Privacy Policy

preamble
With the following privacy policy, we would like to inform you about which types of your personal data (hereinafter also referred to as “data”) we process, for what purposes, and to what extent. This 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 the “online offering”). The terms used are not gender-specific.

As of: May 11, 2025

Table of Contents

  • preamble
  • Person responsible
  • Overview of processing
  • Relevant legal bases
  • Security measures
  • Transmission of personal data
  • International data transfers
  • General information on data storage and deletion
  • Rights of data subjects
  • Provision of the online service and web hosting
  • Use of cookies
  • Contact and inquiry management
  • Newsletters and electronic notifications
  • Web analysis, monitoring and optimization
  • Presences in social networks (social media)
  • Plug-ins and embedded functions and content

Overview of processing

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

Types of data processed

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

Categories of data subjects

  • Communication partner.
  • Users.

Purposes of processing

  • Communication.
  • Security measures.
  • Direct marketing.
  • Reach measurement.
  • Tracking.
  • Target group formation.
  • Organizational and administrative procedures.
  • Feedback.
  • Marketing.
  • Profiles with user-related information.
  • Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
  • Information technology infrastructure.
  • Public relations.

Relevant legal bases

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

  • Consent (Article 6 (1) (a) GDPR) – The data subject has given his or her consent to the processing of personal data concerning him or her for a specific purpose or several specific purposes.
  • Contractual performance and pre-contractual inquiries (Article 6 (1) (b) GDPR) – Processing is necessary for the performance of a contract to which the data subject is a party or for the implementation of pre-contractual measures taken at the request of the data subject.
  • Legitimate interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR) – processing is necessary to protect the legitimate interests of the controller or a third party, provided that the interests, fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subject which require protection of personal data do not override them.

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

Note on the applicability of the GDPR and the Swiss DSG: This data protection notice serves to provide information in accordance with both the Swiss DSG and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). For this reason, we ask you to note that the terms of 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 “particularly sensitive personal data” used in the Swiss DSG, the terms “processing” of “personal data” as well as “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 according to the Swiss DSG within the scope of the Swiss DSG.

Security measures

In accordance with the legal requirements, taking into account the state of the art, the implementation costs and the nature, scope, circumstances and purposes of the processing as well as the different probabilities of occurrence and the extent of the threat to the rights and freedoms of natural persons, we take appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of protection appropriate to the risk.

These measures include, in particular, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data by controlling physical and electronic access to the data, as well as the access, input, and transfer of data, ensuring its availability, and segregation. Furthermore, we have established procedures that ensure the exercise of data subjects’ rights, the deletion of data, and responses to data threats. Furthermore, we consider the protection of personal data right from the development and selection of hardware, software, and processes in accordance with the principle of data protection, through technology design, and through data protection-friendly default settings.

Transmission of personal data

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

International data transfers

Data processing in third countries: If we transfer data to a third country (i.e. outside the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA)) or if this occurs as part of the use of third-party services or the disclosure or transmission of data to other persons, bodies or companies (which can be identified by the postal address of the respective provider or if the data transfer to third countries is expressly referred to in the data protection declaration), 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 recognized as a secure legal framework by an adequacy decision of the EU Commission dated July 10, 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 to protect your data.

This dual safeguard ensures comprehensive protection of your data: The DPF forms the primary layer of protection, while the standard contractual clauses serve as an additional safeguard. Should changes occur within the framework of the DPF, the standard contractual clauses act as a reliable fallback option. This ensures that your data always remains adequately protected, even in the event of any political or legal changes.

For each service provider, we will inform you whether they are certified under the Data Privacy Framework and whether they have standard contractual clauses in place. Further information on the Data Privacy Framework and a list of certified companies can be found on the U.S. Department of Commerce website at https://www.dataprivacyframework.gov/ .

Appropriate security measures apply to data transfers to other third countries, in particular standard contractual clauses, explicit consent, or legally required transfers. Information on third-country transfers and applicable adequacy decisions can be found in the EU Commission’s information offering: 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 legal requirements as soon as the underlying consent is revoked or there are no further legal grounds for processing. This applies to cases where the original processing purpose no longer applies or the data is no longer needed. Exceptions to this rule exist if legal obligations or special interests require longer retention or archiving of the data.

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

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

If there are multiple details regarding the retention period or deletion period for a given date, the longest period always applies.

If a period does not explicitly 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 effective date of the termination or other termination of the legal relationship.

We process data that is no longer stored for the originally intended purpose but due to legal requirements or other reasons only for the reasons that justify its storage.

Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

  • Retention and deletion of data: The following general periods apply to retention and archiving under German law:
    • 10 years – retention period for books and records, annual financial statements, inventories, management reports, opening balance sheets as well as the work instructions and other organizational documents necessary for their understanding (Section 147 (1) No. 1 in conjunction with Section 3 AO, Section 14b (1) UStG, Section 257 (1) No. 1 in conjunction with Section 4 HGB).
    • 8 years – accounting documents, such as invoices and cost receipts (Section 147 (1) Nos. 4 and 4a in conjunction with Section 3 Sentence 1 AO and Section 257 (1) No. 4 in conjunction with Section 4 HGB).
    • 6 years – Other business documents: received commercial or business letters, reproductions of sent commercial or business letters, other documents insofar as they are relevant for taxation, e.g. hourly wage slips, operating statements, calculation documents, price labels, but also payroll documents insofar as they are not already accounting documents and cash register slips (Section 147 (1) Nos. 2, 3, 5 in conjunction with Section 3 AO, Section 257 (1) Nos. 2 and 3 in conjunction with Section 4 HGB).
    • 3 years – Data required to consider potential warranty and compensation claims or similar contractual claims and rights, as well as to process related inquiries, based on previous business experience and standard industry practices, will be stored for the duration of the regular statutory limitation period of three years (§§ 195, 199 BGB).

Rights of data subjects

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

  • Right of objection: You have the right to object at any time to the processing of personal data concerning you based on Art. 6 (1) (e) or (f) GDPR, for reasons related to your particular situation; 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 the purposes of such advertising; this also applies to profiling insofar as it is related to such direct marketing.
  • Right to withdraw consent: You have the right to withdraw consent at any time.
  • Right to information: You have the right to request confirmation as to whether the data in question is being processed and to request 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, in accordance with the statutory provisions, to request that the data concerning you be completed or that inaccurate data concerning you be corrected.
  • Right to erasure and restriction of processing: You have the right, in accordance with the statutory provisions, to demand that data concerning you be erased immediately or, alternatively, to demand that the processing of the data be restricted in accordance with the statutory provisions.
  • Right to data portability: You have the right to receive the data concerning you that you have provided to us in a structured, common and machine-readable format in accordance with the legal requirements or to request that it be transmitted to another controller.
  • Complaint to a supervisory authority: Without prejudice to any other administrative or judicial remedy, you have the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority, in particular in the Member State of your habitual residence, place of work or place of the alleged infringement, if you consider that the processing of personal data concerning you violates the provisions of the GDPR.

Provision of the online service and web hosting

We process user data 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 device.

  • Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g., page views and length of stay, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions); meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time information, identification numbers, persons involved); protocol data (e.g., log files regarding 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 services and user-friendliness; information technology infrastructure (operation and provision of information systems and technical devices (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 (1) (f) GDPR).

Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

  • Collection of access data and log files: Access to our online offering is logged in the form of so-called “server log files.” Server log files may include the address and name of the accessed web pages and files, the date and time of access, the amount of data transferred, 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. Server log files may be used for security purposes, e.g., to prevent server overload (particularly in the case of abusive attacks, so-called DDoS attacks), and to ensure server utilization and stability; legal basis: legitimate interests (Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR). Deletion of data: Log file information is stored for a maximum of 30 days and then deleted or anonymized. Data that needs to be retained for evidentiary purposes will not be deleted until the incident in question has been finally resolved.

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 a variety of purposes, such as ensuring the functionality, security, and convenience of online services, as well as creating analyses of visitor flows. We use cookies in accordance with legal regulations. Where necessary, we obtain users’ consent in advance. If consent is not required, we rely on our legitimate interests. This applies when storing and reading information is essential to providing expressly requested content and functions. This includes, for example, saving settings and ensuring the functionality and security of our online service. Consent can be revoked at any time. We provide clear information about the scope of cookies and which cookies are used.

Notes on data protection law: Whether we process personal data using cookies depends on consent. If consent is 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 processes.

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

  • Temporary cookies (also: session cookies): Temporary cookies are deleted at the latest after a user has left an online offering and closed their device (e.g. browser or mobile application).
  • Persistent cookies: Persistent cookies remain stored even after the device is closed. For example, the login status can be saved and preferred content can be displayed directly when the user visits a website again. Likewise, the user data collected using cookies can 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 they are permanent and that the storage period can be up to two years.

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

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

Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

  • Processing of cookie data based on consent: We use a consent management solution that obtains users’ consent to the use of cookies or to the procedures and providers named within 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 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 operations and providers named in the consent management procedure. Users also have the option of managing and revoking their consent. Consent declarations are saved to avoid repeated queries and to be able to provide evidence of consent in accordance with legal requirements. The data is stored on the server and/or in a cookie (so-called opt-in cookie) or using similar technologies in order to be able to assign consent to a specific user or their device. Unless specific information is available about the providers of consent management services, the following general information applies: Consent is stored for up to two years. A pseudonymous user identifier is created, which is stored together with the time of consent, information on the scope of consent (e.g., relevant categories of cookies and/or service providers), and information about the browser, system, and device used. Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6 (1) (a) GDPR).

Contact and inquiry management

When you contact us (e.g. by post, contact form, email, telephone or via social media) as well as within the framework of existing user and business relationships, the information provided by the person making the inquiry will be processed to the extent necessary to answer the contact inquiries and any requested measures.

  • Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g., full name, home address, contact information, customer number, etc.); contact data (e.g., postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); content data (e.g., textual or visual messages and contributions as well as related information, such as authorship or time of creation); usage data (e.g., page views and length of stay, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions); meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time information, identification numbers, persons involved).
  • Data subjects: communication partners.
  • Purposes of processing: Communication; organizational and administrative procedures; feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via online form). Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
  • 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 (1) (f) GDPR). Contractual performance and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6 (1) (b) GDPR).

Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

  • Contact form: When you contact us via our contact form, by email, or other communication channels, we process the personal data you provide to answer and process your request. This generally includes information such as your name, contact information, and, if applicable, other information that is provided to us and is necessary for appropriate processing. We use this data exclusively for the stated purpose of contact and communication; legal bases: contract fulfillment and pre-contractual inquiries (Art. 6 (1) (b) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR).

Newsletters and electronic notifications

We send newsletters, emails, and other electronic notifications (hereinafter “newsletters”) exclusively with the recipient’s consent or based on a legal basis. If the newsletter content is mentioned when registering for the newsletter, this content determines the user’s consent. Providing your email address is usually sufficient to register for our newsletter. However, in order to offer you a personalized service, we may ask for your name so that we can address you personally in the newsletter or for additional information if this is necessary for the purpose of the newsletter.

Deletion and restriction of processing: We may store unsubscribed email addresses for up to three years based on our legitimate interests before deleting them in order to be able to prove previously given consent. 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 previous consent is confirmed at the same time. In the case of obligations to permanently observe objections, we reserve the right to store the email address on a block list (so-called “block list”) for this purpose alone.

The registration process is logged based on our legitimate interests for the purpose of demonstrating its proper execution. If we commission a service provider to send emails, this is done based on our legitimate interests in an efficient and secure delivery system.

Contents:

Information about us, our services, promotions and offers.

  • Types of data processed: Inventory data (e.g., full name, home address, contact information, customer number, etc.); contact data (e.g., postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time information, 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).
  • Opt-out: You can unsubscribe from our newsletter at any time, i.e., revoke 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 by using one of the contact options listed above, preferably email.

Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

  • Measuring opening and click rates: The newsletters contain so-called “web beacons”, i.e. a pixel-sized file that is retrieved from our server or its server, if we use a shipping service provider, when the newsletter is opened. During this retrieval, technical information such as details about the browser and your system, as well as your IP address and the time of retrieval are initially collected. This information is used to technically improve our newsletter based on the technical data or the target groups and their reading behavior based on their retrieval locations (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 recognize the reading habits of our users and adapt our content to them or to send different content according to the interests of our users. The measurement of open and click rates as well as the storage of measurement results in user profiles – This text area must be activated with a premium license. Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6 (1) (a) GDPR).

Web analysis, monitoring and optimization

Web analytics (also known as “reach measurement”) is used to evaluate visitor traffic to our online offering and may include behavior, interests, or demographic information about visitors, such as age or gender, as pseudonymous values. Reach analysis allows us, for example, to determine when our online offering or its features or content are most frequently used, or to encourage reuse. It also allows us to understand which areas require optimization.

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

Unless otherwise stated below, profiles, i.e., data summarized 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 out. The data collected includes, in particular, websites visited and the 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, users’ IP addresses are stored. However, we use an IP masking process (i.e., pseudonymization by shortening the IP address) to protect users. Generally, no real user data (such as email addresses or names) is stored for web analysis, A/B testing, and optimization; instead, pseudonyms are used. This means that neither we nor the providers of the software used know the actual identity of the users, but only the information stored in their profiles for the purpose of the respective processes.

Notes on legal bases: If we ask users for their consent to the use of third-party providers, the legal basis for data processing is consent. Otherwise, user data is processed based on our legitimate interests (i.e., interest in efficient, economical, and user-friendly services). In this context, we would also like to draw your attention 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, intensity and frequency of use, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time information, 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 recurring visitors); profiles with user-related information (creation of user profiles). Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
  • Retention and Deletion: Deletion as described in the “General Information on Data Retention and Deletion” section. Cookies are retained for up to two years (unless otherwise stated, cookies and similar storage methods may be stored on users’ devices for a period of two years).
  • Security measures: IP masking (pseudonymization of the IP address).
  • Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6 (1) (a) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR).

Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

  • Google Analytics: We use Google Analytics to measure and analyze the use of our online offering based on 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 analysis information to a device in order to recognize which content users have accessed within one or more usage processes, which search terms they used, accessed these again, or interacted with our online offering. The time and duration of use are also stored, as are the sources of users who refer to our online offering and technical aspects of their devices and browsers.
    Pseudonymous profiles of users are created with information from the use of various devices, and cookies may be used for this purpose. Google Analytics does not log or store individual IP addresses for EU users. However, Analytics does provide rough geographic 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 counterparts). For EU data traffic, the IP address data is used exclusively for this derivation of geolocation data before being immediately deleted. It is not logged, is not accessible, and is not used for any other purposes. When Google Analytics collects measurement data, all IP queries are performed on EU-based servers before the 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 (1) (a) GDPR); Website: https://marketingplatform.google.com/intl/de/about/analytics/ ; Security measures: IP masking (pseudonymization 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 ), Data Privacy Framework (DPF) standard contractual clauses ( https://business.safety.google/adsprocessorterms ); Possibility of objection (opt-out): Opt-out plug-in: 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 the data processed).

Presences in social networks (social media)

We maintain online presences within social networks and process user data in this context in order to communicate with the 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 could pose risks for users, for example, because it could 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, user profiles can be created based on user behavior and the resulting interests of users. These profiles may in turn be used, for example, to place advertisements within and outside the networks that presumably correspond to the users’ interests. Therefore, cookies are generally stored on users’ computers, in which the user behavior and interests are saved. Furthermore, user profiles can also store data independent of the devices used by users (particularly if they are members of the respective platforms and are logged in there).

For a detailed description of the respective processing methods and the options for objection (opt-out), we refer to the data protection declarations and information provided by the operators of the respective networks.

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

  • Types of data processed: Contact data (e.g., postal and email addresses or telephone numbers); content data (e.g., textual or visual messages and posts, as well as related information, such as authorship or time of creation); usage data (e.g., page views and duration of visits, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and features).
  • Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Communication; feedback (e.g., collecting feedback via online form). Public relations.
  • 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 (1) (f) GDPR).

Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

  • Instagram: Social network, enables the sharing of photos and videos, commenting on and favorite posts, sending messages, subscribing to profiles and pages; Service provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, Merrion Road, Dublin 4, D04 X2K5, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 Para. 1 S. 1 lit. f) GDPR); Website: https://www.instagram.com ; Privacy policy: https://privacycenter.instagram.com/policy/ . Basis for third country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF), Data Privacy Framework (DPF).
  • Facebook Pages: Profiles within the social network Facebook – We, together with Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, are responsible for collecting (but not further processing) data from visitors to our Facebook page (so-called “fan page”). This data includes information about the types of content users view or interact with, or the actions they take (see “Things you and others do and provide” in the Facebook Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy/ ), as well as information about the devices users use (e.g., IP addresses, operating system, browser type, language settings, cookie data; see “Device Information” in the Facebook Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy/ ). As described in the Facebook Data Policy under “How do we use this information?” explains, Facebook also collects and uses information to provide analysis services, so-called “Page Insights,” for page operators so that they can gain insights into how people interact with their pages and the content associated with them. We have concluded a special agreement with Facebook (“Information about Page Insights,” https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/page_controller_addendum ), which specifically regulates the security measures Facebook must observe and in which Facebook has agreed to fulfill the rights of those affected (i.e., users can, for example, direct Facebook to requests for information or deletion). The rights of users (in particular to information, deletion, objection, and complaint to the responsible supervisory authority) are not restricted by the agreements with Facebook. Further information can be found in the “Information about Page Insights” ( https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/information_about_page_insights_data ). Joint controllership is limited to the collection and transmission of data to Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, a company based in the EU. The further processing of the data is the sole responsibility of Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, in particular the transmission of the data to the parent company Meta Platforms, Inc. in the USA; Service provider: Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, Merrion Road, Dublin 4, D04 X2K5, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 (1) (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 ), Data Privacy Framework (DPF) Standard Contractual Clauses (https://www.facebook.com/legal/EU_data_transfer_addendum ).
  • LinkedIn: Social Network – We, together with LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, are responsible for collecting (but not further processing) visitor data to create “Page Insights” (statistics) for our LinkedIn profiles. This data includes information about the types of content users view or interact with, and the actions they take. We also collect details about the devices used, such as IP addresses, operating systems, browser types, language settings, and cookie data, as well as information from user profiles, such as job function, country, industry, hierarchy level, company size, and employment status. Data protection information regarding LinkedIn’s processing of user data can be found in LinkedIn’s privacy policy: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy.
    We have concluded a special agreement with LinkedIn Ireland (“Page Insights Joint Controller Addendum”, https://legal.linkedin.com/pages-joint-controller-addendum ), which specifically regulates the security measures LinkedIn must observe and in which LinkedIn has agreed to fulfill the rights of those affected (i.e. users can, for example, address requests for information or deletion directly to LinkedIn). The rights of users (in particular the right to information, deletion, objection and complaint to the competent supervisory authority) are not restricted by the agreements with LinkedIn. Joint controllership is limited to the collection and transmission of data to LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, a company based in the EU. Further processing of the data is the sole responsibility of LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, in particular with regard to the transmission of data to the parent company LinkedIn Corporation in the USA; Service provider: LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, Wilton Place, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR); Website: https://www.linkedin.com ; Privacy Policy: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy ; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF), standard contractual clauses ( https://legal.linkedin.com/dpa ), Data Privacy Framework (DPF) standard contractual clauses ( https://legal.linkedin.com/dpa ). Opt-out option: https://www.linkedin.com/psettings/guest-controls/retargeting-opt-out .

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 include, for example, graphics, videos, or city maps (hereinafter collectively referred to as “content”).

Integration always requires that the third-party providers of this content process the user’s IP address, as without an IP address they would not be able to send the content to their browser. The IP address is therefore required to display this content or functions. We endeavor to only use content whose respective providers only use the IP address to deliver the content. Third-party providers may also use so-called pixel tags (invisible graphics, also known as “web beacons”) for statistical or marketing purposes. The “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 contain, among other things, technical information about the browser and operating system, referring websites, the time of visit and other information about the use of our online offering, but may also be linked to such information from other sources.

Notes on legal bases: If we ask users for their consent to the use of third-party providers, the legal basis for data processing is permission. Otherwise, user data is processed based on our legitimate interests (i.e., interest in efficient, economical, and user-friendly services). In this context, we would also like to draw your attention 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, intensity and frequency of use, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions); meta, communication, and procedural data (e.g., IP addresses, time information, identification numbers, persons involved); location data (information on the geographical location of a device or person).
  • Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
  • Purposes of processing: Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness; reach measurement (e.g., access statistics, recognition of recurring visitors); tracking (e.g., interest/behavior-based profiling, use of cookies); target group building; marketing.
  • Retention and Deletion: Deletion as described in the “General Information on Data Retention and Deletion” section. Cookies are retained for up to two years (unless otherwise stated, cookies and similar storage methods may be stored on users’ devices for a period of two years).
  • Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6 (1) (a) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR).

Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

  • Google Fonts (obtained from Google servers): Obtaining fonts (and symbols) for the purpose of technically secure, maintenance-free, and efficient use of fonts and symbols with regard to timeliness and loading times, their consistent presentation, and consideration of possible licensing restrictions. The font provider is informed of the user’s IP address 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 that is necessary for providing 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 visiting our online offering, users’ browsers send their browser 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 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 website visitors, and the referring URL (i.e., the web page where the Google font should be displayed). IP addresses are neither logged nor stored on Google servers, and they are not analyzed. The Google Fonts Web API logs details of the HTTP requests (requested URL, user agent, and referring URL). Access to this data is limited and tightly controlled. The requested URL identifies the font families for which the user wants to load fonts. This data is logged so that Google can determine how often a particular font family is requested. The Google Fonts Web API requires the user agent to customize the font generated for each browser type. The user agent is logged primarily 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 Google Fonts Analytics page. Finally, the referring URL is logged so that the data can be used for production maintenance and to generate an aggregated report on top integrations based on the number of font requests. Google states that it does not use any of the information collected by Google Fonts to build end-user profiles or to deliver targeted ads. Service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4.Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 (1) (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 .
  • Google Maps: We integrate maps from the Google Maps service provided by Google. The data processed may include, in particular, users’ IP addresses and location data. Service provider: Google Cloud EMEA Limited, 70 Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Dublin 2, Ireland. Legal basis: consent (Art. 6 (1) (a) GDPR); website: https://mapsplatform.google.com/ ; privacy policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy . Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF).
  • YouTube videos: video content; service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; legal basis: consent (Art. 6 (1) (a) GDPR); website: https://www.youtube.com ; privacy policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy ; basis for third country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF), Data Privacy Framework (DPF). Possibility of objection (opt-out): opt-out plug-in: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout?hl=de , settings for the display of advertisements: https://myadcenter.google.com/personalizationoff .