. The service provider is the Chinese company Beijing Bytedance Technology Ltd. The Irish company TikTok Technology Limited, 10 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin, D02 T380, Ireland, is responsible for Europe. TikTok is a popular social media platform, especially among young people, where users can create, share and watch short video clips.

In this privacy policy we inform you about which data is processed by TikTok, how long the data is stored and how you can manage your data protection settings.

Why do we use TikTok on our website?

We have integrated TikTok into our website so that you can watch TikTok videos whenever you want and interact with the videos if you want. TikTok is particularly known for funny and creative content and of course we don't want to withhold such content from you. After all, we also like to watch the odd creative TikTok video ourselves.

What data does TikTok process?

When you watch or interact with TikTok videos on our website, TikTok may collect information about your usage behavior and your device. This may include data such as your IP address, browser type, operating system, location and other technical information. TikTok may also use cookies and similar technologies to collect information and personalize your user experience.

If you have a TikTok account yourself, additional information may also be collected and processed. This includes user information (such as name, date of birth or your email address) and data about your communication with other TikTok users.

How long and where is the data stored?

The storage period and storage locations of the data collected by TikTok can vary greatly and are subject to TikTok's privacy policy. TikTok can also store data on servers in the US and other countries. The storage period is generally based on the respective legal requirements and internal guidelines. However, we have not yet been able to find out exactly how long data is stored. As soon as we have more information, we will of course inform you.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

If you have a TikTok account, you can manage your privacy settings directly on TikTok. For example, you can specify in the settings of your TikTok account which information can and cannot be shared. In addition, you can manage and deactivate cookies in your web browser to limit data collection. This is of course also possible without a TikTok account. However, please note that this may affect the functionality of our website and your TikTok experience.

legal basis

If you have consented to your data being processed and stored by TikTok, this consent is considered the legal basis for data processing (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR)In principle, your data will also be processed on the basis of our legitimate interest (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR) on fast and good communication with you or other customers and business partners. However, we only use the integrated social media elements if you have given your consent. TikTok can also set cookies in your browser to store data. We therefore recommend that you read our privacy policy on cookies carefully and view the privacy statement or cookie policy of the respective service provider.

TikTok processes your data in the USA, among other places. We would like to point out that, in the opinion of the European Court of Justice, there is currently no adequate level of protection for data transfer to the USA. This can entail various risks for the legality and security of data processing.

TikTok uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46. Para. 2 and 3 GDPR) as the basis for data processing for recipients based in third countries (outside the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, i.e. in particular in the USA) or for data transfer there. Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to third countries (such as the USA) and stored there. Through these clauses, TikTok undertakes to comply with the European data protection level when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

For more information about TikTok’s privacy policy and how TikTok collects data, please visit the TikTok website at https://www.tiktok.com/legal/page/eea/privacy-policy/en and in the general information about TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/en/.

Blogs and Publication Media Introduction

What are blogs and publication media?

We use blogs or other means of communication on our website with which we can communicate with you and you can communicate with us. We may also store and process your data. This may be necessary so that we can display content appropriately, communication works and security is increased. In our privacy policy we generally explain which of your data can be processed. Exact details on data processing always depend on the tools and functions used. You can find precise information about data processing in the privacy policy of the individual providers.

Why do we use blogs and publication media?

Our main concern with our website is to offer you interesting and exciting content, and at the same time, your opinions and content are important to us. That is why we want to create a good interactive exchange between us and you. With various blogs and publication options, we can achieve exactly that. For example, you can write comments on our content, comment on other comments or, in some cases, even write contributions yourself.

Which data is processed?

Exactly which data is processed always depends on the communication functions we use. Very often, IP addresses, user names and published content are stored. This is done primarily to ensure security, prevent spam and to be able to take action against illegal content. Cookies can also be used to store data. These are small text files that are stored in your browser with information. You can find more information about the data collected and stored in our individual sections and in the data protection declaration of the respective provider.

duration of data processing

We will inform you below about the duration of data processing if we have further information about it. For example, post and comment functions store data until you revoke the data storage. In general, personal data is only stored for as long as it is absolutely necessary to provide our services.

right of objection

You also have the right and the option to revoke your consent to the use of cookies or third-party communication tools at any time. This works either via our cookie management tool or via other opt-out functions. For example, you can also prevent data collection through cookies by managing, deactivating or deleting cookies in your browser.

Since cookies can also be used in publication media, we also recommend that you read our general privacy policy on cookies. To find out exactly which of your data is stored and processed, you should read the privacy policies of the respective tools.

legal basis

We use the means of communication primarily on the basis of our legitimate interests (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR) in fast and good communication with you or other customers, business partners and visitors. Insofar as the use serves the processing of contractual relationships or their initiation, the legal basis is also Art. 6 Para. 1 S. 1 lit. b. GDPR.

Certain processing operations, in particular the use of cookies and the use of comment or message functions, require your consent. If and to the extent that you have consented that your data can be processed and stored by integrated publication media, this consent is considered the legal basis for data processing (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR). Most of the communication functions we use set cookies in your browser to store data. We therefore recommend that you read our privacy policy on cookies carefully and view the privacy policy or cookie guidelines of the respective service provider.

Information about specific tools – if available – can be found in the following sections.

Blog posts and comment functions Privacy Policy

There are various online communication tools that we can use on our website. For example, we use blog posts and comment functions. This gives you the opportunity to comment on content or write posts. If you use this function, your IP address may be saved for security reasons. This way we protect ourselves from illegal content such as insults, unauthorized advertising or prohibited political propaganda. In order to recognize whether comments are spam, we can also save and process user information based on our legitimate interest. If we start a survey, we also save your IP address for the duration of the survey so that we can be sure that everyone involved really only votes once. Cookies may also be used for storage purposes. All data that we save from you (such as content or information about you) will remain saved until you object.

Cookie Consent Management Platform Introduction

What is a Cookie Consent Management Platform?

We use a Consent Management Platform (CMP) software on our website that makes it easier for us and you to handle the scripts and cookies used correctly and safely. The software automatically creates a cookie popup, scans and checks all scripts and cookies, provides you with cookie consent required by data protection law, and helps us and you to keep track of all cookies. Most cookie consent management tools identify and categorize all existing cookies. You, as a website visitor, then decide for yourself whether and which scripts and cookies you allow or not. The following graphic shows the relationship between browser, web server, and CMP.

Why do we use a cookie management tool?

Our goal is to offer you the best possible transparency in the area of data protection. We are also legally obliged to do so. We want to inform you as best as possible about all tools and all cookies that can store and process your data. It is also your right to decide for yourself which cookies you accept and which you do not. In order to grant you this right, we first need to know exactly which cookies have landed on our website in the first place. Thanks to a cookie management tool that regularly scans the website for all existing cookies, we know about all cookies and can provide you with information about them in accordance with the GDPR. You can then accept or reject cookies using the consent system.

Which data is processed?

As part of our cookie management tool, you can manage each individual cookie yourself and have complete control over the storage and processing of your data. Your declaration of consent is saved so that we do not have to ask you every time you visit our website and we can also prove your consent if legally required. This is saved either in an opt-in cookie or on a server. The storage period of your cookie consent varies depending on the provider of the cookie management tool. This data (such as pseudonymous user ID, time of consent, details of the cookie categories or tools, browser, device information) is usually saved for up to two years.

duration of data processing

We will inform you about the duration of data processing below, if we have further information. In general, we only process personal data for as long as it is absolutely necessary to provide our services and products. Data stored in cookies is stored for different lengths of time. Some cookies are deleted as soon as you leave the website, others can be stored in your browser for several years. The exact duration of data processing depends on the tool used; in most cases, you should expect a storage period of several years. In the respective data protection declarations of the individual providers, you will usually find precise information about the duration of data processing.

right of objection

You also have the right and the option to withdraw your consent to the use of cookies at any time. This works either via our cookie management tool or via other opt-out functions. For example, you can also prevent data collection through cookies by managing, deactivating or deleting cookies in your browser.

Information about special cookie management tools – if available – can be found in the following sections.

legal basis

If you agree to cookies, these cookies will process and store your personal data. If we receive your consent (Article 6 Paragraph 1 Letter a of GDPR) cookies, this consent is also the legal basis for the use of cookies or the processing of your data. In order to manage the consent to cookies and to enable you to give your consent, a cookie consent management platform software is used. The use of this software enables us to operate the website in an efficient and legally compliant manner, which is a legitimate interest (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR).

Cookiebot privacy policy

What is Cookiebot?

We use functions from the provider Cookiebot on our website. Cookiebot is operated by Cybot A/S, Havnegade 39, 1058 Copenhagen, DK. Cookiebot offers us, among other things, the option of providing you with a comprehensive cookie notice (also known as a cookie banner or cookie notice). By using this function, your data can be sent to Cookiebot or Cybot, stored and processed. In this privacy policy, we inform you why we use Cookiebot, which data is transferred and how you can prevent this data transfer.

Cookiebot is a software product from the company Cybot. The software automatically creates a GDPR-compliant cookie notice for our website visitors. In addition, the technology behind Cookiebot scans, controls and evaluates all cookies and tracking measures on our website.

Why do we use Cookiebot on our website?

We take data protection very seriously. We want to show you exactly what is going on on our website and which of your data is stored. Cookiebot helps us to get a good overview of all our cookies (first-party and third-party cookies). This allows us to inform you precisely and transparently about the use of cookies on our website. You always receive an up-to-date and data protection-compliant cookie notice and decide for yourself which cookies you allow and which you do not.

What data is stored by Cookiebot?

If you allow cookies, the following data will be transferred to Cybot, stored and processed.

• IP address (in anonymized form, the last 3 digits are set to 0)
• date and time of your consent
• our website URL
• technical browser data
• encrypted, anonymous key
• the cookies you have allowed (as proof of consent)

The following cookies are set by Cookiebot if you have agreed to the use of cookies:

Name: CookieConsent
Value: {stamp:'P7to4eNgIHvJvDerjKneBsmJQd9122893266-2
Purpose of use: This cookie stores your consent status so that our website can read and follow the current status on future visits.
Expiration date: after one year

Name: CookieConsentBulkTicket
Value: kDSPWpA%2fjhljZKClPqsncfR8SveTnNWhys5NojaxdFYBPjZ2PaDnUw%3d%3122893266-6
Purpose of use: This cookie is set if you allow all cookies and have thus activated “collective consent”. The cookie then stores its own random and unique ID.
Expiration date: after one year

Note: Please note that this is an example list and we cannot claim to be complete. In the cookie statement under https://www.cookiebot.com/de/cookie-declaration/ see which other cookies can be used.

According to Cybot's privacy policy, the company does not sell personal data. However, Cybot does share data with trusted third parties or subcontractors who help the company achieve its business goals. Data is also shared when legally required.

How long and where is the data stored?

All data collected is transferred, stored and forwarded exclusively within the European Union. The data is stored in an Azure data center (cloud provider is Microsoft). https://azure.microsoft.com/de-de/explore/global-infrastructure/geographies/ Find out more about all "Azure regions". All user data is deleted by Cookiebot after 12 months from registration (cookie consent) or immediately after termination of the Cookiebot service.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

You have the right to access and delete your personal data at any time. You can prevent data collection and storage, for example, by rejecting the use of cookies via the cookie notice. Your browser offers another option for preventing data processing or managing it according to your wishes. Cookie management works slightly differently depending on the browser. Under the "Cookies" section you will find the relevant links to the respective instructions for the most popular browsers.

legal basis

If you agree to cookies, these cookies will process and store your personal data. If we receive your consent (Article 6 Paragraph 1 Letter a of GDPR) cookies, this consent is also the legal basis for the use of cookies or the processing of your data. Cookiebot is used to manage consent to cookies and to enable you to give your consent. The use of this software enables us to operate the website efficiently and in compliance with the law, which is a legitimate interest (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR).

If you would like to learn more about the privacy policy of “Cookiebot” or the company behind it, Cybot, we recommend that you read the privacy policy at https://www.cookiebot.com/de/privacy-policy/ to read through.

Security & Anti-Spam

What is security & anti-spam software?

With so-called security and anti-spam software, you and we can protect ourselves from various spam or phishing emails and possible other cyber attacks. Spam is understood to be advertising emails from mass mailings that you did not request. Such emails are also called data garbage and can also incur costs. Phishing emails, on the other hand, are messages that aim to build trust via fake messages or websites in order to obtain personal data. Anti-spam software usually protects against unwanted spam messages or malicious emails that could, for example, introduce viruses into our system. We also use general firewall and security systems that protect our computers from unwanted network attacks.

Why do we use security & anti-spam software?

We place particular emphasis on security on our website. After all, it's not just about our security, but above all about yours. Unfortunately, cyber threats are now part of everyday life in the world of IT and the Internet. Hackers often try to steal personal data from an IT system using a cyber attack. And that's why a good defense system is absolutely essential. A security system monitors all incoming and outgoing connections to our network or computer. To achieve even greater security against cyber attacks, we use other external security services in addition to the standardized security systems on our computer. This makes it easier to prevent unauthorized traffic of data and protects us against cybercrime.

What data is processed by security and anti-spam software?

Exactly which data is collected and stored depends on the respective service. However, we always endeavor to only use programs that collect data very sparingly or only store data that is necessary to fulfill the service offered. In principle, the service can store data such as name, address, IP address, email address and technical data such as browser type or browser version. Any performance and log data can also be collected in order to detect possible incoming threats in good time. This data is processed as part of the services and in compliance with applicable laws. For US providers, this also includes the GDPR (via the standard contractual clauses). In some cases, these security services also work with third parties who can store and/or process data under instruction and in accordance with data protection guidelines and other security measures. Data is usually stored via cookies.

duration of data processing

We will inform you below about the duration of data processing if we have further information. For example, security programs store data until you or we revoke the data storage. In general, personal data is only stored for as long as it is absolutely necessary to provide the services. In many cases, unfortunately, we do not have precise information from the providers about the length of storage.

right of objection

You also have the right and option to revoke your consent to the use of cookies or third-party security software at any time. This works either via our cookie management tool or via other opt-out functions. For example, you can also prevent data collection through cookies by managing, deactivating or deleting cookies in your browser.

Since such security services can also use cookies, we recommend that you read our general privacy policy on cookies. To find out exactly which of your data is stored and processed, you should read the privacy policies of the respective tools.

legal basis

We use the security services primarily on the basis of our legitimate interests (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR) in a good security system against various cyber attacks.

Certain processing operations, in particular the use of cookies and the use of security functions, require your consent. If you have consented that your data can be processed and stored by integrated security services, this consent is considered the legal basis for data processing (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR). Most of the services we use set cookies in your browser to store data. We therefore recommend that you read our privacy policy on cookies carefully and view the privacy policy or cookie guidelines of the respective service provider.

Information about specific tools – if available – can be found in the following sections.

Google reCAPTCHA Privacy Policy

What is reCAPTCHA?

Our primary goal is to make our website as secure and protected as possible for you and for us. To ensure this, we use Google reCAPTCHA from Google Inc. For the European region, the company Google Ireland Limited (Gordon House, Barrow Street Dublin 4, Ireland) is responsible for all Google services. With reCAPTCHA we can determine whether you are really a flesh-and-blood human and not a robot or other spam software. By spam we mean any unwanted information that comes to us electronically without being asked for. With classic CAPTCHAS you usually had to solve text or picture puzzles to verify your identity. With reCAPTCHA from Google we usually don't have to bother you with such puzzles. In most cases it is enough if you simply tick a box to confirm that you are not a bot. With the new Invisible reCAPTCHA version you don't even have to tick a box. You can find out how this works exactly and, above all, which data is used for this in the course of this privacy policy.

reCAPTCHA is a free captcha service from Google that protects websites from spam software and abuse by non-human visitors. This service is most commonly used when you fill out forms on the Internet. A captcha service is a type of automatic Turing test designed to ensure that an action on the Internet is performed by a human and not a bot. In the classic Turing test (named after the computer scientist Alan Turing), a human determines the difference between a bot and a human. With captchas, the computer or a software program also takes over this task. Classic captchas work with small tasks that are easy for people to solve, but pose considerable difficulties for machines. With reCAPTCHA, you no longer have to actively solve puzzles. The tool uses modern risk techniques to distinguish people from bots. Here you only have to tick the text box "I am not a robot", or with Invisible reCAPTCHA, even that is no longer necessary. With reCAPTCHA, a JavaScript element is integrated into the source code and then the tool runs in the background and analyses your user behaviour. The software calculates a so-called Captcha score from these user actions. Google uses this score to calculate how likely it is that you are a human before you enter the Captcha. reCAPTCHA or Captchas in general are always used when bots could manipulate or misuse certain actions (such as registrations, surveys, etc.).

Why do we use reCAPTCHA on our website?

We only want to welcome flesh-and-blood people to our site. Bots or spam software of all kinds can safely stay at home. That's why we do everything we can to protect ourselves and offer you the best possible user experience. For this reason, we use Google reCAPTCHA from Google. This way we can be pretty sure that we will remain a "bot-free" website. By using reCAPTCHA, data is sent to Google to determine whether you are really a human. reCAPTCHA therefore serves to ensure the security of our website and, subsequently, your security too. For example, without reCAPTCHA, a bot could register as many email addresses as possible during registration in order to then "spam" forums or blogs with unwanted advertising content. With reCAPTCHA we can avoid such bot attacks.

What data is stored by reCAPTCHA?

reCAPTCHA collects personal data from users to determine whether the actions on our website really come from humans. This means that the IP address and other data that Google needs for the reCAPTCHA service can be sent to Google. IP addresses are almost always shortened within the member states of the EU or other contracting states to the Agreement on the European Economic Area before the data ends up on a server in the USA. The IP address is not combined with other data from Google unless you are logged in to your Google account while using reCAPTCHA. First, the reCAPTCHA algorithm checks whether Google cookies from other Google services (YouTube, Gmail, etc.) have already been placed on your browser. Then reCAPTCHA sets an additional cookie in your browser and takes a snapshot of your browser window.

The following list of collected browser and user data is not intended to be complete. Rather, it is an example of data that, to our knowledge, is processed by Google.

• Referrer URL (the address of the page from which the visitor comes)
• IP address (e.g. 256.123.123.1)
• Information about the operating system (the software that enables your computer to operate. Common operating systems are Windows, Mac OS X or Linux)
• Cookies (small text files that store data in your browser)
• Mouse and keyboard behavior (every action you perform with the mouse or keyboard is saved)
• Date and language settings (which language or date you have preset on your PC is saved)
• All Javascript objects (JavaScript is a programming language that allows websites to adapt to the user. JavaScript objects can collect all kinds of data under one name)
• Screen resolution (shows how many pixels the image consists of)

It is undisputed that Google uses and analyses this data even before you click on the checkbox "I am not a robot". With the Invisible reCAPTCHA version, you don't even have to tick the box and the entire recognition process runs in the background. Google does not tell you in detail how much and what data Google stores.

The following cookies are used by reCAPTCHA: Here we refer to the reCAPTCHA demo version from Google at https://www.google.com/recaptcha/api2/demo. All of these cookies require a unique identifier for tracking purposes. Here is a list of cookies that Google reCAPTCHA has set on the demo version:

Name: IDE
Value: WqTUmlnmv_qXyi_DGNPLESKnRNrpgXoy1K-pAZtAkMbHI-122893266-8
Purpose of use: This cookie is set by the company DoubleClick (also owned by Google) to register and report the actions of a user on the website when dealing with advertisements. This allows the advertising effectiveness to be measured and appropriate optimization measures to be taken. IDE is stored in browsers under the domain doubleclick.net.
Expiration date: after one year

Name: 1P_JAR
Value: 2019-5-14-12
Purpose of use: This cookie collects statistics on website usage and measures conversions. A conversion occurs, for example, when a user becomes a buyer. The cookie is also used to show users relevant advertisements. The cookie can also be used to prevent a user from seeing the same ad more than once.
Expiration date: after a month

Name: ANID
Value: U7j1v3dZa1228932660xgZFmiqWppRWKOr
Purpose of use: We were unable to find out much information about this cookie. In Google's privacy policy, the cookie is mentioned in connection with "advertising cookies" such as "DSID", "FLC", "AID", "TAID". ANID is stored under the domain google.com.
Expiration date: after 9 months

Name: CONSENT
Value: YES+AT.de+20150628-20-0
Purpose of use: The cookie stores the status of a user's consent to use various Google services. CONSENT is also used for security purposes to verify users, prevent login information fraud, and protect user data from unauthorized attacks.
Expiration date: after 19 years

Name: NID
Value: 0WmuWqy122893266zILzqV_nmt3sDXwPeM5Q
Purpose of use: NID is used by Google to tailor advertisements to your Google search. With the help of the cookie, Google "remembers" your most frequently entered search queries or your previous interaction with ads. This way, you always get tailored advertisements. The cookie contains a unique ID to collect the user's personal settings for advertising purposes.
Expiration date: after 6 months

Name: DV
Value: gEAABBCjJMXcI0dSAAAANbqc122893266-4
Purpose of use: As soon as you have checked the "I am not a robot" box, this cookie is set. The cookie is used by Google Analytics for personalized advertising. DV collects information in an anonymized form and is also used to make user distinctions.
Expiration date: after 10 minutes

Note: This list cannot claim to be complete, since experience has shown that Google continually changes the choice of cookies.

How long and where is the data stored?

By inserting reCAPTCHA, your data is transferred to the Google server. Google does not make it clear where exactly this data is stored, even after repeated inquiries. Without receiving confirmation from Google, it can be assumed that data such as mouse interaction, time spent on the website or language settings are stored on the European or American Google servers. The IP address that your browser sends to Google is generally not merged with other Google data from other Google services. However, if you are logged into your Google account while using the reCAPTCHA plug-in, the data will be merged. The different data protection regulations of Google apply.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

If you do not want any data about you and your behavior to be sent to Google, you must log out of Google completely and delete all Google cookies before visiting our website or using the reCAPTCHA software. In principle, the data is automatically sent to Google as soon as you visit our site. To delete this data again, you must contact Google Support on https://support.google.com/?hl=de&tid=122893266 contact us.

Therefore, when you use our website, you agree that Google LLC and its representatives automatically collect, process and use data.

Please note that when using this tool, your data may also be stored and processed outside the EU. Most third countries (including the USA) are not considered safe under current European data protection law. Data may therefore not simply be transferred to, stored and processed in unsafe third countries unless there are suitable guarantees (such as EU standard contractual clauses) between us and the non-European service provider.

legal basis

If you have consented to the use of Google reCAPTCHA, the legal basis for the corresponding data processing is this consent. This consent is, according to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent) the legal basis for the processing of personal data, as it may occur when collected by Google reCAPTCHA.

We also have a legitimate interest in using Google reCAPTCHA to optimize our online service and make it more secure. The legal basis for this is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interests)However, we only use Google reCAPTCHA if you have given your consent.

Google processes your data in the USA, among other places. Google is an active participant in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Google uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46, Paragraphs 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to and stored in third countries (such as the USA). Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Google undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

The Google Ads Data Processing Terms, which refer to the standard contractual clauses, can be found at https://business.safety.google/intl/de/adsprocessorterms/.

You can learn more about reCAPTCHA on Google’s web developer page at https://developers.google.com/recaptcha/. Google does go into more detail about the technical development of reCAPTCHA here, but you will not find any precise information about data storage and data protection-related topics there either. A good overview of the basic use of data by Google can be found in the company's own privacy policy on https://policies.google.com/privacy.

Audio & Video Introduction

What are audio and video elements?

We have integrated audio and video elements into our website so that you can watch videos or listen to music/podcasts directly via our website. The content is provided by service providers. All content is therefore obtained from the providers' corresponding servers.

These are integrated functional elements from platforms such as YouTube, Vimeo or Spotify. The use of these portals is usually free, but paid content can also be published. With the help of these integrated elements, you can listen to or watch the respective content on our website.

If you use audio or video elements on our website, your personal data may also be transmitted to, processed and stored by the service providers.

Why do we use audio & video elements on our website?

Of course, we want to offer you the best on our website. And we are aware that content is no longer just conveyed in text and static images. Instead of simply giving you a link to a video, we offer you audio and video formats directly on our website that are entertaining or informative and, ideally, even both. This expands our service and makes it easier for you to access interesting content. This means that in addition to our texts and images, we also offer video and/or audio content.

What data is stored by audio & video elements?

When you visit a page on our website that has an embedded video, for example, your server connects to the service provider's server. In the process, your data is also transferred to the third-party provider and stored there. Some data is collected and stored regardless of whether you have an account with the third-party provider or not. This usually includes your IP address, browser type, operating system, and other general information about your device. Furthermore, most providers also collect information about your web activity. This includes session duration, bounce rate, which button you clicked on, or which website you used to use the service. All of this information is usually stored via cookies or pixel tags (also called web beacons). Pseudonymized data is usually stored in cookies in your browser. You can always find out exactly which data is stored and processed in the privacy policy of the respective provider.

duration of data processing

You can find out exactly how long the data is stored on the third-party providers' servers either further down in the data protection text of the respective tool or in the provider's data protection declaration. In principle, personal data is only processed for as long as it is absolutely necessary to provide our services or products. This generally also applies to third-party providers. You can usually assume that certain data will be stored on the third-party providers' servers for several years. Data can be stored for different lengths of time, especially in cookies. Some cookies are deleted as soon as you leave the website, others can be stored in your browser for several years.

right of objection

You also have the right and the option to revoke your consent to the use of cookies or third-party providers at any time. This works either via our cookie management tool or via other opt-out functions. For example, you can also prevent data collection through cookies by managing, deactivating or deleting cookies in your browser. The legality of the processing up to the time of revocation remains unaffected.

Since the integrated audio and video functions on our site usually also use cookies, you should also read our general privacy policy on cookies. In the privacy policies of the respective third-party providers, you can find out more about how your data is handled and stored.

legal basis

If you have consented that your data can be processed and stored through embedded audio and video elements, this consent is considered the legal basis for data processing (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR)In principle, your data will also be processed on the basis of our legitimate interest (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR) to ensure fast and good communication with you or other customers and business partners. However, we only use the integrated audio and video elements if you have given your consent.

YouTube privacy policy

What is YouTube?

We have integrated YouTube videos into our website. This allows us to present interesting videos to you directly on our site. YouTube is a video portal that has been a subsidiary of Google since 2006. The video portal is operated by YouTube, LLC, 901 Cherry Ave., San Bruno, CA 94066, USA. When you visit a page on our website that has an embedded YouTube video, your browser automatically connects to the YouTube or Google servers. Various data is transferred (depending on the settings). Google Ireland Limited (Gordon House, Barrow Street Dublin 4, Ireland) is responsible for all data processing in Europe.

Below we would like to explain in more detail which data is processed, why we have embedded YouTube videos and how you can manage or delete your data.

On YouTube, users can watch, rate, comment on and upload videos for free. Over the last few years, YouTube has become one of the most important social media channels in the world. To enable us to display videos on our website, YouTube provides a code snippet that we have integrated into our site.

Why do we use YouTube videos on our website?

YouTube is the video platform with the most visitors and the best content. We strive to offer you the best possible user experience on our website. And of course, interesting videos are a must. With the help of our embedded videos, we provide you with additional helpful content in addition to our texts and images. In addition, our website is easier to find on the Google search engine thanks to the embedded videos. Even if we place advertisements via Google Ads, Google can - thanks to the data collected - only show these advertisements to people who are interested in our offers.

What data does YouTube store?

As soon as you visit one of our pages that has a YouTube video embedded, YouTube sets at least one cookie that stores your IP address and our URL. If you are logged into your YouTube account, YouTube can usually assign your interactions on our website to your profile using cookies. This includes data such as session duration, bounce rate, approximate location, technical information such as browser type, screen resolution or your internet provider. Other data may include contact details, any ratings, sharing content via social media or adding to your favorites on YouTube.

If you are not logged into a Google account or a YouTube account, Google stores data with a unique identifier linked to your device, browser or app. For example, your preferred language setting is retained. But much interaction data cannot be stored because fewer cookies are set.

In the following list we show cookies that were set in the browser in a test. On the one hand we show cookies that are set without a logged in YouTube account. On the other hand we show cookies that are set with a logged in account. The list cannot claim to be complete because the user data always depends on the interactions on YouTube.

Name: YSC
Value: b9-CV6ojI5Y122893266-1
Purpose of use: This cookie registers a unique ID to store statistics of the video watched.
Expiration date: after the end of the session

Name: PREF
Value: f1=50000000
Purpose of use: This cookie also registers your unique ID. Google uses PREF to get statistics on how you use YouTube videos on our website.
Expiration date: after 8 months

Name: GPS
Value: 1
Purpose of use: This cookie registers your unique ID on mobile devices to track GPS location.
Expiration date: after 30 minutes

Name: VISITOR_INFO1_LIVE
Value: 95Chz8bagyU
Purpose of use: This cookie tries to estimate the bandwidth of the user on our websites (with embedded YouTube video).
Expiration date: after 8 months

Additional cookies that are set when you are logged in with your YouTube account:

Name: APISID
Value: zILLlvClZSkqGsSwI/AU1aZI6HY7122893266-
Purpose of use: This cookie is used to create a profile of your interests. The data is used for personalized advertisements.
Expiration date: after 2 years

Name: CONSENT
Value: YES+AT.de+20150628-20-0
Purpose of use: The cookie stores the status of a user's consent to use various Google services. CONSENT is also used for security purposes to verify users and protect user data from unauthorized attacks.
Expiration date: after 19 years

Name: HSID
Value: AcRwpgUik9Dveht0I
Purpose of use: This cookie is used to create a profile of your interests. This data helps to display personalized advertising.
Expiration date: after 2 years

Name: LOGIN_INFO
Value: AFmmF2swRQIhALl6aL…
Purpose of use: This cookie stores information about your login data.
Expiration date: after 2 years

Name: SAPISID
Value: 7oaPxoG-pZsJuuF5/AnUdDUIsJ9iJz2vdM
Purpose of use: This cookie works by uniquely identifying your browser and device. It is used to build a profile of your interests.
Expiration date: after 2 years

Name: SID
Value: oQfNKjAsI122893266-
Purpose of use: This cookie stores your Google Account ID and your last login time in a digitally signed and encrypted form.
Expiration date: after 2 years

Name: SIDCC
Value: AN0-TYuqub2JOcDTyL
Purpose of use: This cookie stores information about how you use the website and what advertisements you may have seen before visiting our site.
Expiration date: after 3 months

How long and where is the data stored?

The data that YouTube receives and processes from you is stored on Google servers. Most of these servers are located in America. https://www.google.com/about/datacenters/locations/?hl=de You can see exactly where the Google data centers are located. Your data is distributed across the servers. This means that the data can be accessed more quickly and is better protected against manipulation.

Google stores the data collected for different lengths of time. Some data you can delete at any time, some is automatically deleted after a limited period of time, and some is stored by Google for a longer period of time. Some data (such as items from "My Activity", photos or documents, products) stored in your Google Account remains stored until you delete it. Even if you are not signed in to a Google Account, you can delete some data associated with your device, browser or app.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

In principle, you can delete data in your Google account manually. With the automatic deletion function for location and activity data introduced in 2019, information is stored for either 3 or 18 months and then deleted, depending on your decision.

Regardless of whether you have a Google account or not, you can configure your browser to delete or deactivate cookies from Google. This works in different ways depending on which browser you use. Under the "Cookies" section you will find the relevant links to the respective instructions for the most popular browsers.

If you do not want cookies at all, you can set your browser to always inform you when a cookie is about to be placed. This way you can decide for each individual cookie whether you want to allow it or not.

legal basis

If you have consented that your data can be processed and stored through embedded YouTube elements, this consent is considered the legal basis for data processing (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR)In principle, your data will also be processed on the basis of our legitimate interest (Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR) on fast and good communication with you or other customers and business partners. However, we only use the integrated YouTube elements if you have given your consent. YouTube also sets cookies in your browser to store data. We therefore recommend that you read our privacy policy on cookies carefully and view the privacy statement or cookie guidelines of the respective service provider.

Youtube processes your data in the USA, among other places. Youtube and Google are active participants in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Google uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46, Paragraphs 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to and stored in third countries (such as the USA). Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Google undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

The Google Ads Data Processing Terms, which refer to the standard contractual clauses, can be found at https://business.safety.google/intl/de/adsprocessorterms/.

Since YouTube is a subsidiary of Google, there is a common privacy policy. If you would like to learn more about how your data is handled, we recommend that you read the privacy policy at https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=de.

YouTube Subscribe Button Privacy Policy

We have integrated the YouTube Subscribe button on our website. You can usually recognize the button by the classic YouTube logo. The logo shows the words "Subscribe" or "YouTube" in white font on a red background and the white "Play symbol" to the left of it. The button can also be displayed in a different design.

Our YouTube channel always offers you funny, interesting or exciting videos. With the built-in "Subscribe" button you can subscribe to our channel directly from our website and do not have to visit the YouTube website. We want to make access to our comprehensive content as easy as possible for you. Please note that this means that YouTube can save and process data about you.

If you see a built-in subscription button on our site, YouTube - according to Google - sets at least one cookie. This cookie stores your IP address and our URL. YouTube can also learn information about your browser, your approximate location and your default language. In our test, the following four cookies were set without being logged in to YouTube:

Name: YSC
Value: b9-CV6ojI5122893266Y
Purpose of use: This cookie registers a unique ID to store statistics of the video watched.
Expiration date: after the end of the session

Name: PREF
Value: f1=50000000
Purpose of use: This cookie also registers your unique ID. Google uses PREF to get statistics on how you use YouTube videos on our website.
Expiration date: after 8 months

Name: GPS
Value: 1
Purpose of use: This cookie registers your unique ID on mobile devices to track GPS location.
Expiration date: after 30 minutes

Name: VISITOR_INFO1_LIVE
Value: 12289326695Chz8bagyU
Purpose of use: This cookie tries to estimate the bandwidth of the user on our websites (with embedded YouTube video).
Expiration date: after 8 months

Note: These cookies were set after a test and cannot claim to be complete.

If you are logged into your YouTube account, YouTube can save many of your actions/interactions on our website using cookies and associate them with your YouTube account. This gives YouTube information such as how long you surf our site, what browser type you use, what screen resolution you prefer or what actions you perform.

YouTube uses this data to improve its own services and offers and to provide analyses and statistics for advertisers (who use Google Ads).

YouTube Video Widget Privacy Policy

We also use the YouTube video widget on our website. The service provider is the American company Google Inc. In Europe, the company Google Ireland Limited (Gordon House, Barrow Street Dublin 4, Ireland) is responsible for all Google services.

Google processes your data in the USA, among other places. YouTube and Google are active participants in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Google uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46, Paragraphs 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to and stored in third countries (such as the USA). Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Google undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

The Google Ads Data Processing Terms, which refer to the standard contractual clauses, can be found at https://business.safety.google/intl/de/adsprocessorterms/.

You can find out more about the data processed through the use of the YouTube video widget in the Privacy Policy on https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=de.

web design introduction

What is web design?

We use various tools on our website that serve our web design. Web design is not, as is often assumed, just about making our website look pretty, but also about functionality and performance. But of course the right look of a website is also one of the major goals of professional web design. Web design is a sub-area of media design and deals with both the visual and the structural and functional design of a website. The aim is to use web design to improve your experience on our website. In web design jargon, this is referred to as user experience (UX) and usability. User experience refers to all the impressions and experiences that website visitors have on a website. A sub-point of user experience is usability. This is about the user-friendliness of a website. The main emphasis here is on ensuring that content, subpages or products are clearly structured and that you can find what you are looking for quickly and easily. In order to offer you the best possible experience on our website, we also use so-called web design tools from third parties. In this privacy policy, the category “web design” includes all services that improve the design of our website. These can be, for example, fonts, various plugins or other integrated web design functions.

Why do we use web design tools?

How you absorb information on a website depends very much on the structure, functionality and visual perception of the website. This is why good and professional web design has become increasingly important for us. We are constantly working on improving our website and see this as an extended service for you as a website visitor. Furthermore, a beautiful and functioning website also has economic advantages for us. After all, you will only visit us and use our services if you feel completely comfortable.

What data is stored by web design tools?

When you visit our website, web design elements may be integrated into our pages that can also process data. Of course, the exact data involved depends largely on the tools used. Below you can see exactly which tools we use for our website. For more information about data processing, we recommend that you read the respective privacy policy of the tools used. This is usually where you can find out which data is processed, whether cookies are used and how long the data is stored. Fonts such as Google Fonts, for example, also automatically transmit information such as language settings, IP address, browser version, browser screen resolution and browser name to Google servers.

duration of data processing

How long data is processed is very individual and depends on the web design elements used. If cookies are used, for example, the storage period can be as short as a minute, but also as long as a few years. Please do your research on this. We recommend that you read our general text section on cookies and the privacy statements of the tools used. There you will usually find out which cookies are used exactly and what information is stored in them. Google font files, for example, are stored for a year. This is to improve the loading time of a website. In principle, data is only ever stored for as long as it is necessary to provide the service. If required by law, data can also be stored for longer.

right of objection

You also have the right and the option to revoke your consent to the use of cookies or third-party providers at any time. This works either via our cookie management tool or via other opt-out functions. You can also prevent data collection through cookies by managing, deactivating or deleting cookies in your browser. However, there is also data under web design elements (mostly fonts) that cannot be deleted quite so easily. This is the case when data is automatically collected directly when a page is accessed and transmitted to a third-party provider (such as Google). In this case, please contact the support of the relevant provider. In the case of Google, you can reach support at https://support.google.com/?hl=de.

legal basis

If you have consented to the use of web design tools, the legal basis for the corresponding data processing is this consent. According to Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent), this consent represents the legal basis for the processing of personal data, as may occur when data is collected by web design tools. We also have a legitimate interest in improving the web design on our website. After all, only then can we provide you with a beautiful and professional web offering. The corresponding legal basis for this is Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interests). However, we only use web design tools if you have given your consent. We definitely want to emphasize this again here.

Information about specific web design tools – if available – can be found in the following sections.

Font Awesome Local Privacy Policy

We use the Font Awesome Local font and icon toolkit for our website. The service provider is the American company Fonticons, Inc., 307 S Main St Ste 202 Bentonville, AR, 72712-9214, USA.

We have integrated the Font Awesome fonts locally, i.e. on our web server - not on the Font Awesome servers. This means there is no connection to Font Awesome servers and therefore no data is transferred or stored to this company.

You can find out more about the data processed through the use of Font Awesome Local in the privacy policy on https://fontawesome.com/privacy.

Google Fonts Local Privacy Policy

We use Google Fonts from Google Inc. on our website. The company responsible for the European area is Google Ireland Limited (Gordon House, Barrow Street Dublin 4, Ireland). We have integrated the Google fonts locally, i.e. on our web server - not on Google's servers. This means there is no connection to Google servers and therefore no data transfer or storage.

What are Google Fonts?

Google Fonts was formerly known as Google Web Fonts. It is an interactive directory with over 800 fonts that Google free of charge. With Google Fonts you can use fonts without uploading them to your own server. However, in order to prevent any information being transferred to Google servers, we have downloaded the fonts to our server. In this way we act in accordance with data protection regulations and do not send any data to Google Fonts.

Online Map Services Introduction

What are online map services?

We also use online map services as an extended service for our website. Google Maps is probably the service you are most familiar with, but there are also other providers who specialize in creating digital maps. Such services make it possible to display locations, route plans or other geographical information directly on our website. With an integrated map service, you no longer have to leave our website to view the route to a location, for example. In order for the online map to work on our website, map sections are integrated using HTML code. The services can then display street maps, the earth's surface or aerial or satellite images. If you use the built-in map service, data is also transferred to the tool used and stored there. This data may also include personal data.

Why do we use online mapping services on our website?

Generally speaking, it is our aim to offer you a pleasant time on our website. And of course, your time is only pleasant if you can find your way around our website easily and find all the information you need quickly and easily. That's why we thought an online map system could be a significant improvement to our service on the website. Without leaving our website, you can use the map system to easily view route descriptions, locations or even sights. It is also super practical, of course, that you can see at a glance where our company is based so that you can find us quickly and easily. As you can see, there are simply many advantages and we clearly see online map services on our website as part of our customer service.

What data is stored by online map services?

If you open a page on our website that has an online map function built in, personal data can be transmitted to the respective service and stored there. This is usually your IP address, which can also be used to determine your approximate location. In addition to the IP address, data such as search terms entered and longitude and latitude coordinates are also stored. If you enter an address for route planning, for example, this data is also stored. The data is not stored by us, but on the servers of the integrated tools. You can imagine it like this: You are on our website, but when you interact with a map service, this interaction actually takes place on their website. In order for the service to function properly, at least one cookie is usually placed in your browser. Google Maps, for example, also uses cookies to record user behavior and thus optimize its own service and display personalized advertising. You can find out more about cookies in our "Cookies" section.

How long and where is the data stored?

Each online map service processes different user data. If we have further information, we will inform you about the duration of data processing further down in the relevant sections for the individual tools. In principle, personal data is only stored for as long as it is necessary to provide the service. Google Maps, for example, stores certain data for a set period of time, while you must delete other data yourself. Mapbox, for example, stores the IP address for 30 days and then deletes it. As you can see, each tool stores data for different lengths of time. We therefore recommend that you take a close look at the data protection declarations of the tools you use.

The providers also use cookies to store data on your user behavior with the map service. You can find more general information about cookies in our "Cookies" section, but you can also find out which cookies can be used in the privacy statements of the individual providers. However, this is usually only an example list and is not complete.

right of objection

You always have the option and the right to access your personal data and to object to its use and processing. You can also revoke your consent that you have given us at any time. The easiest way to do this is usually to use the cookie consent tool. However, there are also other opt-out tools that you can use. You can also manage, delete or deactivate any cookies set by the providers you use with just a few clicks of the mouse. However, it may then happen that some functions of the service no longer work as usual. How you manage cookies in your browser also depends on the browser you use. In the "Cookies" section you will also find links to the instructions for the most important browsers.

legal basis

If you have consented to the use of an online map service, the legal basis for the corresponding data processing is this consent. According to Art. 6 Paragraph 1 Letter a of GDPR (consent), this consent represents the legal basis for the processing of personal data, as may occur when collected by an online map service.

We also have a legitimate interest in using an online map service to optimize our service on our website. The legal basis for this is Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR (legitimate interests). However, we only use an online map service if you have given your consent. We would like to make this clear again at this point.

Information on special online map services – if available – can be found in the following sections.

Google Maps Privacy Policy

What is Google Maps?

We use Google Maps from Google Inc. on our website. In Europe, Google Ireland Limited (Gordon House, Barrow Street Dublin 4, Ireland) is responsible for all Google services. With Google Maps, we can show you locations better and thus adapt our service to your needs. By using Google Maps, data is transferred to Google and stored on Google servers. Here we want to go into more detail about what Google Maps is, why we use this Google service, what data is stored and how you can prevent this.

Google Maps is an Internet map service from Google. With Google Maps, you can search online for the exact locations of cities, attractions, accommodations or companies using a PC, tablet or app. If companies are represented on Google My Business, additional information about the company is displayed in addition to the location. To show how to get there, map sections of a location can be integrated into a website using HTML code. Google Maps shows the earth's surface as a street map or as an aerial or satellite image. Thanks to the Street View images and the high-quality satellite images, very precise representations are possible.

Why do we use Google Maps on our website?

All our efforts on this site are aimed at providing you with a useful and meaningful time on our website. By integrating Google Maps, we can provide you with the most important information about various locations. You can see at a glance where our company is based. The directions always show you the best or fastest way to get to us. You can access the route for routes by car, public transport, on foot or by bike. For us, providing Google Maps is part of our customer service.

What data does Google Maps store?

In order for Google Maps to be able to fully offer its service, the company must record and save data from you. This includes the search terms entered, your IP address and also the latitude and longitude coordinates. If you use the route planner function, the starting address entered is also saved. However, this data storage takes place on the Google Maps websites. We can only inform you about this, but have no influence. Since we have integrated Google Maps into our website, Google places at least one cookie (name: NID) in your browser. This cookie stores data about your user behavior. Google uses this data primarily to optimize its own services and to provide you with individual, personalized advertising.

The following cookie is set in your browser due to the integration of Google Maps:

Name: NID
Value: 188=h26c1Ktha7fCQTx8rXgLyATyITJ122893266-5
Purpose of use: NID is used by Google to tailor advertisements to your Google search. With the help of the cookie, Google "remembers" your most frequently entered search queries or your previous interaction with ads. This way, you always get tailored advertisements. The cookie contains a unique ID that Google uses to collect your personal settings for advertising purposes.
Expiration date: after 6 months

Note: We cannot guarantee the completeness of the information stored. Changes can never be ruled out, especially when using cookies. In order to identify the cookie NID, a separate test page was created where only Google Maps was integrated.

How long and where is the data stored?

The Google servers are located in data centers all over the world. However, most of the servers are located in America. For this reason, your data is increasingly stored in the USA. Here you can find out exactly where the Google data centers are located: https://www.google.com/about/datacenters/locations/?hl=de

Google distributes the data across different storage devices. This means that the data can be accessed more quickly and is better protected against any attempts at manipulation. Each data center also has special emergency programs. If, for example, there are problems with Google hardware or a natural disaster shuts down the servers, the data will almost certainly still remain protected.

Google stores some data for a set period of time. For other data, Google only offers the option of deleting it manually. The company also anonymizes information (such as advertising data) in server logs by deleting part of the IP address and cookie information after 9 or 18 months.

How can I delete my data or prevent data storage?

With the automatic deletion function for location and activity data introduced in 2019, information on location determination and web/app activity is stored for either 3 or 18 months - depending on your decision - and then deleted. You can also manually delete this data from your history at any time via your Google account. If you want to completely prevent your location tracking, you must pause the "Web and app activity" section in your Google account. Click "Data and personalization" and then on the "Activity settings" option. Here you can switch activities on or off.

You can also deactivate, delete or manage individual cookies in your browser. This works a little differently depending on which browser you use. Under the "Cookies" section you will find the relevant links to the instructions for the most popular browsers.

If you do not want cookies at all, you can set your browser to always inform you when a cookie is about to be placed. This way you can decide for each individual cookie whether you want to allow it or not.

legal basis

If you have consented to the use of Google Maps, the legal basis for the corresponding data processing is this consent. According to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent) the legal basis for the processing of personal data, as it may occur when collected by Google Maps.

We also have a legitimate interest in using Google Maps to optimise our online service. The legal basis for this is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interests)However, we only use Google Maps if you have given your consent.

Google processes your data in the USA, among other places. Google is an active participant in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework, which regulates the correct and secure transfer of personal data from EU citizens to the USA. You can find more information on https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.

In addition, Google uses so-called standard contractual clauses (= Art. 46, Paragraphs 2 and 3 GDPR). Standard contractual clauses (SCC) are templates provided by the EU Commission and are intended to ensure that your data complies with European data protection standards even if it is transferred to and stored in third countries (such as the USA). Through the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and the standard contractual clauses, Google undertakes to comply with European data protection standards when processing your relevant data, even if the data is stored, processed and managed in the USA. These clauses are based on an implementing decision of the EU Commission. You can find the decision and the corresponding standard contractual clauses here, among other places: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2021/914/oj?locale=de

The Google Ads Data Processing Terms, which refer to the standard contractual clauses, can be found at https://business.safety.google/intl/de/adsprocessorterms/.

If you would like to learn more about Google’s data processing, we recommend that you read the company’s own privacy policy at https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=de.

Content Search Provider Introduction

What is a content search provider?

We have now published a lot of content on our website. And of course we don't want it to be forgotten just because it can't be found. That's why we use a content search provider on our website. You're probably familiar with large search engines like Google. Content search providers are basically also search engines, but unlike Google, they don't search the entire web for content, just the website you're on. You can enter terms that match the content you're looking for in a text field, and the search program will find the posts you're looking for. If you use the integrated search function, your personal data may also be processed.

Why do we use a content search provider?

If you look around our website, you will quickly notice how much useful content we have published over the years. There are real treasures there and we want you to find them quickly without having to click around for a long time. With a content search function directly on our website, you can quickly and easily find the content you are looking for using keywords that match the topic you are looking for. This feature is really practical and we also see it as our job to make your life on our website as pleasant and helpful as possible. That is why we have decided to integrate a content search program into our website.

Which data is processed?

If you use the search function on our website, the integrated content search provider (such as Algolia Places or Giphy) can automatically receive and save data from you. This includes technical data about your browser as well as data such as your IP address, device ID and the search terms entered. Please note that IP addresses are personal data. The providers' privacy policies state that this information is collected and stored in order to increase security and improve their own services. The automatically collected usage data, which does not contain any personal data and is processed in an anonymized form, can also be used for analysis purposes. Some providers also pass this anonymized data on to third parties. To find out more about this, we recommend that you read the specific privacy policies of the individual providers carefully. In order for the services to function properly, cookies are usually also set in your browser. You can find out more about cookies in our general "Cookies" section. You can find out whether and which cookies the individual search tools use – if available – below or in the corresponding data protection declarations of the integrated tools.

How long and where is the data stored?

Basically, every content search provider processes different data. Therefore, this general section cannot go into detail about the data processing of the individual tools. Usually, however, the services only store personal data for as long as this is necessary for the tools to function properly. Some services (such as Giphy) also keep personal data for longer if this is required due to legal obligations. Most providers also keep data in depersonalized form for longer. Content search providers can also use cookies to store various data. You can find out more about this in our general section on cookies. If you want to know something about the specific cookies that a search provider uses, we recommend that you read the privacy policy of the providers we use. You can usually find an example list of the cookies used there.

right of objection

Always be aware: if you do not want your personal data to be processed, no personal data may be processed. You always have the right to access your personal data and to object to its use. You can also withdraw your consent at any time using the cookie consent tool or other opt-out options. You can also easily manage, delete or deactivate cookies used yourself via your browser. If you delete cookies, some of the tool's functions may no longer work. So please do not be surprised. How you manage cookies in your browser also depends on the browser you use. In the "Cookies" section you will also find links to the instructions for the most important browsers.

legal basis

If you have consented to the use of a content search provider, the legal basis for the corresponding data processing is this consent. According to Art. 6 Paragraph 1 Letter a of GDPR (consent), this consent represents the legal basis for the processing of personal data, as may occur when collected by a content search provider.

We also have a legitimate interest in using a content search provider to optimize our service on our website. The legal basis for this is Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR (legitimate interests). However, we only use a content search provider if you have given your consent. We would like to make this clear again at this point.

Information about specific content search providers – if available – can be found in the following sections.

Other Introduction

What falls under “other”?

The "Other" category includes those services that do not fit into one of the above categories. These are usually various plugins and embedded elements that improve our website. These functions are usually obtained from third parties and integrated into our website. For example, these are web search services such as Algolia Place, Giphy, Programmable Search Engine or online services for weather data such as OpenWeather.

Why do we use other third parties?

We want to offer you the best web offering in our industry with our website. A website has long been more than just a business card for a company. Rather, it is a place that should help you find what you are looking for. In order to make our website even more interesting and helpful for you, we use various third-party services.

Which data is processed?

Whenever elements are integrated into our website, your IP address will be transmitted to the respective provider, saved and processed there. This is necessary because otherwise the content will not be sent to your browser and therefore will not be displayed accordingly. It may also happen that service providers also use pixel tags or web beacons. These are small graphics on websites that record a log file and can also create analyses of this file. The providers can use the information obtained to improve their own marketing measures. In addition to pixel tags, such information (such as which button you click or when you access which page) can also be saved in cookies. In addition to analysis data on your web behavior, technical information such as your browser type or operating system can also be saved in cookies. Some providers can also link the data obtained with other internal services or with third-party providers. Each provider handles your data differently. We therefore recommend that you carefully read the data protection declarations of the respective services. We generally endeavor to only use services that handle data protection very carefully.

duration of data processing

We will inform you about the duration of data processing below if we have further information. In general, we only process personal data for as long as it is absolutely necessary to provide our services and products.

legal basis

If we ask for your consent and you agree that we may use the service, this is the legal basis for processing your data (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR). In addition to consent, we have a legitimate interest in analyzing the behavior of website visitors and thus improving our offering technically and economically. The legal basis for this is Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interests). However, we only use the tools if you have given your consent.

Information about the special tools – if available – can be found in the following sections.

explanation of terms used

We always try to make our privacy policy as clear and understandable as possible. However, this is not always easy, especially when it comes to technical and legal topics. It often makes sense to use legal terms (such as personal data) or certain technical expressions (such as cookies, IP address). However, we do not want to use these without explanation. Below you will find an alphabetical list of important terms used that we may not have covered sufficiently in the previous privacy policy. If these terms have been taken from the GDPR and are definitions, we will also list the GDPR texts here and add our own explanations if necessary.

processor

Definition according to Article 4 of the GDPR

For the purposes of this Regulation, the following definitions apply:

"processor" a natural or legal person, public authority, agency or other body which processes personal data on behalf of the controller;

Explanation: As a company and website owner, we are responsible for all data that we process from you. In addition to those responsible, there may also be so-called processors. This includes any company or person who processes personal data on our behalf. Processors can therefore be, in addition to service providers such as tax consultants, hosting or cloud providers, payment or newsletter providers or large companies such as Google or Microsoft.

consent

Definition according to Article 4 of the GDPR

For the purposes of this Regulation, the following definitions apply:

"Consent" any freely given, specific, informed and unambiguous indication of the data subject's wishes by which he or she, by a statement or by a clear affirmative action, signifies agreement to the processing of personal data concerning him or her;

Explanation: As a rule, such consent is given on websites via a cookie consent tool. You are probably familiar with this. Whenever you visit a website for the first time, you are usually asked via a banner whether you agree to data processing. You can usually also make individual settings and decide for yourself which data processing you allow and which you do not. If you do not consent, no personal data may be processed about you. In principle, consent can of course also be given in writing, i.e. not via a tool.

health data

Definition according to Article 4 of the GDPR

For the purposes of this Regulation, the following definitions apply:

"health data" personal data relating to the physical or mental health of a natural person, including the provision of healthcare, and which reveal information about his or her health status;

Explanation: Health data includes all stored information that relates to your own health. This is often data that is also recorded in a patient file. This includes, for example, which medications you use, X-rays, your entire medical history or, usually, your vaccination status.

Personal data

Definition according to Article 4 of the GDPR

For the purposes of this Regulation, the following definitions apply:

"personal data" all 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 or to one or more factors specific to the physical, physiological, genetic, mental, economic, cultural or social identity of that natural person;

Explanation: Personal data is all data that can identify you as a person. This is usually data such as:

• name
• address
• E-mail address
• postal address
• phone number
• birth date
• Identification numbers such as social security number, tax identification number, identity card number or registration number
• Bank details such as account number, credit information, account balances and much more.

According to the European Court of Justice (ECJ), your IP address for the personal data. IT experts can use your IP address to determine at least the approximate location of your device and subsequently you as the connection owner. Therefore, storing an IP address also requires a legal basis in the sense of the GDPR. There are also so-called "special categories" of personal data that are also particularly worthy of protection. These include:

• racial and ethnic origin
• political opinions
• religious or ideological beliefs
• union membership
• genetic data such as data obtained from blood or saliva samples
• biometric data (this is information about mental, physical or behavioral characteristics that can identify a person).
  health data
• Data on sexual orientation or sex life

profiling

Definition according to Article 4 of the GDPR

For the purposes of this Regulation, the following definitions apply:

"profiling" any form of automated processing of personal data consisting of the use of personal data to evaluate certain personal aspects relating to a natural person, in particular to analyse or predict aspects concerning that natural person's performance at work, economic situation, health, personal preferences, interests, reliability, behaviour, location or movements;

Explanation: Profiling involves gathering various information about a person in order to learn more about that person. In the web sector, profiling is often used for advertising purposes or for credit checks. Web or advertising analysis programs collect data about your behavior and interests on a website, for example. This results in a special user profile that can be used to target advertising to a specific target group.

responsible person

Definition according to Article 4 of the GDPR

For the purposes of this Regulation, the following definitions apply:

"person responsible" the natural or legal person, public authority, agency or other body which, alone or jointly with others, determines the purposes and means of the processing of personal data; where the purposes and means of such processing are determined by Union or Member State law, the controller or the specific criteria for its nomination may be provided for by Union or Member State law;

Explanation: In our case, we are responsible for the processing of your personal data and are therefore the “controller”. If we pass on collected data to other service providers for processing, these are “processors”. For this, a “processing agreement (AVV)” must be signed.

processing

Definition according to Article 4 of the GDPR

For the purposes of this Regulation, the following definitions apply:

"Processing" any operation or set of operations which is performed on personal data or on sets of personal data, whether or not by automated means, such as collection, recording, organisation, structuring, storage, adaptation or alteration, retrieval, consultation, use, disclosure by transmission, dissemination or otherwise making available, alignment or linking, restriction, erasure or destruction;

Note: When we talk about processing in our privacy policy, we mean any kind of data processing. As mentioned above in the original GDPR declaration, this includes not only the collection but also the storage and processing of data.

closing remarks

Congratulations! If you are reading these lines, you have really "fought" your way through our entire privacy policy or at least scrolled down to here. As you can see from the scope of our privacy policy, we do not take the protection of your personal data lightly.
It is important to us to inform you to the best of our knowledge and belief about the processing of personal data. We do not only want to tell you which data is processed, but also explain the reasons for using various software programs. Data protection declarations usually sound very technical and legal. However, since most of you are not web developers or lawyers, we wanted to take a different approach linguistically and explain the facts in simple and clear language. Of course, this is not always possible due to the subject matter. Therefore, the most important terms are explained in more detail at the end of the data protection declaration.
If you have any questions about data protection on our website, please do not hesitate to contact us or the responsible party. We wish you a pleasant time and hope to welcome you back to our website soon.

All texts are protected by copyright.