Data protection

Privacy Policy

Preamble

The following privacy policy is intended to inform you about the types of personal data (hereinafter also referred to as "data") we process, for what purposes and to what extent. The privacy policy applies to all processing of personal data carried out by us, both in the context of providing our services and, in particular, on our websites, in mobile applications and within external online presences, such as our social media profiles (hereinafter collectively referred to as "online offering").

The terms used are not gender-specific.

Status: 15 August 2025

Table of contents

Preamble
Data controller
Contact Data protection officer
Overview of processing
Relevant legal basis
Security
Transfer of personal data
International data transfers
General information on data storage and deletion
Rights of data subjects
Business services
Business processes and procedures
Providers and services used in the course of business
Provision of online services and web hosting
Use of cookies
Registration, login and user account
Contact and enquiry management
Cloud services
Newsletters and electronic notifications
Advertising communication via email, post, fax or telephone
Web analysis, monitoring and optimisation
Presence on social networks (social media)
Plug-ins and embedded functions and content
Application procedures
Changes and updates
Definition of terms

Responsible

Otto Heuss GmbH
Amtsgerichtsstrasse 12
35423 Lich

Authorised representatives: Managing Directors Julian P. Heuss and Tristan F. Heuss

Email address: info@ottoheuss.com

Telephone: +49 (0) 6404 9169-0

Legal notice

Contact Data protection officer

Michaela Genderka
Blumenstraße 13
47918 Tönisvorst

Phone +49 (0) 2151 9422060
Email: datenschutz@ottoheuss.de

Overview of processing

The following overview summarises the types of data processed and the purposes for which they are processed, and refers to the data subjects.

Types of data processed

Inventory data.
Payment data.
Contact data.
Content data.
Contract data.
Usage data.
Meta, communication and process data.
Applicant data.
Image and/or video recordings.
Log data.

Categories of data subjects

Service recipients and clients.
Employees.
Prospective customers.
Communication partners.
Users.
Applicants.
Business and contractual partners.
Persons depicted.
Third parties.

Purposes of processing

Provision of contractual services and fulfilment of contractual obligations.
Communication.
Security measures.
Direct marketing.
Reach measurement.
Tracking.
Office and organisational procedures.
Target group formation.
Organisational and administrative procedures.
Application procedures.
Feedback.
Marketing.
Profiles with user-related information.
Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
IT infrastructure.
Financial and payment management.
Public relations.
Sales promotion.
Business processes and business management procedures.

Relevant legal basis

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

Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR) - The data subject has given consent to the processing of personal data concerning him or her for one or more specific purposes.
Fulfilment of a contract and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR) - Processing is necessary for the performance of a contract to which the data subject is party or in order to take steps at the request of the data subject prior to entering into a contract.
Legal obligation (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. c) GDPR) - Processing is necessary for compliance with a legal obligation to which the controller is subject.
Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR) - processing is necessary for the purposes of the legitimate interests pursued by the controller or by a third party, except where such interests are overridden by the interests or fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subject which require protection of personal data.
Application procedure as a pre-contractual or contractual relationship (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR) - Insofar as special categories of personal data within the meaning of Art. 9 para. 1 GDPR (e.g. health data, such as severe disability or ethnic origin) are requested from applicants so that the controller or the data subject can exercise their rights under labour law and social security and social protection law and fulfil their obligations in this regard, such processing shall be carried out in accordance with Art. 9(2)(b) GDPR, in the case of the protection of vital interests of applicants or other persons pursuant to Art. 9 para. 2 lit. c. GDPR or for the purposes of health care or occupational medicine, for the assessment of the employee's working capacity, for medical diagnosis, care or treatment in the health or social sector or for the management of systems and services in the health or social sector in accordance with Art. 9 (2) lit. h. GDPR. In the case of disclosure of special categories of data based on voluntary consent, processing is carried out on the basis of Art. 9 (2) lit. a GDPR.

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

Note on the applicability of the GDPR and the Swiss DSG: This privacy policy serves to provide information in accordance with both the Swiss DSG and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). For this reason, please note that the terms used in the GDPR are used due to their broader geographical application and comprehensibility. In particular, instead of the terms "processing" of "personal data", "overriding interest" and "sensitive personal data" used in the Swiss Data Protection Act, the terms "processing" of "personal data", "legitimate interest" and "special categories of data" used in the GDPR are used. However, the legal meaning of the terms will continue to be determined in accordance with the Swiss DSG within the scope of its applicability.

Security

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

These measures include, in particular, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data by controlling physical and electronic access to the data as well as access to, input, transfer, security of availability and separation of the data. Furthermore, we have established procedures to ensure that data subjects can exercise their rights, that data is deleted and that responses are provided in the event of a threat to the data. Furthermore, we take the protection of personal data into account during the development and selection of hardware, software and procedures in accordance with the principle of data protection, through technical design and data protection-friendly default settings.

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

Transfer of personal data

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

International data transfers

Data processing in third countries: If we transfer data to a third country (i.e. outside the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA)) or if this occurs in the context of the use of third-party services or the disclosure or transfer of data to other persons, bodies or companies (which can be identified by the postal address of the respective provider or if the data protection declaration expressly refers to the transfer of data to third countries), this is always done in accordance with the legal requirements.

For data transfers to the USA, we primarily rely on the Data Privacy Framework (DPF), which was recognised as a secure legal framework by an adequacy decision of the EU Commission on 10 July 2023. In addition, we have concluded standard contractual clauses with the respective providers that comply with the requirements of the EU Commission and establish contractual obligations for the protection of your data.

This double safeguard ensures comprehensive protection of your data: The DPF forms the primary level of protection, while the standard contractual clauses serve as additional security. Should changes arise within the framework of the DPF, the standard contractual clauses will serve as a reliable fallback option. In this way, we ensure that your data remains adequately protected even in the event of political or legal changes.

We will inform you whether individual service providers are certified under the DPF and whether standard contractual clauses are in place. Further information on the DPF and a list of certified companies can be found on the website of the US Department of Commerce at https://www.dataprivacyframework.gov/ (in English).

Appropriate security measures, in particular standard contractual clauses, express consent or transfers required by law, apply to data transfers to other third countries. Information on transfers to third countries and applicable adequacy decisions can be found in the information provided by the EU Commission: https://commission.europa.eu/law/law-topic/data-protection/international-dimension-data-protection_en?prefLang=de.

General information on data storage and deletion

We delete personal data that we process in accordance with the statutory provisions as soon as the underlying consent is revoked or there is no longer any legal basis for processing. This applies to cases in which the original purpose of processing no longer applies or the data is no longer required. Exceptions to this rule exist if legal obligations or special interests require longer storage or archiving of the data.

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

Our data protection information contains additional information on the storage and deletion of data that applies specifically to certain processing operations.

If there are several specifications regarding the retention period or deletion deadlines for a piece of data, the longest period shall always apply. Data that is no longer required for the originally intended purpose but is retained due to legal requirements or other reasons will only be processed for the reasons that justify its retention.

Storage and deletion of data: The following general periods apply to storage and archiving in accordance with German law:

10 years – retention period for books and records, annual financial statements, inventories, management reports, opening balance sheets and the work instructions and other organisational documents necessary for their understanding (Section 147 (1) No. 1 in conjunction with (3) AO, Section 14b (1) UStG, Section 257 (1) No. 1 in conjunction with (4) HGB).
8 years - Accounting documents, such as invoices and expense receipts (Section 147 (1) No. 4 and 4a in conjunction with (3) sentence 1 AO and Section 257 (1) No. 4 in conjunction with (4) HGB).
6 years - Other business documents: commercial or business letters received, copies of commercial or business letters sent, other documents insofar as they are relevant for taxation, e.g. hourly wage slips, operating statement forms, calculation documents, price labels, but also payroll accounting documents, unless they are already accounting documents, and cash register receipts (Section 147 (1) No. 2, 3, 5 in conjunction with (3) AO, Section 257 (1) No. 2 and 3 in conjunction with (4) HGB).
3 years - Data that is necessary to consider potential warranty and damage claims or similar contractual claims and rights, as well as to process related enquiries, based on previous business experience and customary industry practices, will be stored for the duration of the regular statutory limitation period of three years (Sections 195, 199 BGB).

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

Rights of the data subjects

Rights of data subjects under the GDPR: As a data subject, you have various rights under the GDPR, which arise in particular from Articles 15 to 21 GDPR:

Right to object: You have the right to object at any time, on grounds relating to your particular situation, to the processing of personal data concerning you which is based on Article 6(1)(e) or (f) GDPR; this also applies to profiling based on these provisions. If the personal data concerning you is processed for direct marketing purposes, you have the right to object at any time to the processing of personal data concerning you for such marketing; this also applies to profiling to the extent that it is related to such direct marketing.
Right to withdraw consent: You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time.
Right to information: You have the right to request confirmation as to whether data concerning you is being processed and to obtain information about this data, as well as further information and a copy of the data in accordance with the legal requirements.
Right to rectification: You have the right to request the completion of data concerning you or the rectification of inaccurate data concerning you in accordance with the statutory provisions.
Right to erasure and restriction of processing: You have the right to request that data concerning you be erased immediately or, alternatively, to request that the processing of the data be restricted in accordance with legal requirements.
Right to data portability: You have the right to receive data concerning you that you have provided to us in a structured, commonly used and machine-readable format or to request that it be transferred to another controller in accordance with legal requirements.
Complaint to a supervisory authority: In accordance with legal requirements and without prejudice to any other administrative or judicial remedy, you also have the right to lodge a complaint with a data protection supervisory authority, in particular a supervisory authority in the Member State of your habitual residence, the supervisory authority of your workplace or the place of the alleged infringement, if you believe that the processing of personal data relating to you violates the GDPR.

Business services

We process data of our contractual and business partners, e.g. customers and interested parties (collectively referred to as "contractual partners"), within the framework of contractual and comparable legal relationships and related measures and with regard to communication with contractual partners (or pre-contractually), for example to respond to enquiries.

We use this data to fulfil our contractual obligations. These include, in particular, the obligations to provide the agreed services, any update obligations and remedies in the event of warranty and other performance disruptions. In addition, we use the data to protect our rights and for the purposes of administrative tasks associated with these obligations and for company organisation. We also process the data on the basis of our legitimate interests in proper and economical business management and in security measures to protect our contractual partners and our business operations from misuse, endangerment of their data, secrets, information and rights (e.g. for the involvement of telecommunications, transport and other auxiliary services as well as subcontractors, banks, tax and legal advisors, payment service providers or tax authorities). Within the framework of applicable law, we only pass on the data of contractual partners to third parties to the extent that this is necessary for the aforementioned purposes or to fulfil legal obligations. Contractual partners will be informed about further forms of processing, such as for marketing purposes, within the framework of this privacy policy.

We will inform contractual partners of the data required for the aforementioned purposes before or during data collection, e.g. in online forms, by means of special markings (e.g. colours) or symbols (e.g. asterisks or similar), or in person.

We delete the data after expiry of statutory warranty and comparable obligations, i.e. generally after four years, unless the data is stored in a customer account, e.g. for as long as it must be retained for archiving reasons (e.g. for tax purposes, generally ten years). We delete data disclosed to us by the contractual partner within the scope of an order in accordance with the specifications and, as a rule, after the end of the order.

Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g. full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); payment data (e.g. bank details, invoices, payment history); contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); contract data (e.g. subject matter of the contract, term, customer category); Usage data (e.g. page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, persons involved).
Data subjects: Service recipients and clients; interested parties. Business and contractual partners.
Purposes of processing: Provision of contractual services and fulfilment of contractual obligations; security measures; communication; office and organisational procedures; organisational and administrative procedures. Business processes and business management procedures.
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion".
Legal basis: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR); Legal obligation (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. c) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures and services:

Online shop, order forms, e-commerce and service fulfilment: We process our customers' data to enable them to select, purchase or order the selected products, goods and related services, as well as to enable payment and provision, delivery or execution. If necessary for the execution of an order, we use service providers, in particular postal, shipping and delivery companies, to carry out the delivery or execution to our customers. We use the services of banks and payment service providers to process payment transactions. The necessary information is marked as such during the ordering or comparable purchase process and includes the information required for delivery or provision and billing, as well as contact information so that we can consult you if necessary; legal basis: contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR).
Craft services: We process the data of our customers and clients (hereinafter referred to uniformly as "customers") in order to enable them to select, purchase or commission the selected services or works and related activities, as well as to enable payment and delivery or execution or provision thereof.
The necessary information is identified as such in the context of the order, purchase order or comparable contract and includes the information required for delivery and billing, as well as contact information so that we can get back to you if we need to. Legal basis: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR).

Business processes and procedures

Personal data of service recipients and clients – including customers, clients or, in special cases, patients or business partners and other third parties – are processed within the framework of contractual and comparable legal relationships and pre-contractual measures such as the initiation of business relationships. This data processing supports and facilitates business processes in areas such as customer management, sales, payment transactions, accounting and project management.

The data collected is used to fulfil contractual obligations and to design operational processes efficiently. This includes the processing of business transactions, the management of customer relationships, the optimisation of sales strategies and the ensuring of internal invoicing and financial processes. In addition, the data supports the protection of the rights of the controller and facilitates administrative tasks and the organisation of the company.

Personal data may be passed on to third parties if this is necessary to fulfil the aforementioned purposes or legal obligations. The data will be deleted after the expiry of the statutory retention periods or when the purpose of the processing no longer applies. This also includes data that must be stored for longer periods due to tax and legal documentation requirements.

Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g. full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); payment data (e.g. bank details, invoices, payment history); contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); Content data (e.g. text or image messages and posts, as well as information relating to them, such as details of authorship or time of creation); Contract data (e.g. subject matter of the contract, term, customer category); Log data (e.g. log files relating to logins or the retrieval of data or access times); Usage data (e.g. page views and length of stay, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, types of devices and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, persons involved).
Data subjects: Service recipients and clients; interested parties; communication partners; business and contractual partners; third parties; users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services). Employees (e.g. employees, applicants, temporary staff and other employees).
Purposes of processing: Provision of contractual services and fulfilment of contractual obligations; office and organisational procedures; business processes and business management procedures; communication; marketing; sales promotion; public relations; financial and payment management. Information technology infrastructure (operation and provision of information systems and technical equipment (computers, servers, etc.)).
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion".
Legal basis: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR); legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR). Legal obligation (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. c) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures and services:

Contact management and maintenance: Procedures necessary for the organisation, maintenance and securing of contact information (e.g. setting up and maintaining a central contact database, regularly updating contact information, monitoring data integrity, implementing data protection measures, ensuring access controls, performing backups and restoring contact data, training employees in the effective use of contact management software, regularly reviewing communication history and adapting contact strategies); Legal basis: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).
General payment transactions: Procedures necessary for the execution of payment transactions, the monitoring of bank accounts and the control of payment flows (e.g. creation and verification of transfers, processing of direct debits, checking of account statements, monitoring of incoming and outgoing payments, return debit management, account reconciliation, cash management); Legal basis: Contract performance and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).
Accounting, accounts payable, accounts receivable: Procedures required for recording, processing and controlling business transactions in the area of accounts payable and accounts receivable (e.g. creation and verification of incoming and outgoing invoices, monitoring and management of open items, execution of payment transactions, processing of reminders, account reconciliation in the context of receivables and payables, accounts payable and accounts receivable accounting); Legal basis: Contract performance and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR), legal obligation (Art. 6(1)(c) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).
Financial accounting and taxes: Procedures that are necessary for the recording, management and control of financially relevant business transactions and for the calculation, reporting and payment of taxes (e.g. account assignment and posting of business transactions, preparation of quarterly and annual financial statements, execution of payment transactions, processing of reminders, account reconciliation, tax advice, preparation and submission of tax returns, handling of tax matters); Legal basis: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR), legal obligation (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. c) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).
Marketing, advertising and sales promotion: Procedures required in the context of marketing, advertising and sales promotion (e.g. market analysis and target group determination, development of marketing strategies, planning and implementation of advertising campaigns, design and production of advertising materials, online marketing including SEO and social media campaigns, event marketing and trade fair participation, customer loyalty programmes, sales promotion measures, performance measurement and optimisation of marketing activities, budget management and cost control); Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).
Public relations: Procedures required in the context of public relations and public relations (e.g. development and implementation of communication strategies, planning and implementation of PR campaigns, preparation and distribution of press releases, maintenance of media contacts, monitoring and analysis of media response, organisation of press conferences and public events, crisis communication, creation of content for social media and company websites, corporate branding support); Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Providers and services used in the course of business

Within the scope of our business activities, we use additional services, platforms, interfaces or plug-ins from third-party providers (hereinafter referred to as "services") in compliance with the statutory requirements. Their use is based on our interests in the proper, lawful and economical management of our business operations and internal organisation.

Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g. full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); payment data (e.g. bank details, invoices, payment history); Contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); Content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and posts, as well as information relating to them, such as details of authorship or time of creation). Contract data (e.g. subject matter of the contract, term, customer category).
Data subjects: Service recipients and clients; interested parties. Business and contractual partners.
Purposes of processing: Provision of contractual services and fulfilment of contractual obligations; office and organisational procedures. Business processes and business management procedures.
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion".
Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Provision of the online offer and web hosting

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

Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g. page views and length of stay, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions); Meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, persons involved). Log data (e.g. log files relating to logins or the retrieval of data or access times).
Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
Purposes of processing: Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness; information technology infrastructure (operation and provision of information systems and technical equipment (computers, servers, etc.)). Security measures.
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion".
Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures and services:

Provision of online services on rented storage space: To provide our online services, we use storage space, computing capacity and software that we rent or otherwise obtain from an appropriate server provider (also known as a "web host"); Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).
Collection of access data and log files: Access to our online offering is logged in the form of so-called "server log files". The server log files may include the address and name of the websites and files accessed, the date and time of access, the amount of data transferred, notification of successful access, browser type and version, the user's operating system, referrer URL (the previously visited page) and, as a rule, IP addresses and the requesting provider. The server log files can be used for security purposes, e.g. to prevent server overload (especially in the event of malicious attacks, known as DDoS attacks), and to ensure server utilisation and stability; legal basis: legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR). Deletion of data: Log file information is stored for a maximum period of 30 days and then deleted or anonymised. Data that must be retained for evidentiary purposes is excluded from deletion until the respective incident has been finally clarified.
23M: Services in the field of providing information technology infrastructure and related services (e.g. storage space and/or computing capacity); legal basis: legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Data processing agreement: Provided by the service provider; Service provider: 23M GmbH, Johann-Krane-Weg 18, D-48149 Münster, Germany; Website: https://23m.com. Privacy policy: https://23m.com/de/privacy.

Use of cookies

The term "cookies" refers to functions that store information on users' end devices and read it from them. Cookies can also be used for various purposes, such as to ensure the functionality, security and convenience of online services and to analyse visitor traffic. We use cookies in accordance with legal requirements. To do so, we obtain the consent of users in advance, where necessary. If consent is not necessary, we rely on our legitimate interests. This applies if the storage and retrieval of information is essential in order to provide expressly requested content and functions. This includes, for example, the storage of settings and ensuring the functionality and security of our online offering. Consent can be revoked at any time. We provide clear information about the scope of cookies and which cookies are used.

Information on the legal basis for data protection: Whether we process personal data using cookies depends on consent. If consent has been given, it serves as the legal basis. Without consent, we rely on our legitimate interests, which are explained above in this section and in the context of the respective services and procedures.

Storage duration: With regard to the storage duration, the following types of cookies are distinguished:

Temporary cookies (also known as session cookies): Temporary cookies are deleted at the latest after a user leaves an online offer and closes their end device (e.g. browser or mobile application).
Permanent cookies: Permanent cookies remain stored even after the end device is closed. This allows, for example, the login status to be stored and preferred content to be displayed directly when the user revisits a website. The user data collected using cookies may also be used for reach measurement. Unless we provide users with explicit information about the type and storage duration of cookies (e.g. when obtaining consent), they should assume that these are permanent and that the storage period may be up to two years.

General information on revocation and objection (opt-out): Users can revoke their consent at any time and also object to the processing in accordance with the legal requirements, including through the privacy settings of their browser.

Types of data processed: Meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, persons involved).
Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR). Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures and services:

Processing of cookie data based on consent: We use a consent management solution that obtains the consent of users for the use of cookies or for the procedures and providers specified in the consent management solution. This procedure is used to obtain, log, manage and revoke consent, in particular with regard to the use of cookies and similar technologies that are used to store, read and process information on users' end devices. As part of this procedure, users' consent is obtained for the use of cookies and the associated processing of information, including the specific processing and providers specified in the consent management procedure. Users also have the option of managing and revoking their consent. The declarations of consent are stored in order to avoid repeated queries and to be able to provide proof of consent in accordance with legal requirements. Storage takes place on the server side and/or in a cookie (known as an opt-in cookie) or using comparable technologies in order to be able to assign the consent to a specific user or their device. If no specific information about the providers of consent management services is available, the following general information applies: The consent is stored for up to two years. A pseudonymous user identifier is created, which is stored together with the time of consent, information about the scope of consent (e.g. categories of cookies and/or service providers concerned) and information about the browser, the system and the end device used; legal basis: consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR).
Usercentrics: Consent management: Procedure for obtaining, logging, managing and revoking consent, in particular for the use of cookies and similar technologies for storing, reading and processing information on users' end devices and for processing this information; Service provider: Usercentrics GmbH, Sendlinger Straße 7, 80331 Munich, Germany; Website: https://usercentrics.com/de/. Privacy policy: https://usercentrics.com/de/datenschutzerklaerung/.

Registration, login and user account

Users can create a user account. During registration, users are informed of the required mandatory information, which is processed for the purpose of providing the user account on the basis of contractual obligations. The data processed includes, in particular, login information (user name, password and email address).

When you use our registration and login functions and your user account, we store your IP address and the time of the respective user action. This data is stored on the basis of our legitimate interests and those of the users in protecting against misuse and other unauthorised use. This data is not passed on to third parties unless it is necessary to pursue our claims or there is a legal obligation to do so.

Users can be informed by email about processes that are relevant to their user account, such as technical changes.

Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g. full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and posts, as well as information relating to them, such as details of authorship or time of creation); Usage data (e.g. page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Log data (e.g. log files relating to logins or the retrieval of data or access times).
Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
Purposes of processing: Provision of contractual services and fulfilment of contractual obligations; security measures; organisational and administrative procedures. Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion". Deletion after termination.
Legal basis: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing, procedures and services:

Registration with real names: Due to the nature of our community, we ask users to only use our services under their real names. This means that the use of pseudonyms is not permitted. Legal basis: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR).
User profiles are not public: User profiles are not publicly visible or accessible.
Deletion of data after termination: When users terminate their user account, their data relating to the user account will be deleted, subject to any legal permission, obligation or consent of the users; legal basis: fulfilment of contract and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR).
No obligation to retain data: It is the responsibility of users to back up their data before the end of the contract upon termination. We are entitled to irretrievably delete all user data stored during the contract period; legal basis: fulfilment of the contract and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR).

Contact and enquiry management

When you contact us (e.g. by post, contact form, email, telephone or via social media) and within the framework of existing user and business relationships, the information provided by the enquirer will be processed to the extent necessary to respond to the contact enquiries and any requested measures.

Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g. full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and posts, as well as information relating to them, such as information on authorship or time of creation); Usage data (e.g. page views and length of stay, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, types of devices and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, persons involved).
Data subjects: Communication partners.
Purposes of processing: Communication; organisational and administrative procedures; feedback (e.g. collection of feedback via online form). Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion".
Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR). Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures and services:

Contact form: When you contact us via our contact form, by email or other means of communication, we process the personal data you provide to respond to and process your enquiry. This usually includes information such as your name, contact details and, if applicable, other information that you provide and that is necessary for the appropriate processing of your enquiry. We use this data exclusively for the stated purpose of establishing contact and communication; legal bases: fulfilment of contract and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Cloud services

We use software services accessible via the Internet and executed on the servers of their providers (so-called "cloud services", also referred to as "Software as a Service") for the storage and management of content (e.g. document storage and management, exchange of documents, content and information with specific recipients or publication of content and information).

In this context, personal data may be processed and stored on the providers' servers if it is part of communication processes with us or is otherwise processed by us as set out in this privacy policy. This data may include, in particular, master data and contact details of users, data on transactions, contracts, other processes and their contents. The providers of cloud services also process usage data and metadata, which they use for security purposes and to optimise their services.

If we use cloud services to provide forms or other documents and content for other users or publicly accessible websites, the providers may store cookies on users' devices for web analysis purposes or to remember user settings (e.g. in the case of media control).

Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g. full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); content data (e.g. text or image messages and posts, as well as information relating to them, such as details of authorship or time of creation); Usage data (e.g. page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Image and/or video recordings (e.g. photographs or video recordings of a person).
Data subjects: Interested parties; communication partners; business and contractual partners. Persons depicted.
Purposes of processing: Office and organisational procedures. Information technology infrastructure (operation and provision of information systems and technical equipment (computers, servers, etc.)).
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion".
Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing procedures, processes and services:

Google Photos: Online service for storing images and videos; service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.google.com/photos/about/. Privacy policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy.

Newsletter and electronic notifications

We send newsletters, emails and other electronic notifications (hereinafter referred to as "newsletters") only with the consent of the recipients or on the basis of a legal basis. If the content of the newsletter is specified when registering for the newsletter, this content is decisive for the consent of the users. To subscribe to our newsletter, it is usually sufficient to provide your email address. However, in order to provide you with a personalised service, we may ask you to provide your name so that we can address you personally in the newsletter, or to provide further information if this is necessary for the purpose of the newsletter.

Deletion and restriction of processing: We may store the email addresses that have been unsubscribed for up to three years on the basis of our legitimate interests before deleting them in order to be able to prove that consent was previously given. The processing of this data is limited to the purpose of potentially defending against claims. An individual request for deletion is possible at any time, provided that the former existence of consent is confirmed at the same time. In the event of obligations to permanently comply with objections, we reserve the right to store the email address in a block list (so-called "block list") for this purpose only.

The registration process is logged on the basis of our legitimate interests for the purpose of proving that it has been carried out correctly. If we commission a service provider to send emails, this is done on the basis of our legitimate interests in an efficient and secure delivery system.

Content:

Information about us, our services, promotions and offers.

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

Further information on processing, procedures and services:

Measurement of opening and click rates: The newsletters contain a so-called "web beacon", i.e. a pixel-sized file that is retrieved from our server or, if we use a mailing service provider, from their server when the newsletter is opened. During this retrieval, technical information such as details about your browser and your system, as well as your IP address and the time of retrieval, are initially collected. This information is used to improve our newsletter from a technical perspective based on the technical data or the target groups and their reading behaviour based on their location (which can be determined using the IP address) or the access times. This analysis also includes determining whether and when the newsletters are opened and which links are clicked. The information is assigned to the individual newsletter recipients and stored in their profiles until deletion. The evaluations serve to recognise the reading habits of our users and to adapt our content to them or to send different content according to the interests of our users. The measurement of opening and click rates, the storage of the measurement results in the user profiles and their further processing are based on the consent of the users. Unfortunately, it is not possible to revoke the performance measurement separately; in this case, the entire newsletter subscription must be cancelled or objected to. In this case, the stored profile information will be deleted; legal basis: consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR).
Klaviyo: Email and SMS marketing platform; service provider: Klaviyo, 225 Franklin St., Boston, Massachusetts 02110, USA; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); website: https://www.klaviyo.com/; privacy policy: https://www.klaviyo.com/legal/privacy-notice. Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF).

Advertising communication via email, post, fax or telephone

We process personal data for the purposes of advertising communication, which may take place via various channels, such as email, telephone, post or fax, in accordance with the legal requirements.

Recipients have the right to revoke their consent at any time or to object to advertising communications at any time.

After revocation or objection, we store the data necessary to prove the previous authorisation for contact or sending up to three years after the end of the year of revocation or objection on the basis of our legitimate interests. The processing of this data is limited to the purpose of a possible defence against claims. On the basis of the legitimate interest in permanently observing the revocation or objection of users, we also store the data necessary to avoid renewed contact (e.g. depending on the communication channel, the email address, telephone number, name).

Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g. full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or telephone numbers). Content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and posts, as well as information relating to them, such as details of authorship or time of creation).
Data subjects: Communication partners.
Purposes of processing: Direct marketing (e.g. by email or post); marketing. Sales promotion.
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion".
Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Web analysis, monitoring and optimisation

Web analysis (also known as "reach measurement") is used to evaluate visitor flows to our online offering and may include behaviour, interests or demographic information about visitors, such as age or gender, as pseudonymous values. With the help of reach analysis, we can, for example, identify at what times our online offering or its functions or content are used most frequently, or invite visitors to return. It also enables us to identify areas that require optimisation.

In addition to web analysis, we may also use test procedures to test and optimise different versions of our online offering or its components.

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

In addition, the IP addresses of users are stored. However, we use an IP masking procedure (i.e. pseudonymisation by shortening the IP address) to protect users. In general, no clear data of users (such as email addresses or names) is stored in the context of web analysis, A/B testing and optimisation, but rather pseudonyms. This means that neither we nor the providers of the software used know the actual identity of the users, but only the information stored in their profiles for the purpose of the respective procedures.

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

Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g. page views and length of stay, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, persons involved).
Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
Purposes of processing: Reach measurement (e.g. access statistics, recognition of returning visitors); profiles with user-related information (creation of user profiles). Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion". Storage of cookies for up to 2 years (unless otherwise specified, cookies and similar storage methods may be stored on users' devices for a period of two years).
Security measures: IP masking (pseudonymisation of the IP address).
Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures and services:

Google Analytics: We use Google Analytics to measure and analyse the use of our online offering on the basis of a pseudonymous user identification number. This identification number does not contain any unique data such as names or email addresses. It is used to assign analytical information to a device in order to recognise which content users have accessed within one or more usage sessions, which search terms they have used, whether they have accessed them again or interacted with our online offering. The time of use and duration of use are also stored, as well as the sources of users who refer to our online offering and technical aspects of their devices and browsers.
Pseudonymous user profiles are created using information from the use of different devices, whereby cookies may be used. Google Analytics does not log or store individual IP addresses for EU users. However, Analytics provides rough geographical location data by deriving the following metadata from IP addresses: city (and the derived latitude and longitude of the city), continent, country, region, subcontinent (and ID-based equivalents). For EU data traffic, IP address data is used exclusively for this derivation of geolocation data before being deleted immediately. It is not logged, is not accessible and is not used for any other purpose. When Google Analytics collects measurement data, all IP queries are performed on EU-based servers before traffic is forwarded to Analytics servers for processing. Service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR); Website: https://marketingplatform.google.com/intl/de/about/analytics/; Security measures: IP masking (pseudonymisation of the IP address); Privacy policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Data processing agreement: https://business.safety.google/adsprocessorterms/; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF), standard contractual clauses (https://business.safety.google/adsprocessorterms); Opt-out option: Opt-out plugin: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout?hl=de, settings for the display of advertisements: https://myadcenter.google.com/personalizationoff. Further information: https://business.safety.google/adsservices/ (types of processing and data processed).

Presence on social networks (social media)

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

We would like to point out that user data may be processed outside the European Union. This may result in risks for users, as it may, for example, make it more difficult to enforce user rights.

Furthermore, user data within social networks is generally processed for market research and advertising purposes. For example, usage profiles can be created based on the usage behaviour and resulting interests of users. The latter may in turn be used to place advertisements within and outside the networks that are likely to correspond to the interests of users. For this reason, cookies are usually stored on users' computers, in which the usage behaviour and interests of users are stored. In addition, data may also be stored in the user profiles independently of the devices used by users (in particular if they are members of the respective platforms and are logged in there).

For a detailed description of the respective forms of processing and the options for objection (opt-out), we refer to the privacy policies and information provided by the operators of the respective networks.

In the event of requests for information and the assertion of data subject rights, we would also like to point out that these can be most effectively asserted with the providers. Only the latter have access to the user data and can take appropriate measures and provide information directly. However, if you require assistance, please contact us.

Types of data processed: Contact details (e.g. postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); Content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and posts, as well as information relating to them, such as details of authorship or time of creation). Usage data (e.g. page views and length of stay, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, types of devices and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions).
Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
Purposes of processing: Communication; feedback (e.g. collection of feedback via online form). Public relations.
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion".
Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR).

Further information on processing operations, procedures and services:

Facebook pages: Profiles within the Facebook social network – Together with Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, we are responsible for collecting (but not further processing) data from visitors to our Facebook page (known as a "fan page"). This data includes information about the types of content that users view or interact with, or the actions they take (see "Things you and others do and share" in the Facebook Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy/), as well as information about the devices used by users (e.g. IP addresses, operating system, browser type, language settings, cookie data; see "Device Information" in the Facebook Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy/). As explained in the Facebook Data Policy under "How do we use this information?", Facebook also collects and uses information to provide analytics services, known as "Page Insights", to page operators so that they can gain insights into how people interact with their pages and the content associated with them. We have entered into a special agreement with Facebook ("Information about Page Insights", https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/page_controller_addendum), which specifically regulates the security measures that Facebook must observe and in which Facebook has agreed to comply with the rights of data subjects (i.e. users can, for example, submit information or deletion requests directly to Facebook). The rights of users (in particular the right to information, deletion, objection and complaint to the competent supervisory authority) are not restricted by the agreements with Facebook. Further information can be found in the "Page Insights Information" (https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/information_about_page_insights_data). Joint responsibility is limited to the collection and transfer of data to Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, a company based in the EU. Further processing of the data is the sole responsibility of Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, in particular with regard to the transfer of data to the parent company Meta Platforms, Inc. in the USA; Service provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, Merrion Road, Dublin 4, D04 X2K5, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.facebook.com; privacy policy: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy/. Basis for third country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF), standard contractual clauses (https://www.facebook.com/legal/EU_data_transfer_addendum).
YouTube: Social network and video platform; Service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Privacy policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF). Opt-out option: https://myadcenter.google.com/personalizationoff.

Plug-ins and embedded functions and content

We integrate functional and content elements into our online offering that are obtained from the servers of their respective providers (hereinafter referred to as "third-party providers"). These may be graphics, videos or city maps (hereinafter referred to collectively as "content").

The integration always requires that the third-party providers of this content process the IP address of the users, as they would not be able to send the content to their browser without the IP address. The IP address is therefore required for the display of this content or these functions. We endeavour to use only content whose respective providers use the IP address solely for the delivery of the content. Third-party providers may also use so-called pixel tags (invisible graphics, also known as "web beacons") for statistical or marketing purposes. Pixel tags can be used to evaluate information such as visitor traffic on the pages of this website. The pseudonymous information may also be stored in cookies on the user's device and may include technical information about the browser and operating system, referring websites, time of visit and other information about the use of our online offering, but may also be linked to such information from other sources.

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

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

Further information on processing processes, procedures and services:

Google Fonts (obtained from Google Server): Obtaining fonts (and symbols) for the purpose of technically secure, maintenance-free and efficient use of fonts and symbols with regard to topicality and loading times, their uniform display and consideration of possible licensing restrictions. The IP address of the user is shared with the font provider so that the fonts can be made available in the user's browser. In addition, technical data (language settings, screen resolution, operating system, hardware used) is transmitted, which is necessary for the provision of the fonts depending on the devices used and the technical environment. This data may be processed on a server of the font provider in the USA. When you visit our online offering, your browser sends HTTP requests to the Google Fonts Web API (i.e. a software interface for retrieving fonts). The Google Fonts Web API provides users with the Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) from Google Fonts and then the fonts specified in the CCS. These HTTP requests include (1) the IP address used by the respective user to access the Internet, (2) the requested URL on the Google server, and (3) the HTTP headers, including the user agent, which describes the browser and operating system versions of the website visitors, as well as the referrer URL (i.e. the website on which the Google font is to be displayed). IP addresses are neither logged nor stored on Google servers and are not analysed. The Google Fonts Web API logs details of HTTP requests (requested URL, user agent and referrer URL). Access to this data is restricted and strictly controlled. The requested URL identifies the font families for which the user wishes to load fonts. This data is logged so that Google can determine how often a particular font family is requested. With the Google Fonts Web API, the user agent must customise the font that is generated for the respective browser type. The user agent is primarily logged for debugging purposes and used to generate aggregated usage statistics that measure the popularity of font families. These aggregated usage statistics are published on the "Analytics" page of Google Fonts. Finally, the referrer URL is logged so that the data can be used for production maintenance and an aggregated report on the top integrations based on the number of font requests can be generated. According to its own information, Google does not use any of the information collected by Google Fonts to create profiles of end users or to serve targeted ads; service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; legal basis: legitimate interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://fonts.google.com/; Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF). Further information: https://developers.google.com/fonts/faq/privacy?hl=de.
YouTube videos: Videos stored on YouTube are embedded within our online offering. These YouTube videos are integrated via a special domain using the "youtube-nocookie" component in what is known as "extended data protection mode". In "extended data protection mode", only information that your IP address, browser and device information may be stored on your device in cookies or using similar methods that YouTube needs to display, control and optimise the video ad until the video starts. As soon as you play the videos, additional information may be processed by YouTube for the purpose of analysing usage behaviour, storing it in the user profile and personalising content and advertisements. The storage period for cookies can be up to two years; service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; legal basis: consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR); website: https://www.youtube.com; Privacy policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF). Further information: https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/171780?hl=de-DE#zippy=%2Cturn-on-privacy-enhanced-mode%2Cerweiterten-datenschutzmodus-aktivieren.

Application

The application process requires applicants to provide us with the data necessary for their assessment and selection. The information required is specified in the job description or, in the case of online forms, in the information provided there.

As a rule, the required information includes personal details such as name, address, contact details and proof of the qualifications required for the position. Upon request, we will be happy to provide further information on the details required.

If available, applicants are welcome to submit their applications via our online form, which is encrypted using the latest technology. Alternatively, it is also possible to send applications to us by email. However, we would like to point out that emails are generally not encrypted when sent over the Internet. Although emails are usually encrypted during transmission, this is not the case on the servers from which they are sent and received. We therefore cannot accept any responsibility for the security of your application during transmission between the sender and our server.

For the purposes of searching for applicants, submitting applications and selecting applicants, we may use applicant management or recruitment software and platforms and services provided by third parties in accordance with the statutory requirements.

Applicants are welcome to contact us regarding the method of submitting their application or send us their application by post.

Processing of special categories of data: If special categories of personal data (Art. 9 para. 1 GDPR, e.g. health data, such as severe disability or ethnic origin) are requested from applicants or provided by them, this data will be processed so that the controller or the data subject can exercise their rights under employment law and social security and social protection law and fulfil their obligations in this regard, in the case of the protection of the vital interests of the applicants or other persons or for the purposes of health care or occupational medicine, for the assessment of the working capacity of the employee, for medical diagnosis, for the provision of care or treatment in the health or social sector or for the management of systems and services in the health or social sector.

Deletion of data: The data provided by applicants may be further processed by us for the purposes of the employment relationship in the event of a successful application. Otherwise, if the application for a job vacancy is unsuccessful, the applicant's data will be deleted. The applicant's data will also be deleted if an application is withdrawn, which applicants are entitled to do at any time. Subject to a justified revocation by the applicant, the data will be deleted at the latest after a period of six months so that we can answer any follow-up questions regarding the application and fulfil our obligations to provide evidence in accordance with the regulations on equal treatment of applicants. Invoices for any travel expenses will be archived in accordance with tax regulations.

Inclusion in an applicant pool: Inclusion in an applicant pool, if offered, is based on consent. Applicants are informed that their consent to be included in the talent pool is voluntary, has no influence on the current application process and that they can withdraw their consent at any time in the future.

Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g. full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and posts, as well as information relating to them, such as details of authorship or time of creation). Applicant data (e.g. personal details, postal and contact addresses, documents relating to the application and the information contained therein, such as cover letters, CVs, references and other information provided by applicants in relation to a specific position or voluntarily provided by applicants about themselves or their qualifications).
Data subjects: Applicants.
Purposes of processing: Application process (justification and any subsequent implementation as well as possible subsequent termination of the employment relationship).
Storage and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information in the section "General information on data storage and deletion".
Legal basis: Application process as a pre-contractual or contractual relationship (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. b) GDPR).

Changes and updates

We ask you to regularly review the content of our privacy policy. We will amend the privacy policy as soon as changes to the data processing we carry out make this necessary. We will inform you as soon as the changes require your cooperation (e.g. consent) or other individual notification.

If we provide addresses and contact information for companies and organisations in this privacy policy, please note that these addresses may change over time and check the details before contacting them.

Supervisory authority responsible for us:

The Hessian Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information
Gustav-Stresemann-Ring 1
65189 Wiesbaden

+49 611 1408-0
poststelle@datenschutz.hessen.de

Definition

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

Employees: Employees are persons who are in an employment relationship, whether as staff, employees or in similar positions. An employment relationship is a legal relationship between an employer and an employee that is established by an employment contract or agreement. It includes the employer's obligation to pay the employee remuneration while the employee performs his or her work. The employment relationship comprises various phases, including the establishment, in which the employment contract is concluded, the performance, in which the employee carries out their work, and the termination, when the employment relationship ends, whether through dismissal, termination by mutual agreement or otherwise. Employee data is all information relating to these individuals and relevant to their employment. This includes aspects such as personal identification data, identification numbers, salary and bank details, working hours, holiday entitlements, health data and performance appraisals.
Inventory data: Inventory data includes essential information necessary for the identification and management of contractual partners, user accounts, profiles and similar assignments. This data may include personal and demographic information such as names, contact information (addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses), dates of birth and specific identifiers (user IDs). Inventory data forms the basis for any formal interaction between individuals and services, facilities or systems by enabling unique identification and communication.
Content data: Content data includes information generated during the creation, editing and publication of all types of content. This category of data can include text, images, videos, audio files and other multimedia content published on various platforms and media. Content data is not limited to the actual content itself, but also includes metadata that provides information about the content, such as tags, descriptions, author information and publication dates.
Contact data: Contact data is essential information that enables communication with individuals or organisations. It includes telephone numbers, postal addresses and email addresses, as well as communication channels such as social media handles and instant messaging identifiers.
Meta, communication and process data: Meta, communication and process data are categories that contain information about how data is processed, transmitted and managed. Meta data, also known as data about data, includes information that describes the context, origin and structure of other data. It may include details such as file size, creation date, author of a document and change history. Communication data captures the exchange of information between users via various channels, such as email correspondence, call logs, social media messages and chat histories, including the individuals involved, timestamps and transmission routes. Process data describes the processes and procedures within systems or organisations, including workflow documentation, transaction and activity logs, and audit logs used to track and verify processes.
Usage data: Usage data refers to information that captures how users interact with digital products, services or platforms. This data includes a wide range of information that shows how users use applications, which features they prefer, how long they stay on certain pages and how they navigate through an application. Usage data may also include frequency of use, timestamps of activities, IP addresses, device information, and location data. It is particularly valuable for analysing user behaviour, optimising user experiences, personalising content, and improving products or services. In addition, usage data plays a crucial role in identifying trends, preferences, and potential problem areas within digital offerings.
Personal data: "Personal data" is any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person (hereinafter referred to as "data subject"); A natural person is considered identifiable if they can be identified, directly or indirectly, in particular by association with an identifier such as a name, an identification number, location data, an online identifier (e.g. a cookie) or one or more factors specific to the physical, physiological, genetic, mental, economic, cultural or social identity of that natural person.
Profiles with user-related information: The processing of "profiles with user-related information", or "profiles" for short, includes any type of automated processing of personal data that consists of using this personal data to analyse, evaluate or predict certain personal aspects relating to a natural person (depending on the type of profiling, this may include different information relating to demographics, behaviour and interests, such as interaction with websites and their content, etc.). Cookies and web beacons are often used for profiling purposes.
Log data: Log data is information about events or activities that have been logged in a system or network. This data typically includes information such as time stamps, IP addresses, user actions, error messages and other details about the use or operation of a system. Log data is often used to analyse system problems, for security monitoring or to create performance reports.
Reach measurement: Reach measurement (also known as web analytics) is used to evaluate visitor flows to an online offering and can include the behaviour or interests of visitors in certain information, such as website content. With the help of reach analysis, operators of online offerings can, for example, identify at what time users visit their websites and what content they are interested in. This enables them to better tailor the content of their websites to the needs of their visitors. Pseudonymous cookies and web beacons are often used for reach analysis to recognise returning visitors and thus obtain more accurate analyses of the use of an online offering.
Tracking: Tracking refers to the tracking of user behaviour across multiple online services. As a rule, behavioural and interest information relating to the online services used is stored in cookies or on the servers of the providers of the tracking technologies (known as profiling). This information can then be used, for example, to display advertisements to users that are likely to correspond to their interests.
Controller: The "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.
Processing: "Processing" means any operation or set of operations performed on personal data, whether or not by automated means. The term is broad and covers virtually any handling of data, whether it is collection, evaluation, storage, transmission or deletion.
Contract data: Contract data is specific information relating to the formalisation of an agreement between two or more parties. It documents the terms and conditions under which services or products are provided, exchanged or sold. This category of data is essential for the administration and fulfilment of contractual obligations and includes both the identification of the contracting parties and the specific terms and conditions of the agreement. Contract data may include the start and end dates of the contract, the type of services or products agreed upon, price agreements, payment terms, termination rights, renewal options, and special conditions or clauses. It serves as the legal basis for the relationship between the parties and is crucial for clarifying rights and obligations, enforcing claims, and resolving disputes.
Payment data: Payment data includes all information required to process payment transactions between buyers and sellers. This data is crucial for e-commerce, online banking and any other form of financial transaction. It includes details such as credit card numbers, bank details, payment amounts, transaction data, verification numbers and billing information. Payment data may also include information about payment status, chargebacks, authorisations and fees.
Target group formation: Target group formation (also known as "custom audiences") refers to the process of determining target groups for advertising purposes, e.g. displaying advertisements. For example, based on a user's interest in certain products or topics on the Internet, it can be concluded that this user is interested in advertisements for similar products or the online shop where they viewed the products. The term "lookalike audiences" (or similar target groups) is used when content deemed suitable is displayed to users whose profiles or interests are presumed to correspond to those of the users for whom the profiles were created. Cookies and web beacons are generally used to create custom audiences and lookalike audiences.