Privacy policy

We are very delighted that you have shown interest in our enterprise. Data protection is of a particularly high priority for the management of the Credo Serve GmbH. The use of the Internet pages of the Credo Serve GmbH is possible without any indication of personal data; however, if a data subject wants to use special enterprise services via our website, processing of personal data could become necessary. However, if a data subject wishes to make use of special services of our company via our website, it may be necessary to process personal data. If the processing of personal data is necessary and there is no legal basis for such processing, we generally obtain the consent of the data subject.

The processing of personal data, such as the name, address, e-mail address, or telephone number of a data subject shall always be in line with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and in accordance with the country-specific data protection regulations applicable to the Credo Serve GmbH. By means of this data protection declaration, our company would like to inform the public about the type, scope and purpose of the personal data we collect, use and process. Furthermore, data subjects are informed of their rights by means of this privacy policy.

As the controller, the Credo Serve GmbH has implemented numerous technical and organizational measures to ensure the most complete protection of personal data processed through this website. Nevertheless, Internet-based data transmissions can generally have security gaps, so absolute protection cannot be guaranteed. For this reason, every data subject is free to transmit personal data to us by alternative means, for example by telephone.

1. definitions of terms

The data protection declaration of the Credo Serve GmbH is based on the terms used by the European legislator for the adoption of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Our privacy policy should be easy to read and understand for the public as well as for our customers and business partners. To ensure this, we would like to explain the terms used in advance.

We use the following terms, among others, in this privacy policy

a) personal data

Personal data means any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person (hereinafter “data subject”). An identifiable natural person is one who can be identified, directly or indirectly, in particular by reference to an identifier such as a name, an identification number, location data, an online identifier or to one or more factors specific to the physical, physiological, genetic, mental, economic, cultural or social identity of that natural person.

b) Data subject

Data subject is any identified or identifiable natural person whose personal data is processed by the controller responsible for the processing.

c) Processing

Processing is 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, organization, structuring, storage, adaptation or alteration, retrieval, consultation, use, disclosure by transmission, dissemination or otherwise making available, alignment or combination, restriction, erasure or destruction.

d) Restriction of processing

Restriction of processing is the marking of stored personal data with the aim of restricting its future processing.

e) Profiling

Profiling means 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 analyze or predict aspects concerning that natural person’s performance at work, economic situation, health, personal preferences, interests, reliability, behavior, location or movements.

f) Pseudonymization

Pseudonymization is the processing of personal data in such a manner that the personal data can no longer be attributed to a specific data subject without the use of additional information, provided that such additional information is kept separately and is subject to technical and organizational measures to ensure that the personal data are not attributed to an identified or identifiable natural person.

g) Controller or Processing Controller

The Controller or Processing Controller is 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 designation may be provided for by Union or Member State law.

h) Processor

The Processor is a natural or legal person, public authority, agency, or other body which processes personal data on behalf of the Controller.

i) Recipient

The Recipient is a natural or legal person, public authority, agency, or other body to whom personal data are disclosed, whether a third party or not. However, authorities that may receive personal data in the framework of a particular inquiry in accordance with Union or Member State law shall not be regarded as Recipients.

j) Third Party

A Third Party is a natural or legal person, public authority, agency, or body other than the data subject, Controller, Processor, and persons who, under the direct authority of the Controller or Processor, are authorized to process personal data.

k) Consent

Consent is 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 relating to him or her.

2. Name and Address of the Controller

The Controller within the meaning of the General Data Protection Regulation, other data protection laws applicable in Member States of the European Union, and other provisions related to data protection is:

Credo Serve GmbH
Dieselstr. 22
71332 Waiblingen
Germany

Phone: +49 7151 / 986 69 6 – 0
Email: info@credo-serve.de
Website: www.credo-serve.de

3. Name and Address of the Data Protection Officer

The Data Protection Officer of the Controller is:

Mr. Fatih Akin
Credo Serve GmbH
Dieselstr. 22
71332 Waiblingen
Germany

Phone: +49 7151 / 986 69 6 – 0
Email: info@test.kb-creative.de
Website: www.credo-serve.de

Any data subject may, at any time, contact our Data Protection Officer directly with all questions and suggestions concerning data protection.

4. Cookies

The internet pages of Credo Serve GmbH use cookies. Cookies are text files that are stored on a computer system via an internet browser.

Many internet pages and servers use cookies. Many cookies contain a so-called cookie ID. A cookie ID is a unique identifier of the cookie. It consists of a string through which internet pages and servers can be assigned to the specific internet browser in which the cookie was stored. This allows visited internet pages and servers to differentiate the individual browser of the data subject from other internet browsers that contain different cookies. A specific internet browser can be recognized and identified using the unique cookie ID.

Through the use of cookies, Credo Serve GmbH can provide users of this website with more user-friendly services that would not be possible without the cookie setting.

By means of a cookie, the information and offers on our website can be optimized with the user in mind. Cookies allow us, as mentioned earlier, to recognize the users of our website. The purpose of this recognition is to make it easier for users to utilize our website. For example, the user of a website that uses cookies does not need to re-enter their login details each time the website is accessed because this is handled by the website and the cookie stored on the user’s computer system. Another example is the cookie of a shopping cart in an online shop. The online shop remembers the items that a customer has placed in the virtual shopping cart via a cookie.

The data subject may, at any time, prevent the setting of cookies through our website by means of a corresponding setting of the internet browser used and may thus permanently deny the setting of cookies. Furthermore, already-set cookies may be deleted at any time via an internet browser or other software programs. This is possible in all popular internet browsers. If the data subject deactivates the setting of cookies in the internet browser used, not all functions of our website may be entirely usable.

5. Collection of General Data and Information

The website of Credo Serve GmbH collects a series of general data and information when a data subject or an automated system accesses the website. This general data and information are stored in the server log files. Collected may be (1) the browser types and versions used, (2) the operating system used by the accessing system, (3) the website from which an accessing system reaches our website (so-called referrers), (4) the sub-websites, (5) the date and time of access to the internet site, (6) an Internet Protocol address (IP address), (7) the internet service provider of the accessing system, and (8) any other similar data and information that may be used in the event of attacks on our information technology systems.

When using this general data and information, Credo Serve GmbH does not draw any conclusions about the data subject. Rather, this information is needed to (1) deliver the content of our website correctly, (2) optimize the content of our website as well as its advertisement, (3) ensure the long-term viability of our information technology systems and website technology, and (4) provide law enforcement authorities with the information necessary for criminal prosecution in case of a cyber-attack. Therefore, Credo Serve GmbH analyzes anonymously collected data and information statistically, with the aim of increasing the data protection and data security of our enterprise, and to ensure an optimal level of protection for the personal data we process.

The anonymous data of the server log files are stored separately from all personal data provided by a data subject.

6. Registration on Our Website

The data subject has the possibility to register on the website of the controller with the indication of personal data. The specific personal data transmitted to the controller is determined by the respective input mask used for the registration. The personal data entered by the data subject is collected and stored exclusively for internal use by the controller and for his or her own purposes. The controller may request transfer to one or more processors (e.g., a parcel service) that also uses personal data for an internal purpose which is attributable to the controller.

By registering on the controller’s website, the IP address—assigned by the internet service provider (ISP) and used by the data subject—the date, and the time of registration are also stored. The storage of this data occurs because this is the only way to prevent the misuse of our services, and, if necessary, to make it possible to investigate committed offenses. In this respect, the storage of this data is necessary to secure the controller. This data is not passed on to third parties unless there is a statutory obligation to transmit the data, or if the transfer serves the aim of criminal prosecution.

The registration of the data subject, with the voluntary indication of personal data, is intended to enable the controller to offer the data subject content or services that may only be offered to registered users due to the nature of the matter in question. Registered persons are free to change the personal data specified during registration at any time or to have them completely deleted from the data stock of the controller.

The controller shall, at any time, provide information upon request to each data subject as to what personal data are stored about the data subject. In addition, the controller shall correct or erase personal data at the request or indication of the data subject, insofar as there are no statutory storage obligations. The entirety of the controller’s employees are available to the data subject in this respect as contact persons.

7. Contact Possibility via the Website

The website of Credo Serve GmbH contains information that enables a quick electronic contact to our enterprise as well as direct communication with us, which also includes a general address of the so-called electronic mail (email address). If a data subject contacts the controller by email or via a contact form, the personal data transmitted by the data subject are automatically stored. Such personal data transmitted on a voluntary basis by a data subject to the controller are stored for the purpose of processing or contacting the data subject. There is no transfer of this personal data to third parties.

8. Routine Erasure and Blocking of Personal Data

The controller shall process and store the personal data of the data subject only for the period necessary to achieve the purpose of storage, or as far as this is granted by the European legislator or other legislators in laws or regulations to which the controller is subject.

If the storage purpose is not applicable, or if a storage period prescribed by the European legislator or another competent legislator expires, the personal data are routinely blocked or erased in accordance with legal requirements.

9. Rights of the Data Subject

a) Right of Confirmation
Each data subject shall have the right granted by the European legislator to obtain from the controller the confirmation as to whether or not personal data concerning them are being processed. If a data subject wishes to avail themselves of this right of confirmation, they may, at any time, contact any employee of the controller.

b) Right of Access
Each data subject shall have the right granted by the European legislator to obtain from the controller free information about their personal data stored at any time and a copy of this information. Furthermore, the European directives and regulations grant the data subject access to the following information:

The purposes of the processing
The categories of personal data concerned
The recipients or categories of recipients to whom the personal data have been or will be disclosed, in particular recipients in third countries or international organizations
Where possible, the envisaged period for which the personal data will be stored, or, if not possible, the criteria used to determine that period
The existence of the right to request from the controller rectification or erasure of personal data, or restriction of processing of personal data concerning the data subject, or to object to such processing
The existence of the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority
Where the personal data are not collected from the data subject, any available information as to their source
The existence of automated decision-making, including profiling, referred to in Article 22(1) and (4) of the GDPR and, at least in those cases, meaningful information about the logic involved, as well as the significance and envisaged consequences of such processing for the data subject

Should the data subject wish to exercise this right of access, they may, at any time, contact an employee of the controller.

9. Rights of the Data Subject (Continued)

c) Right to Rectification
Each data subject shall have the right granted by the European legislator to obtain from the controller, without undue delay, the rectification of inaccurate personal data concerning them. Taking into account the purposes of the processing, the data subject shall have the right to have incomplete personal data completed, including by means of providing a supplementary statement.

If a data subject wishes to exercise this right to rectification, they may, at any time, contact any employee of the controller.

d) Right to Erasure (Right to Be Forgotten)
Each data subject shall have the right granted by the European legislator to obtain from the controller the erasure of personal data concerning them without undue delay, and the controller shall have the obligation to erase personal data without undue delay where one of the following grounds applies, as long as the processing is not necessary:

The personal data are no longer necessary in relation to the purposes for which they were collected or otherwise processed.
The data subject withdraws consent to which the processing is based according to Article 6(1)(a) GDPR or Article 9(2)(a) GDPR, and where there is no other legal ground for the processing.
The data subject objects to the processing pursuant to Article 21(1) GDPR and there are no overriding legitimate grounds for the processing, or the data subject objects to the processing pursuant to Article 21(2) GDPR.
The personal data have been unlawfully processed.
The personal data must be erased for compliance with a legal obligation in Union or Member State law to which the controller is subject.
The personal data have been collected in relation to the offer of information society services referred to in Article 8(1) GDPR.

If one of the aforementioned reasons applies, and a data subject wishes to request the erasure of personal data stored by Credo Serve GmbH, they may, at any time, contact any employee of the controller. An employee of Credo Serve GmbH shall promptly ensure that the erasure request is complied with immediately.

Where the controller has made personal data public and is obliged pursuant to Article 17(1) to erase the personal data, the controller, taking account of available technology and the cost of implementation, shall take reasonable steps, including technical measures, to inform other controllers processing the personal data that the data subject has requested erasure by such controllers of any links to, or copy or replication of, those personal data, as far as processing is not required. An employee of Credo Serve GmbH will arrange the necessary measures in individual cases.

e) Right of Restriction of Processing
Each data subject shall have the right granted by the European legislator to obtain from the controller restriction of processing where one of the following applies:

The accuracy of the personal data is contested by the data subject, for a period enabling the controller to verify the accuracy of the personal data.
The processing is unlawful, and the data subject opposes the erasure of the personal data and requests instead the restriction of their use.
The controller no longer needs the personal data for the purposes of the processing, but they are required by the data subject for the establishment, exercise, or defense of legal claims.
The data subject has objected to processing pursuant to Article 21(1) GDPR pending the verification of whether the legitimate grounds of the controller override those of the data subject.

If one of the aforementioned conditions is met, and a data subject wishes to request the restriction of the processing of personal data stored by Credo Serve GmbH, they may, at any time, contact any employee of the controller. The employee of Credo Serve GmbH will arrange the restriction of the processing.

f) Right to Data Portability
Each data subject shall have the right granted by the European legislator to receive the personal data concerning them, which was provided to a controller, in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format. They shall have the right to transmit those data to another controller without hindrance from the controller to which the personal data have been provided, as long as the processing is based on consent pursuant to Article 6(1)(a) GDPR or Article 9(2)(a) GDPR, or on a contract pursuant to Article 6(1)(b) GDPR, and the processing is carried out by automated means, as long as the processing is not necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest or in the exercise of official authority vested in the controller.

f) Right to Data Portability (Continued)
Furthermore, in exercising their right to data portability pursuant to Article 20(1) GDPR, the data subject shall have the right to have personal data transmitted directly from one controller to another, where technically feasible and when doing so does not adversely affect the rights and freedoms of others.

To assert the right to data portability, the data subject may, at any time, contact any employee of Credo Serve GmbH.

g) Right to Object
Each data subject shall have the right granted by the European legislator to object, on grounds relating to their particular situation, at any time, to processing of personal data concerning them, which is based on point (e) or (f) of Article 6(1) GDPR. This also applies to profiling based on these provisions.

Credo Serve GmbH shall no longer process the personal data in the event of the objection unless we can demonstrate compelling legitimate grounds for the processing which override the interests, rights, and freedoms of the data subject, or for the establishment, exercise, or defense of legal claims.

If Credo Serve GmbH processes personal data for direct marketing purposes, the data subject shall have the right to object at any time to processing of personal data concerning them for such marketing. This applies to profiling to the extent that it is related to such direct marketing. If the data subject objects to Credo Serve GmbH to the processing for direct marketing purposes, Credo Serve GmbH will no longer process the personal data for these purposes.

In addition, the data subject has the right, on grounds relating to their particular situation, to object to processing of personal data concerning them by Credo Serve GmbH for scientific or historical research purposes, or for statistical purposes pursuant to Article 89(1) GDPR, unless the processing is necessary for the performance of a task carried out for reasons of public interest.

To exercise the right to object, the data subject may directly contact any employee of Credo Serve GmbH.

h) Automated Individual Decision-Making, Including Profiling
Each data subject shall have the right granted by the European legislator not to be subject to a decision based solely on automated processing, including profiling, which produces legal effects concerning them, or similarly significantly affects them, as long as the decision (1) is not necessary for entering into, or the performance of, a contract between the data subject and a data controller, or (2) is not authorized by Union or Member State law to which the controller is subject and which also lays down suitable measures to safeguard the data subject’s rights and freedoms and legitimate interests, or (3) is not based on the data subject’s explicit consent.

If the decision (1) is necessary for entering into, or the performance of, a contract between the data subject and a data controller, or (2) it is based on the data subject’s explicit consent, Credo Serve GmbH shall implement suitable measures to safeguard the data subject’s rights and freedoms and legitimate interests, at least the right to obtain human intervention on the part of the controller, to express their point of view, and to contest the decision.

If the data subject wishes to exercise the rights concerning automated individual decision-making, they may, at any time, contact any employee of Credo Serve GmbH.

i) Right to Withdraw Data Protection Consent
Each data subject shall have the right granted by the European legislator to withdraw their consent to the processing of their personal data at any time.

If the data subject wishes to exercise the right to withdraw consent, they may, at any time, contact any employee of Credo Serve GmbH.

10. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of AddThis

The controller has integrated components of the enterprise AddThis on this website. AddThis is a so-called bookmarking provider. The service allows simplified bookmarking and sharing of websites through buttons. By hovering over the AddThis component or clicking on it, a list of bookmarking and sharing services is displayed. AddThis is used on millions of websites, and its buttons are displayed billions of times annually, according to the operating company.

With each call-up of one of the individual pages of this website, which is operated by the controller and into which an AddThis component was integrated, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted by the respective AddThis component to download data from the AddThis servers. During the course of this technical procedure, AddThis is made aware of the visit and which specific individual page of this website was used by the information technology system utilized by the data subject. Furthermore, AddThis is informed of the IP address assigned by the internet service provider (ISP) of the computer system used by the data subject, the browser type, the browser language, the website accessed before visiting our website, the date, and the time of the website visit. AddThis uses this data to create anonymized user profiles.

The data and information transferred to AddThis in this way enable the company AddThis itself, as well as its affiliated companies or its partners, to target visitors of the controller’s website with personalized, interest-based advertising.

AddThis displays personalized and interest-based advertising based on a cookie set by the company. This cookie analyzes the individual surfing behavior of the computer system used by the data subject. The cookie stores the visits made from the computer system.

The data subject can, as stated above, prevent the setting of cookies through our website at any time by means of a corresponding adjustment of the web browser used and thus permanently deny the setting of cookies. Such an adjustment to the internet browser used would also prevent AddThis from setting a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. Additionally, cookies already in use by AddThis may be deleted at any time via a web browser or other software programs.

The data subject also has the possibility to object to the processing of personal data generated by the AddThis cookie and the processing of such data by AddThis and to prevent such processing. For this purpose, the data subject must activate the relevant opt-out options provided by AddThis. The opt-out cookie set with the objection is stored on the information technology system used by the data subject. If the cookies are deleted on the data subject’s system after an objection, the data subject must configure the opt-out settings again.

With the setting of the opt-out cookie, it is possible that the websites of the controller will no longer be fully usable by the data subject.

11. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Adobe Analytics (Omniture) / Adobe Marketing Cloud

The controller has integrated components of the company Adobe on this website. Adobe Analytics (Omniture) and Adobe Marketing Cloud (hereinafter referred to as “Omniture”) are tools that facilitate more effective online marketing and web analysis. Omniture is part of the Adobe Marketing Cloud, which allows real-time analysis of visitor flows on websites. Real-time analyses include project reports and allow ad-hoc analysis of website visitors. Customer interactions are displayed in such a way that they provide the controller with a better overview of online user activities by presenting the data in interactive dashboards and reports. This enables the controller to receive real-time information and identify potential issues more quickly.

Omniture sets a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. A cookie stores information about the behavior of the data subject when visiting the controller’s website. The controller ensures that the data transmitted to Adobe’s data center for tracking is anonymized before geolocation is performed. Anonymization is achieved by replacing the last part of the IP address. Server settings ensure that the IP address of the data subject is anonymized before processing for geolocation and reach measurement purposes. Adobe processes data on behalf of the controller, evaluates user behavior on the website, and provides reports on user activities.

The data subject can prevent the setting of cookies through our website at any time by configuring their web browser settings accordingly, thereby permanently rejecting the setting of cookies. Such settings would also prevent Adobe from setting a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. Additionally, cookies already in use by Adobe can be deleted via the web browser or other software programs at any time.

Furthermore, the data subject has the option to object to the collection of data generated by the Adobe cookie and related to the use of this website, as well as to the processing of such data by Adobe. For this purpose, the data subject must use the opt-out options provided by Adobe to prevent data collection.

12. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Facebook

The controller has integrated components of Facebook on this website. Facebook is a social network.

A social network is an internet-based social meeting place, an online community that typically allows users to communicate and interact with each other in a virtual space. Social networks can serve as platforms for exchanging opinions and experiences or enable the internet community to provide personal or business-related information. Facebook allows users of the social network to create private profiles, upload photos, and network via friend requests, among other features.

Whenever one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and incorporating a Facebook component (Facebook plug-in), is accessed, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted by the respective Facebook component to download a representation of the corresponding Facebook component from Facebook. An overview of all Facebook plug-ins can be found on Facebook’s website. As part of this technical procedure, Facebook receives information about which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is simultaneously logged in on Facebook, Facebook detects with every visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our internet site the data subject visited. This information is collected through the Facebook component and associated with the respective Facebook account of the data subject. If the data subject clicks on one of the Facebook buttons integrated into our website, for example, the „Like“ button, or if the data subject submits a comment, Facebook matches this information with the personal Facebook user account of the data subject and stores the personal data.

Facebook always receives information via the Facebook component that the data subject has visited our website, provided that the data subject is logged into Facebook at the time of the call-up to our website. This occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on the Facebook component or not. If such a transmission of information to Facebook is not desirable for the data subject, they may prevent this by logging out of their Facebook account before accessing our website.

The data policy published by Facebook provides information about the collection, processing, and use of personal data by Facebook. It also explains what setting options Facebook offers to protect the privacy of the data subject. Various applications are also available that make it possible to suppress data transmission to Facebook, such as browser add-ons. These applications can be used by the data subject to suppress data transmission to Facebook.

13. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Google AdSense

The controller has integrated Google AdSense on this website. Google AdSense is an online service that allows the placement of advertising on third-party websites. Google AdSense is based on an algorithm that selects advertisements displayed on third-party sites according to the content of the respective third-party site. Google AdSense allows interest-based targeting of the internet user, which is implemented by generating individual user profiles.

Google AdSense places a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. What cookies are has already been explained above. By placing the cookie, Alphabet Inc. is enabled to analyze the use of our website. With each call-up of one of the individual pages of this website, which is operated by the controller and into which a Google AdSense component is integrated, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted by the respective Google AdSense component to transmit data to Alphabet Inc. for the purpose of online advertising and commission settlement. As part of this technical procedure, Alphabet Inc. gains knowledge of personal data, such as the IP address of the data subject, which serves Alphabet Inc., among other things, to understand the origin of visitors and clicks and subsequently create commission settlements.

The data subject can, as mentioned above, prevent the setting of cookies through our website at any time by means of a corresponding adjustment of the web browser used and thus permanently deny the setting of cookies. Such an adjustment to the internet browser used would also prevent Alphabet Inc. from placing a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. Additionally, cookies already in use by Alphabet Inc. may be deleted at any time via a web browser or other software programs.

Google AdSense also uses so-called tracking pixels. A tracking pixel is a miniature graphic embedded in websites to enable log file recording and log file analysis, which allows statistical analysis to be performed. Based on the embedded tracking pixel, Alphabet Inc. can determine if and when a website was opened by a data subject and which links were clicked. Tracking pixels serve, among other things, to evaluate the flow of visitors on a website.

Through Google AdSense, personal data and information—which also includes the IP address and is necessary for the collection and billing of the displayed advertisements—are transmitted to Alphabet Inc. in the United States. These personal data are stored and processed in the United States. Alphabet Inc. may transfer these personal data collected through the technical procedure to third parties.

14. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Google Analytics (with Anonymization Function)

The controller has integrated the component of Google Analytics (with the anonymization function) on this website. Google Analytics is a web analytics service. Web analytics is the collection, gathering, and analysis of data about the behavior of visitors to websites. Among other things, a web analytics service collects data about the website from which a data subject has come (the so-called referrer), which subpages were visited, or how often and for what duration a subpage was viewed. Web analytics are mainly used to optimize a website and for cost-benefit analysis of internet advertising.

The operator of the Google Analytics component is Google Inc., headquartered in the United States.

The controller uses the „_gat._anonymizeIp“ function for web analytics through Google Analytics. By means of this function, the IP address of the internet connection of the data subject is shortened and anonymized when accessing our websites from a member state of the European Union or another state that is party to the Agreement on the European Economic Area.

The purpose of the Google Analytics component is to analyze the traffic on our website. Google uses the collected data and information, among other things, to evaluate the use of our website and to provide online reports, which show the activities on our website, and to provide other services concerning the use of our internet site for us.

Google Analytics places a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. The definition of cookies is explained above. With the setting of the cookie, Google is enabled to analyze the use of our website. With each call-up to one of the individual pages of this website, which is operated by the controller and into which a Google Analytics component is integrated, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject will automatically submit data through the Google Analytics component for the purpose of online advertising and the settlement of commissions to Google. During the course of this technical procedure, the enterprise Google gains knowledge of personal information, such as the IP address of the data subject, which serves Google, among other things, to understand the origin of visitors and clicks and subsequently create commission settlements.

The cookie is used to store personal information, such as the access time, the location from which the access was made, and the frequency of visits to our website by the data subject. With each visit to our internet site, such personal data, including the IP address of the internet access used by the data subject, is transmitted to Google in the United States of America. These personal data are stored by Google in the United States. Google may pass these personal data collected through the technical procedure to third parties.

The data subject may, as stated above, prevent the setting of cookies through our website at any time by adjusting the web browser used and thus permanently deny the setting of cookies. Such an adjustment to the internet browser used would also prevent Google Analytics from setting a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. Additionally, cookies already in use by Google Analytics may be deleted at any time via a web browser or other software programs.

In addition, the data subject has the option to object to the collection of data generated by Google Analytics and related to the use of this website, as well as to the processing of this data by Google and the chance to preclude any such processing. For this purpose, the data subject must download a browser add-on and install it. This browser add-on tells Google Analytics through JavaScript that any data and information about the visits of internet pages may not be transmitted to Google Analytics. The installation of the browser add-on is considered an objection by Google. If the information technology system of the data subject is later deleted, formatted, or newly installed, then the data subject must reinstall the browser add-on to disable Google Analytics. If the browser add-on was uninstalled or deactivated by the data subject or any other person who is attributable to their sphere of competence, it is possible to execute the reinstallation or reactivation of the browser add-on.

15. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Google Remarketing

The controller has integrated Google Remarketing services on this website. Google Remarketing is a function of Google Ads that enables a company to display advertisements to internet users who have previously visited the company’s website. The integration of Google Remarketing allows a business to create user-targeted advertisements and, as a result, display relevant ads to users.

The operator of the Google Remarketing services is Google Inc., based in the United States.

The purpose of Google Remarketing is to display interest-based advertisements. Google Remarketing enables us to display advertisements within the Google network or on other websites that are tailored to the individual needs and interests of internet users.

Google Remarketing places a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. What cookies are has been explained previously. By placing the cookie, Google enables the recognition of the visitor to our website if they subsequently access websites that are also part of the Google advertising network. With each visit to a website on which Google Remarketing services are integrated, the internet browser of the data subject automatically identifies itself with Google. During this technical process, Google gains knowledge of personal data, such as the IP address or browsing behavior of the user, which Google uses for interest-based advertising.

Cookies are used to store personal information, such as the websites visited by the data subject. Each time the data subject visits our website, their personal data, including the IP address of the internet connection they are using, is transmitted to Google in the United States. These personal data are stored by Google in the United States. Google may pass these personal data to third parties through the technical process.

The data subject may, as explained previously, prevent the setting of cookies through our website at any time by adjusting the web browser settings and thereby permanently deny the setting of cookies. Such an adjustment to the internet browser used would also prevent Google from placing a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. Additionally, cookies already in use by Google may be deleted via a web browser or other software programs.

Furthermore, the data subject has the option to object to interest-based advertising by Google. To do so, the data subject must configure the settings in their internet browser and disable interest-based ads.

16. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Google+

The controller has integrated the Google+ button as a component of this website. Google+ is a social network. A social network is an online community that enables users to communicate and interact in a virtual space. It serves as a platform for exchanging opinions and experiences or provides the internet community with personal or business-related information. Google+ allows users to create private profiles, upload photos, and network through friend requests, among other features.

The operator of Google+ is Google Inc., based in the United States.

Each time one of the individual pages of this website, which is operated by the controller and incorporates a Google+ button, is accessed, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject automatically downloads a representation of the corresponding Google+ button from Google. As part of this technical process, Google becomes aware of which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is logged in to Google+ at the same time, Google recognizes with each visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our website the data subject visited. This information is collected through the Google+ button and is associated by Google with the respective Google+ account of the data subject.

If the data subject clicks on one of the Google+ buttons integrated on our website and thereby submits a Google+1 recommendation, Google assigns this information to the personal Google+ user account of the data subject and stores the personal data. Google stores the Google+1 recommendation of the data subject, making it publicly available in accordance with the terms accepted by the data subject. A Google+1 recommendation made by the data subject on this website will subsequently be stored together with other personal data, such as the name of the Google+1 account and the profile picture stored in that account. This data is processed and published in Google services, such as in search engine results, the Google account of the data subject, or at other places, such as on websites or in relation to advertisements.

Furthermore, Google is able to link the visit to this website with other personal data stored on Google. Google also records this personal information for the purpose of improving or optimizing various Google services.

Through the Google+ button, Google always receives information about visits to our website by the data subject if the data subject is logged into Google+ at the time of visiting our website, regardless of whether the data subject clicks the Google+ button or not. If such a transmission of information to Google is not desired by the data subject, it can be prevented by logging out of the Google+ account before visiting our website.

For further details on how Google processes personal data, please refer to Google’s data protection policies.

17. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Google Ads

The controller has integrated Google Ads on this website. Google Ads is an online advertising service that allows advertisers to place ads both in the search engine results of Google and within the Google advertising network. Google Ads enables an advertiser to predefine specific keywords by which an ad in the search engine results of Google will be displayed when the user retrieves a keyword-relevant search result. Within the Google advertising network, ads are distributed to relevant websites using an automated algorithm that considers the predefined keywords.

The operator of Google Ads is Google Inc., based in the United States.

The purpose of Google Ads is to promote our website by displaying interest-relevant advertisements on third-party websites and in the search engine results of Google and to display third-party advertisements on our website.

If a data subject arrives at our website via a Google ad, a so-called conversion cookie is stored on the information technology system of the data subject by Google. The explanation of cookies has already been provided. A conversion cookie loses its validity after 30 days and is not used to identify the data subject. If the cookie has not expired, it tracks whether certain subpages, such as the shopping cart of an online shop system, were accessed on our website. The conversion cookie allows both Google and the controller to understand whether a person who came to our website via an Ads advertisement generated revenue, such as completing or canceling a purchase.

The data and information collected through the use of the conversion cookie are used by Google to create visit statistics for our website. These visit statistics are used by us to determine the total number of users who were referred to us via Ads advertisements to assess the success or failure of each Ads advertisement and to optimize our Ads advertisements for the future. Neither our company nor other Google Ads advertisers receive information from Google that could identify the data subject.

The conversion cookie stores personal information, such as the internet pages visited by the data subject. Each time the data subject visits our website, personal data, including the IP address of the internet access used by the data subject, is transmitted to Google in the United States. These personal data are stored by Google in the United States. Google may pass these personal data collected through the technical process to third parties.

The data subject may, as previously mentioned, prevent the setting of cookies by adjusting the settings in the web browser used and thus permanently deny the setting of cookies. Such an adjustment to the internet browser used would also prevent Google from setting a conversion cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. Additionally, cookies already in use by Google may be deleted at any time via a web browser or other software programs.

Furthermore, the data subject has the option to object to interest-based advertising by Google. For this purpose, the data subject must configure their web browser settings and disable interest-based advertising.

18. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Instagram

The controller has integrated components of the Instagram service on this website. Instagram is a service that can be qualified as an audiovisual platform, enabling users to share photos and videos, as well as distribute such data on other social networks.

The operator of the Instagram services is Instagram LLC, based in the United States.

With each call-up to one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and on which an Instagram component (Insta button) is integrated, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted to download a representation of the corresponding Instagram component from Instagram. During this technical process, Instagram gains knowledge of which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is logged into Instagram at the same time, Instagram detects with each visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our website the data subject visited. This information is collected through the Instagram component and associated with the respective Instagram account of the data subject. If the data subject clicks on one of the Instagram buttons integrated on our website, Instagram matches this information with the personal Instagram user account of the data subject and stores the personal data.

Instagram always receives information via the Instagram component that the data subject has visited our website, provided that the data subject is logged into Instagram at the time of the call-up to our website. This occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on the Instagram component or not. If such a transmission of information to Instagram is not desirable for the data subject, they can prevent this by logging out of their Instagram account before accessing our website.

For further details about Instagram’s data protection policies, please refer to Instagram’s privacy policy.

19. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Jetpack for WordPress

The controller has integrated Jetpack on this website. Jetpack is a WordPress plug-in that offers additional features to website operators based on WordPress. Jetpack enables the website operator, among other things, to gain an overview of the visitors to the page. By displaying related posts and publications or the ability to share content on the page, it also increases visitor numbers. Additionally, Jetpack includes security features that protect a website using Jetpack from brute force attacks. Jetpack also optimizes and accelerates the loading of images integrated into the website.

The operator of the Jetpack plug-in for WordPress is Automattic Inc., based in the United States. Automattic Inc. uses tracking technology provided by Quantcast Inc., also based in the United States.

Jetpack sets a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. The explanation of cookies has already been provided. Each time one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and into which a Jetpack component is integrated, is accessed, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted to transmit data to Automattic for analysis purposes. During this technical process, Automattic gains knowledge of data used to create an overview of website visits. The data obtained in this way is used to analyze the behavior of the data subject who accessed the controller’s website and is evaluated for the purpose of optimizing the website. The data collected via the Jetpack component is not used to identify the data subject without the explicit prior consent of the data subject. The data also becomes known to Quantcast. Quantcast uses the data for the same purposes as Automattic.

The data subject can, as previously mentioned, prevent the setting of cookies by configuring the settings in their web browser and thereby permanently deny the setting of cookies. Such an adjustment to the internet browser used would also prevent Automattic/Quantcast from placing a cookie on the information technology system of the data subject. Additionally, cookies already in use by Automattic/Quantcast may be deleted at any time via a web browser or other software programs.

Furthermore, the data subject has the option to object to the collection of data generated by the Jetpack cookie and related to the use of this website, as well as to the processing of such data by Automattic/Quantcast, and to prevent such processing. For this purpose, the data subject must activate the relevant opt-out options provided by Automattic/Quantcast.

20. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of LinkedIn

The controller has integrated components of the LinkedIn Corporation on this website. LinkedIn is an internet-based social network that allows users to connect with existing business contacts and create new business connections. Over 400 million registered users in more than 200 countries use LinkedIn, making it one of the largest platforms for business contacts and one of the most visited websites in the world.

The operator of LinkedIn is LinkedIn Corporation, based in the United States. For privacy matters outside the United States, LinkedIn Ireland, located in Dublin, Ireland, is responsible.

With each call-up to one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and on which a LinkedIn component (LinkedIn plug-in) is integrated, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted to download a representation of the corresponding LinkedIn component. More information about LinkedIn plug-ins can be found on LinkedIn’s website. During this technical process, LinkedIn gains knowledge of which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is logged in to LinkedIn at the same time, LinkedIn detects with each visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our website the data subject visited. This information is collected through the LinkedIn component and associated with the respective LinkedIn account of the data subject. If the data subject clicks on a LinkedIn button integrated on our website, LinkedIn matches this information with the personal LinkedIn user account of the data subject and stores the personal data.

LinkedIn always receives information via the LinkedIn component that the data subject has visited our website, provided that the data subject is logged into LinkedIn at the time of the call-up to our website. This occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on the LinkedIn component or not. If such a transmission of information to LinkedIn is not desirable for the data subject, they can prevent this by logging out of their LinkedIn account before accessing our website.

LinkedIn provides options to manage email notifications, SMS messages, targeted ads, and other advertising settings. LinkedIn also works with partners like Quantcast, Google Analytics, BlueKai, DoubleClick, and others, which may set cookies. These cookies can be managed in the settings of the user’s browser.

For further details about LinkedIn’s data protection policies, please refer to LinkedIn’s privacy policy.

21. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Myspace

The controller has integrated components of Myspace LLC on this website. Myspace is a social network. A social network is an online platform that allows users to communicate, interact, and share content in a virtual space. Myspace enables users to create free profiles containing photos, videos, blogs, and groups.

The operator of Myspace is Myspace LLC, based in the United States.

With each call-up to one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and on which a Myspace component (Myspace plug-in) is integrated, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted to download a representation of the corresponding Myspace component from Myspace. During this technical process, Myspace gains knowledge of which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is logged in to Myspace at the same time, Myspace detects with each visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our website the data subject visited. This information is collected through the Myspace component and associated with the respective Myspace account of the data subject. If the data subject clicks on one of the Myspace buttons integrated on our website, Myspace matches this information with the personal Myspace user account of the data subject and stores the personal data.

Myspace always receives information via the Myspace component that the data subject has visited our website, provided that the data subject is logged into Myspace at the time of the call-up to our website. This occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on the Myspace component or not. If such a transmission of information to Myspace is not desirable for the data subject, they can prevent this by logging out of their Myspace account before accessing our website.

For further details about Myspace’s data protection policies, please refer to Myspace’s privacy policy.

22. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Pinterest

The controller has integrated components of Pinterest Inc. on this website. Pinterest is a social network that allows users to organize and share images, videos, and other content in the form of virtual pinboards. Users can share (repin) or comment on content posted by other users on the platform.

The operator of Pinterest is Pinterest Inc., based in the United States.

Each time one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and on which a Pinterest component (Pinterest plug-in) is integrated, is accessed, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted to download a representation of the corresponding Pinterest component from Pinterest. During this technical process, Pinterest gains knowledge of which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is logged in to Pinterest at the same time, Pinterest detects with each visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our website the data subject visited. This information is collected through the Pinterest component and associated with the respective Pinterest account of the data subject. If the data subject clicks on one of the Pinterest buttons integrated on our website, Pinterest matches this information with the personal Pinterest user account of the data subject and stores the personal data.

Pinterest always receives information via the Pinterest component that the data subject has visited our website, provided that the data subject is logged into Pinterest at the time of the call-up to our website. This occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on the Pinterest component or not. If such a transmission of information to Pinterest is not desirable for the data subject, they can prevent this by logging out of their Pinterest account before accessing our website.

For further details about Pinterest’s data protection policies, please refer to Pinterest’s privacy policy.

23. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Shariff

The controller has integrated the Shariff component on this website. Shariff provides social media buttons that are privacy-compliant. Shariff was developed for the German computer magazine “c’t” and is published via GitHub, Inc.

Typically, the buttons provided by social networks immediately transfer personal data to the respective social network when a user visits a website into which a social media button has been integrated. Using Shariff, personal data is only transmitted to social networks when the visitor actively clicks on one of the social media buttons. Shariff ensures that no personal data is automatically transferred to the operators of these platforms when visiting this website.

The purpose of using the Shariff component is to protect the personal data of visitors to our website while still enabling the integration of social media sharing features.

For further details about the Shariff component and its privacy features, please consult the information provided by the developers.

24. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of SlideShare

The controller has integrated SlideShare components on this website. SlideShare is a file hosting service that allows users to upload and share presentations, documents, videos, and other media files. Users can make these files publicly accessible or keep them private. The service also provides embed codes for sharing content on other websites.

The operator of SlideShare is LinkedIn Corporation, based in the United States. For privacy matters outside the United States, LinkedIn Ireland, located in Dublin, Ireland, is responsible.

Whenever one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and on which a SlideShare component (embed code) is integrated, is accessed, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted to download data from SlideShare. During this technical process, SlideShare gains knowledge of which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is logged in to SlideShare at the same time, SlideShare detects with each visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our website the data subject visited. This information is collected through the SlideShare component and associated with the respective SlideShare account of the data subject.

SlideShare always receives information via the SlideShare component that the data subject has visited our website, provided that the data subject is logged into SlideShare at the time of the call-up to our website. This occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on the SlideShare component or not. If such a transmission of information to SlideShare is not desirable for the data subject, they can prevent this by logging out of their SlideShare account before accessing our website.

For further details about SlideShare’s data protection policies, please refer to SlideShare’s privacy policy.

25. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Tumblr

The controller has integrated components of Tumblr on this website. Tumblr is a platform that allows users to create and manage blogs. A blog is an online portal where one or more individuals can post articles or entries, often visible to the public. Tumblr users can publish content such as text, images, links, and videos and share them across the digital space. Additionally, users can integrate content from external websites into their own blogs.

The operator of Tumblr is Tumblr, Inc., based in the United States.

Whenever one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and on which a Tumblr component (Tumblr button) is integrated, is accessed, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted to download a representation of the corresponding Tumblr component from Tumblr. During this technical process, Tumblr gains knowledge of which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is logged in to Tumblr at the same time, Tumblr detects with each visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our website the data subject visited. This information is collected through the Tumblr component and associated with the respective Tumblr account of the data subject. If the data subject clicks on one of the Tumblr buttons integrated on our website, Tumblr matches this information with the personal Tumblr user account of the data subject and stores the personal data.

Tumblr always receives information via the Tumblr component that the data subject has visited our website, provided that the data subject is logged into Tumblr at the time of the call-up to our website. This occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on the Tumblr component or not. If such a transmission of information to Tumblr is not desirable for the data subject, they can prevent this by logging out of their Tumblr account before accessing our website.

For further details about Tumblr’s data protection policies, please refer to Tumblr’s privacy policy.

26. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Twitter

The controller has integrated components of Twitter on this website. Twitter is a multilingual, publicly accessible microblogging service where users can publish and share „tweets,“ short messages limited to 280 characters. These tweets are accessible to anyone, including non-Twitter users. Followers, who are other Twitter users, receive updates on the tweets of accounts they follow. Twitter also allows the use of hashtags, links, and retweets to reach a broader audience.

The operator of Twitter is Twitter, Inc., based in the United States.

Whenever one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and on which a Twitter component (Twitter button) is integrated, is accessed, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted to download a representation of the corresponding Twitter component from Twitter. During this technical process, Twitter gains knowledge of which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is logged in to Twitter at the same time, Twitter detects with each visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our website the data subject visited. This information is collected through the Twitter component and associated with the respective Twitter account of the data subject. If the data subject clicks on one of the Twitter buttons integrated on our website, Twitter matches this information with the personal Twitter user account of the data subject and stores the personal data.

Twitter always receives information via the Twitter component that the data subject has visited our website, provided that the data subject is logged into Twitter at the time of the call-up to our website. This occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on the Twitter component or not. If such a transmission of information to Twitter is not desirable for the data subject, they can prevent this by logging out of their Twitter account before accessing our website.

For further details about Twitter’s data protection policies, please refer to Twitter’s privacy policy.

27. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of Xing

The controller has integrated components of Xing on this website. Xing is an internet-based social network that enables users to connect with existing business contacts and create new business connections. Users can create a personal profile, while companies can create profiles or publish job advertisements on the platform.

The operator of Xing is XING SE, based in Germany.

Whenever one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and on which a Xing component (Xing plug-in) is integrated, is accessed, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted to download a representation of the corresponding Xing component. More information about Xing plug-ins can be found on Xing’s developer website. During this technical process, Xing gains knowledge of which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is logged in to Xing at the same time, Xing detects with each visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our website the data subject visited. This information is collected through the Xing component and associated with the respective Xing account of the data subject. If the data subject clicks on one of the Xing buttons integrated on our website, Xing matches this information with the personal Xing user account of the data subject and stores the personal data.

Xing always receives information via the Xing component that the data subject has visited our website, provided that the data subject is logged into Xing at the time of the call-up to our website. This occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on the Xing component or not. If such a transmission of information to Xing is not desirable for the data subject, they can prevent this by logging out of their Xing account before accessing our website.

For further details about Xing’s data protection policies, please refer to Xing’s privacy policy.

28. Data Protection Provisions About the Application and Use of YouTube

The controller has integrated components of YouTube on this website. YouTube is an online video-sharing platform that allows users to upload, share, and view videos for free. YouTube offers various types of video content, including movies, TV shows, music videos, trailers, and user-generated content.

The operator of YouTube is YouTube, LLC, based in the United States, a subsidiary of Google Inc.

Whenever one of the individual pages of this website, operated by the controller and on which a YouTube component (YouTube video) is integrated, is accessed, the internet browser on the information technology system of the data subject is automatically prompted to download a representation of the corresponding YouTube component. During this technical process, YouTube and Google gain knowledge of which specific sub-page of our website was visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is logged in to YouTube at the same time, YouTube detects with each visit to our website by the data subject—and for the entire duration of their stay on our website—which specific sub-page of our website the data subject visited. This information is collected through the YouTube component and associated with the respective YouTube account of the data subject. If the data subject interacts with a YouTube video embedded on our website, for instance, by playing the video, this information is also transmitted to YouTube and stored in their account.

YouTube and Google always receive information via the YouTube component that the data subject has visited our website, provided that the data subject is logged into YouTube at the time of the call-up to our website. This occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on a YouTube video or not. If such a transmission of information to YouTube is not desirable for the data subject, they can prevent this by logging out of their YouTube account before accessing our website.

For further details about YouTube’s data protection policies, please refer to Google’s privacy policy.

29. Legal Basis for Processing

Article 6(1)(a) of the GDPR serves as the legal basis for processing operations where we obtain consent for a specific processing purpose. If the processing of personal data is necessary for the performance of a contract to which the data subject is a party, as is the case, for example, when processing operations are necessary for the supply of goods or to provide any other service, the processing is based on Article 6(1)(b) of the GDPR. The same applies to such processing operations that are necessary for carrying out pre-contractual measures, for example, in the case of inquiries concerning our products or services.

If our company is subject to a legal obligation by which processing of personal data is required, such as for the fulfillment of tax obligations, the processing is based on Article 6(1)(c) of the GDPR. In rare cases, the processing of personal data may be necessary to protect the vital interests of the data subject or another natural person. For example, this would be the case if a visitor were injured in our company and their name, age, health insurance data, or other vital information would have to be passed on to a doctor, hospital, or other third parties. Then the processing would be based on Article 6(1)(d) of the GDPR.

Finally, processing operations could be based on Article 6(1)(f) of the GDPR. This legal basis is used for processing operations that are not covered by any of the aforementioned legal grounds if processing is necessary for the purposes of the legitimate interests pursued by our company or a third party, except where such interests are overridden by the interests or fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subject. Such processing operations are particularly permissible because they have been specifically mentioned by the European legislator. He considered that a legitimate interest could be assumed if the data subject is a client of the controller (Recital 47, Sentence 2, GDPR).

30. Legitimate Interests in Processing Pursued by the Controller or a Third Party

If the processing of personal data is based on Article 6(1)(f) of the GDPR, our legitimate interest is to carry out our business activities in favor of the well-being of all our employees and shareholders.

31. Period for Which Personal Data Will Be Stored

The criterion used to determine the period of storage of personal data is the respective statutory retention period. After the expiration of that period, the corresponding data is routinely deleted, provided that it is no longer necessary for the fulfillment of the contract or the initiation of a contract.

32. Statutory or Contractual Requirements for the Provision of Personal Data; Necessity for the Conclusion of a Contract; Obligation of the Data Subject to Provide Personal Data; Possible Consequences of Failure to Provide Such Data

We clarify that the provision of personal data is partly required by law (e.g., tax regulations) or can also result from contractual provisions (e.g., information on the contractual partner). Sometimes, it may be necessary to conclude a contract that the data subject provides us with personal data, which must subsequently be processed by us. The data subject is, for example, obliged to provide us with personal data when our company signs a contract with them. The non-provision of personal data would have the consequence that the contract with the data subject could not be concluded.

Before personal data is provided by the data subject, the data subject must contact any employee. The employee clarifies to the data subject whether the provision of the personal data is required by law or contract or is necessary for the conclusion of the contract, whether there is an obligation to provide the personal data, and the consequences of non-provision of the personal data.

33. Existence of Automated Decision-Making

As a responsible company, we do not use automatic decision-making or profiling.

This privacy policy was generated using the Privacy Policy Generator of DGD Deutsche Gesellschaft für Datenschutz GmbH, which acts as an external data protection officer in Essen, in cooperation with the data protection lawyers of the law firm WILDE BEUGER SOLMECKE | Rechtsanwälte.