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Privacy Policy

Preamble

With the following privacy policy, we would like 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.

As of 14 November 2025

Table of contents

Responsible party

E-stahl GmbH
Im Schiffels 29
55491 Büchenbeuren

Authorised representatives: Sven Marx

Email address: info@e-stahl.com

Legal notice: https://www.estahl.shop/Rechtliches/Impressum/

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.
  • Employee data.
  • Payment data.
  • Contact details.
  • Content data.
  • Contract data.
  • Usage data.
  • Meta, communication and procedural data.
  • Social data.
  • Image and/or video recordings.
  • Audio recordings.
  • Log data.
  • Performance and behaviour data.
  • Working time data.
  • Salary data.

Special categories of data

  • Health data.
  • Religious or philosophical beliefs.
  • Trade union membership.

Categories of data subjects

  • Service recipients and clients.
  • Users.
  • Business and contractual partners.
  • Depicted persons.
  • Third parties.

Purposes of processing

  • Provision of contractual services and fulfilment of contractual obligations.
  • Communication.
  • Security measures.
  • Reach measurement.
  • Tracking.
  • Office and organisational procedures.
  • Conversion measurement.
  • Target group formation.
  • Organisational and administrative procedures.
  • Feedback.
  • Marketing.
  • Profiles with user-related information.
  • Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness.
  • Establishment and implementation of employment relationships.
  • Information technology infrastructure.
  • Public relations.
  • Business processes and business management procedures.
  • Artificial intelligence (AI).

Relevant legal basis h2>

Relevant legal bases under the GDPR: Below you will find an overview of the legal bases of the GDPR on which we process personal data. Please note that, in addition to the provisions of the GDPR, national data protection regulations may apply in your or our country of residence or domicile. Should more specific legal bases be relevant in individual cases, we will inform you of these in the privacy policy. - The data subject has given their consent to the processing of their personal data for one or more specific purposes. - 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. - Processing is necessary for compliance with a legal obligation to which the controller is subject. - Processing is necessary to safeguard the legitimate interests of the controller or a third party, provided that the interests, fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subject requiring the protection of personal data do not override those interests.

Processing of special categories of personal data relating to health, employment and social security (Art. 9(2)(h) GDPR) - Processing is necessary for the purposes of health care or occupational medicine, for the assessment of the employee's ability to work, medical diagnosis, medical care or treatment in the health or social sector, or for the management of health or social care systems and services on the basis of Union or Member State law or pursuant to a contract with a health professional.

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 regulations 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 spatial 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’ as well as ‘legitimate interest’ and ‘special categories of data’ used in the GDPR are used. However, the legal meaning of the terms continues to be determined in accordance with the Swiss Data Protection Act within the scope of its application.

Security measures

We take appropriate security measures in accordance with legal requirements, taking into account the state of the art, implementation costs and the nature, scope, circumstances and purposes of processing, as well as the varying probabilities of occurrence and the extent of the threat to the rights and freedoms of natural persons, 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 access to it, input, transfer, availability and separation. We have also established procedures to ensure that data subjects' rights are exercised, data is deleted and responses are made to data breaches. 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 technology 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, the more advanced and secure version of SSL, ensures that all data transfers 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 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 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 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 privacy policy 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 European Commission and establish contractual obligations to protect 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 any political or legal changes.

We will inform you whether the 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 US Department of Commerce website at https://www.dataprivacyframework.gov/ (in English).

For data transfers to other third countries, appropriate safeguards apply , in particular standard contractual clauses, explicit consent or transfers required by law. Information on third country transfers and applicable adequacy decisions can be found in the information provided by the European 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 consents are revoked or there are no further legal grounds 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 law 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 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. We only process data that is no longer required for its original purpose but is retained due to legal requirements or other reasons for reasons that justify its storage.

Storage and deletion of data: The following general periods apply to storage and archiving under 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 required 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 relevant for taxation purposes, e.g. hourly wage slips, operating accounting sheets, calculation documents, price labels, but also payroll accounting documents, insofar as they are not already accounting documents, and cash register receipts (Section 147 (1) Nos. 2, 3, 5 in conjunction with (3) AO, § 257 (1) No. 2 and 3 in conjunction with (4) HGB).
  • 3 years - Data required to consider potential warranty and damage claims or similar contractual claims and rights and to process related enquiries, based on previous business experience and customary industry practices, are stored for the duration of the regular statutory limitation period (Sections 195, 199 BGB).

Rights of data subjects

Rights of data subjects under the GDPR: As a data subject, you have various rights under the GDPR, 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 carried out on the basis of 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 the purpose of such marketing; this also applies to profiling insofar as it is related to such direct marketing.
  • Right to withdraw consent: You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time.
  • Right 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: strong> In accordance with legal requirements, you have the right to request that data concerning you be completed or that incorrect data concerning you be corrected.
  • Right to erasure and restriction of processing: In accordance with legal requirements, you have the right to request that data concerning you be deleted without delay or, alternatively, to request a restriction on the processing of the data in accordance with legal requirements. or, alternatively, to request a restriction on the processing of the data in accordance with legal requirements. in accordance with legal requirements in a structured, commonly used and machine-readable format or to request its transfer to another controller.
  • 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 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 place of work or the place of the alleged if you believe that the processing of personal data relating to you violates the GDPR.

    Business services

    We process data relating to 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 associated measures and in relation to communication with contractual partners (or pre-contractual), for example to respond to enquiries. We use this data to fulfil our contractual obligations. This includes, in particular, the obligations to provide the agreed services, any update obligations and remedies in the event of warranty and other service disruptions. In addition, we use the data to protect our rights and for the purposes of administrative tasks associated with these obligations and company organisation. We also process the data on the basis of our legitimate interests in both the proper and economic management of our business and security measures to protect our contractual partners and our business operations from misuse, endangering 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 financial 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 other forms of processing, such as for marketing purposes, within the scope of this data protection declaration. We will inform contractual partners before or during data collection, e.g. in online forms, by means of special markings (e.g. colours) or symbols (e.g. asterisks or Ä), or in person.

    We delete the data after the expiry of statutory warranty and comparable obligations, i.e. generally after four years, unless the data is stored in a customer account, e.g. as long as it must be retained for legal archiving reasons (usually ten years for tax purposes). Data disclosed to us by the contractual partner within the scope of an order will be deleted in accordance with the specifications and, in principle, 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 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: 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(1)(b) GDPR); legal obligation (Art. 6(1)(c) GDPR) . Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).

    Further information on processing procedures, processes and services:

    • Online shop, order forms, e-commerce and service fulfilment: We process our customers' data in order 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, freight forwarding and shipping companies, to deliver or execute the order to our customers. , we use service providers, in particular postal, freight forwarding and shipping companies, to carry out the delivery or execution for our customers. We use the services of banks and payment service providers to process payment transactions. The required information is marked as such in the context of the order or comparable purchase process and includes the information required for delivery or provision and billing, as well as contact information for any necessary consultation. Legal basis: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR).
    • Craft services: We process the data of our customers and clients (hereinafter referred to collectively as ‘customers’), in order to enable them to select, purchase or commission the selected services or works and related activities, as well as to pay for and deliver or execute or provide them.
      The required information is marked as such in the context of the order, purchase order or comparable contract conclusion and includes the information required for delivery and billing, as well as contact information for any necessary consultation. Legal basis: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR).

    Use of online platforms for offering and sales purposes

    We offer our services on online platforms operated by other service providers. In this context, the data protection information of the respective platforms applies in addition to our data protection information. This applies in particular with regard to the execution of the payment process and the procedures used on the platforms for reach measurement and interest-based marketing.

    • 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 procedural data (e.g. IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, persons involved).
    • Data subjects: Service recipients and clients; business and contractual partners. Prospective customers. Provision of contractual services and fulfilment of contractual obligations; marketing; business processes and business management procedures; conversion measurement (measurement of the effectiveness of marketing measures). 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: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR). li>

    Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

    • Shopware: Platform through which e-commerce services are offered and performed. The services and the processes associated with them include, in particular, online shops, websites, their offers and content, community elements, purchase and payment transactions, customer communication, analysis and marketing; Service provider: shopware AG, Ebbinghoff 10, 48624 Schöppingen, Germany; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.shopware.com/de/. Privacy policy: https://www.shopware.com/de/datenschutz/.

    Providers and services used in the course of business activities

    In the course 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 legal requirements. Their use is based on our interest in the proper, lawful and economical management of our business operations and our 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. 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).
    • Data subjects: Service recipients and clients; prospective customers; business and contractual partners. 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. 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:

    Payment procedures

    Within the framework of contractual and other legal relationships, on the basis of legal obligations or otherwise on the basis of our legitimate interests, we offer data subjects efficient and secure payment options and use banks, credit institutions and other service providers (collectively referred to as ‘payment service providers’) for this purpose.

    The data processed by the payment service providers includes inventory data, such as name and address, bank details such as account numbers or credit card numbers, passwords, TANs and checksums, as well as contract, sum and recipient-related information. This information is necessary to carry out the transactions. However, the data entered is only processed and stored by the payment service providers. This means that we do not receive any account or credit card-related information, but only information confirming or denying the payment. Under certain circumstances, the data may be transmitted by the payment service providers to credit agencies. The purpose of this transmission is to verify identity and creditworthiness. The purpose of this transfer is to verify identity and creditworthiness. For more information, please refer to the terms and conditions and privacy policy of the payment service providers.

    Payment transactions are subject to the terms and conditions and data protection information of the respective payment service providers, which can be accessed on their respective websites or transaction applications. We also refer to these for further information and the assertion of rights of revocation, information and other rights of data subjects.

    • 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); Contract data (e.g. subject matter of the contract, term, customer category); 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). Contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or telephone numbers).
    • Data subjects: Service recipients and clients; business and contractual partners. Prospective customers. li>
    • 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(1)(b) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).

    Further information on processing operations, procedures and services:

    Provision of online services 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 terminal 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 and frequency of visits, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions); meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, time and frequency of visits, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions); meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, time and frequency of visits, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions); meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, time and frequency of visits , 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). 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: 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. Provision of contractual services and fulfilment of contractual obligations.Retention 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 operations, procedures and services:

    • ecomDATA: web hosting; Service provider: ecomDATA GmbH
      Steinamangererstraße 9/16
      7400 Oberwart
      AUSTRIA; Website: https://www.ecomdata.de. Privacy policy: https://www.ecomdata.de/datenschutz/.
    • 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 a corresponding server provider (also known as a ‘web host’) or otherwise obtain; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(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 case of malicious attacks, so-called DDoS attacks), and, on the other hand, to ensure server utilisation 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 anonymised. Data that must be retained for evidentiary purposes is excluded from deletion until the respective incident has been finally clarified. The web hosting services we use also include the sending, receiving and storage of emails. For these purposes, the addresses of the recipients and senders, as well as other information relating to the sending of emails (e.g. the providers involved) and the content of the respective emails are processed. The aforementioned data may also be processed for the purpose of detecting spam. Please note that emails on the internet are generally not sent in encrypted form. As a rule, emails are encrypted during transmission, but (unless a so-called end-to-end encryption method is used) they are not stored on the servers from which they are sent and received. We therefore cannot accept any responsibility for the transmission of emails between the sender and the recipient on our server. We therefore cannot accept any responsibility for the transmission of emails between the sender and the recipient on our server; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).
    • 1&1 IONOS: Services in the field of providing information technology infrastructure and related services (e.g. storage space and/or computing capacity); Service provider: 1&1 IONOS SE, Elgendorfer Str. 57, 56410 Montabaur, Germany; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.ionos.de; Privacy policy: https://www.ionos.de/terms-gtc/terms-privacy. Data processing agreement: https://www.ionos.de/ help/data-protection/general-information-on-the-general-data-protection-regulation-gdpr/conclude-a-data-processing-agreement-dpa-with-ionos/.

    Use of cookies

    The term ‘cookies’ refers to functions that store and read information on users' end devices. Cookies can also be used for various purposes, such as to ensure the functionality, security and convenience of online offerings and to analyse visitor traffic. We use cookies in accordance with legal requirements. To this end, we obtain the consent of users in advance if necessary. If consent is not necessary, we rely on our legitimate interests. This applies if the use of cookies is necessary to fulfil a contract with the user or is necessary to fulfil a legal obligation. We use cookies in accordance with legal requirements. To this end, we obtain the consent of users in advance if 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, storing 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. 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 period: strong>With regard to the storage period, 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 offering and closes their terminal device (e.g. browser or mobile application).
    • Permanent cookies: Permanent cookies remain stored on the terminal device even after the terminal device has been closed. . This allows, for example, the log-in status to be saved and preferred content to be displayed directly when the user revisits a website. Similarly, user data collected with the help of cookies can be used to measure reach. Unless we provide users with explicit information about the type and storage period 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 their consent at any time and also object to the processing in accordance with the legal requirements, including by means of their browser's privacy settings.

    • Types of data processed: 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, intensity and frequency of use, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions).
    • Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
    • Purposes of processing: Provision of our online offering and user-friendliness. Consent (Art. 6(1)(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 users' consent to the use of cookies or to the procedures and providers specified in the consent management solution. This procedure is used to obtain, logging, managing and revoking 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 for the use of cookies and the associated processing of information, including the specific processing and providers mentioned 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 (so-called opt-in cookie) or by means of comparable technologies in order to be able to assign the consent to a specific user or their device. If no specific information is available about the providers of consent management services, the following general information applies: The duration of the storage of consent is 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 the system and the terminal device used. Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR).
    • Cookie opt-out: In the footer of our website, you will find a link that allows you to change your cookie settings and revoke your consent.

    Contact and enquiry management

    When you contact us (e.g. by post, contact form, e-mail, 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 e-mail 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). Meta, communication and procedural data (e.g. IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, persons involved).
    • Data subjects: Communication partners. 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) . Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR).

    Further information on processing procedures, processes and services:

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

    Artificial intelligence (AI)

    We use artificial intelligence (AI), which involves the processing of personal data. The specific purposes and our interest in the use of AI are listed below. We understand AI to mean, in accordance with the term ‘AI system’ as defined in Article 3(1) of the AI Regulation, we understand AI to mean a machine-based system that is designed for variable degrees of autonomous operation, can be adaptable after its introduction, and produces results such as predictions, content, recommendations or decisions from the inputs received that influence physical or virtual environments. and which, after implementation, can be adapted and produces results such as predictions, content, recommendations or decisions from the inputs received, which may influence physical or virtual environments.

    Our AI systems are used in strict compliance with legal requirements. These include both specific regulations for artificial intelligence and data protection requirements. In particular, we adhere to the principles of lawfulness, transparency, fairness, human control, purpose limitation, data minimisation, integrity and confidentiality. We ensure that the processing of personal data is always carried out on a legal basis. This can be either the consent of the persons concerned or a legal permission.

    When using external AI systems, we carefully select their providers (hereinafter referred to as ‘AI providers’). In accordance with our legal obligations, we ensure that AI providers comply with the applicable regulations. We also observe our obligations when using or operating the AI services we purchase. The processing of personal data by us and the AI providers is carried out exclusively on the basis of consent or legal authorisation. In doing so, we attach particular importance to transparency, fairness and the preservation of human control over AI-supported decision-making processes.

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

    • Types of data processed: Content data (e.g. textual or image-based 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).
    • Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services). Third parties.
    • Purposes of processing: strong> Artificial intelligence (AI).
    • 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 operations, procedures and services:

    • ChatGPT: AI-based service designed to understand and generate natural language and related inputs and data, analyse information and make predictions (‘AI’, i.e. ‘artificial intelligence’, is to be understood in the applicable legal sense of the term); Service provider: OpenAI Ireland Ltd, 117-126 Sheriff Street Upper, D01 YC43 Dublin 1, Ireland; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://openai.com/de-DE/chatgpt/overview/; Privacy policy: https://openai.com/de-DE/policies/privacy-policy/ . Opt-out option: https://privacy.openai.com/policies?modal=select-subject.
    • DeepL: Translation of texts into different languages and provision of synonyms and context examples. Support in correcting and improving texts in different languages; Service provider: DeepL SE, Maarweg 165, 50825 Cologne, Germany; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.deepl.com; Privacy policy: https://www.deepl.com/de/privacy. Data processing agreement: Provided by the service provider.

      Video conferences, online meetings, webinars and screen sharing

      We use platforms and applications from other providers (hereinafter referred to as ‘conference platforms’) for the purpose of conducting When selecting conference platforms and their services, we comply with legal requirements.

      Data processed by conference platforms: When participants take part in a conference, the conference platforms process the personal data of the participants as specified below. The scope of the processing depends, on the one hand, on what data is required for a specific conference (e.g. provision of access data or real names) and which optional information is provided by the participants. In addition to processing for the purpose of conducting the conference, the conference platforms may also process participant data for security purposes or service optimisation. The data processed includes personal data (first name, surname), contact information (e-mail address, telephone number), access data (access codes or passwords), profile pictures, information on professional position/function, the IP address of the internet access, information on the participants' end devices, their operating system, the browser and its technical and language settings, information on the content of communication processes, i.e. entries in chats as well as audio and video data, and the use of other available functions (e.g. surveys). The content of communications is encrypted to the extent technically provided by the conference providers. If participants use functions available during the conference, such as The content of communications is encrypted to the extent technically provided by the conference providers. If participants are registered as users on the conference platforms, further data may be processed in accordance with the agreement with the respective conference provider.

      Logging and recordings: If text entries, participation results (e.g. from surveys) and video or audio recordings are logged, participants will be informed of this in advance and, where necessary, asked for their consent.

      Data protection measures for participants: Please refer to the data protection information provided by the conference platforms for details on how your data is processed and select the optimal security and data protection settings in the conference platform settings. Please also ensure that your data and privacy are protected in the background of your recording for the duration of a video conference (e.g. by informing your housemates, locking doors and, if technically possible, using the function to blur the background). Links to the conference rooms and access data must not be passed on to unauthorised third parties.

      Information on legal bases: If, in addition to the conference platforms, we also process user data and ask users for their consent to the use of the conference platforms or certain functions (e.g. consent to the recording of conferences), the legal basis for the processing is this consent. Furthermore, our processing may be necessary for the fulfilment of our contractual obligations (e.g. in participant lists, in the case of processing conference results, etc.). fulfilment of our contractual obligations (e.g. in participant lists, in the case of processing conversation results, etc.). In addition, user data is processed on the basis of our legitimate interests in efficient and secure communication with our communication partners.

      • 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 information about 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); image and/or video recordings (e.g. photographs or video recordings of a person); sound recordings. Log data (e.g. log files relating to logins or the retrieval of data or access times).
      • Data subjects: Communication partners; users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services). Persons depicted. Office and organisational 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(1)(f) GDPR).

      Further information on processing procedures, processes and services:

      • Microsoft Teams: Used to conduct online events, conferences and communication with internal and external participants. Voice transmission, direct messaging, group communication and collaboration functions are used; name, business contact details, work profile, participation and content (audio/video, voice, chat, files, voice transcription) are processed for the purposes of and in the interest of increasing efficiency and productivity, cost efficiency, flexibility, mobility, improved communication, IT security, use of a central platform and Microsoft business processing. Audio signals are not stored unless recording is activated. Meeting and conference recordings are stored for 90 days by default, unless a different duration is specified. Chat and file content is stored according to the guidelines specified by the administrator or user; the default setting is no automatic deletion. Channels must be renewed every 180 days, otherwise content will be deleted. In addition, system-generated log, diagnostic and metadata are processed, as well as diagnostic data for product stability, security and improvement; Service provider: Microsoft Ireland Operations Limited, One Microsoft Place, South County Business Park, Leopardstown, Dublin 18, D18 P521, Ireland; Microsoft Corporation, One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA 98052-6399, USA; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.microsoft.com/de-de/ microsoft-teams/; Privacy policy: https://privacy.microsoft.com/de-de/privacystatement, Security information: https://www.microsoft.com/de-de/trustcenter. Basis for third country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF), Standard contractual clauses (https://www.microsoft.com/licensing/docs/view/Microsoft-Products-and-Services-Data-Protection-Addendum-DPA).

      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 time our online offering or its functions or content are used most frequently, or invite reuse. It also enables us to identify areas that require optimisation.

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

      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 terminal 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 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 recipient-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, 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). . >Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR). Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(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 analysis information to a terminal device in order to identify which content users have accessed within one or more usage sessions, which search terms they have used, which they have accessed again or with which they have interacted with our online offering. The time 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 end devices and browsers. Pseudonymous user profiles are created with information from the use of various devices, whereby cookies may be used. Google Analytics does not log or store individual IP addresses for EU users. However, Analytics does create rough geographical profiles, which may involve the use of cookies. , 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 counterparts). For EU traffic, 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 used for any other purpose. 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: strong> 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); Right to object (opt-out): 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 the data processed) .
      • Google Tag Manager: We use Google Tag Manager, a Google software that allows us to centrally manage so-called website tags via a user interface. Tags are small code elements on our website that are used to record and analyse visitor activity. This technology helps us to improve our website and the content offered on it. Google Tag Manager itself does not create user profiles, store cookies with user profiles or perform any independent analyses. Its function is limited to simplifying and streamlining the integration and management of tools and services that we use on our website. Nevertheless, when using Google Tag Manager, the IP address of the user is transmitted to Google, which is necessary for technical reasons in order to implement the services we use. Cookies may also be set in the process. However, this data processing only takes place if services are integrated via Tag Manager. For more detailed information about these services and their data processing, please refer to the following sections of this privacy policy. 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; 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).

      Online marketing

      We process personal data for the purpose of online marketing, which may include, in particular, the marketing of advertising space or the display of advertising and other content (collectively referred to as ‘content’) based on the potential interests of users and the measurement of its effectiveness.

      For these purposes, so-called user profiles are created and stored in a file (the so-called ‘cookie’) or similar procedures are used to store information about the user that is relevant for the presentation of the aforementioned content. This may include, for example, content viewed, websites visited, online networks used, but also communication partners and technical information, such as the browser used, the computer system used, and information about usage times and functions used. If users have consented to the collection of their location data, this may also be processed.

      In addition, the IP addresses of users are stored. However, we use available IP masking procedures (i.e. pseudonymisation by shortening the IP address) to protect users. In general, no clear data of users (such as email addresses or names) are stored in the online marketing process, but pseudonyms. This means that neither we nor the providers of the online marketing processes know the actual identity of the users, but only the information stored in their profiles.

      The statements in the profiles are usually stored in cookies or by means of similar procedures. These cookies can generally also be read later on other websites that use the same online marketing method, analysed for the purpose of displaying content, supplemented with further data and stored on the server of the online marketing method provider.

      In exceptional cases, it is possible to assign clear data to the profiles, primarily if the users are members of a social network, for example, whose online marketing method we use and the network links the user profiles with the aforementioned information. Please note that users can make additional agreements with the providers , for example by giving their consent during registration.

      We generally only have access to aggregated information about the success of our advertisements. However, as part of so-called conversion measurements, we can which of our online marketing methods have led to a so-called conversion, i.e. for example to the conclusion of a contract with us. Conversion measurement is used solely for the purpose of analysing the success of our marketing measures.

      Unless otherwise stated, please assume that the cookies used will be stored for a period of two years.

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

      Information on revocation and objection:

      We refer you to the data protection information of the respective providers and the options for objection (so-called ‘opt-out’) specified for the providers. If no explicit opt-out option has been specified, you have the option of disabling cookies in your browser settings. However, this may restrict the functions of our online offering. We therefore recommend the following additional opt-out options, which are offered in summary for the respective areas:

      a) Europe: https://www.youronlinechoices.eu.

      b) Canada: https://youradchoices.ca/.

      c) USA: https://optout.aboutads.info/.

      d) Cross-regional: https://optout.aboutads.info.

      • Types of data processed: Usage data (e.g. page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions). Meta, communication and procedural data (e.g. IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, 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); tracking (e.g. interest/behaviour-based profiling, use of cookies); target group formation; marketing; profiles with user-related information (creation of user profiles). Conversion measurement (measurement of the effectiveness of marketing measures). 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(1)(f) GDPR).

      Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

      • Google Ads and conversion measurement: Online marketing procedure for the purpose of placing content and advertisements within the service provider's advertising network (e.g. in search results, in videos, on websites, etc.) so that they are displayed to users who are likely to be interested in the advertisements. In addition, we measure the conversion of the advertisements, i.e. whether users have taken the opportunity to interact with the advertisements and use the advertised offers (so-called conversions). However, we only receive anonymous information and no personal information about individual users; Service provider: Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland; Legal basis: Consent (Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://marketingplatform.google.com; Privacy policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Basis for third country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF); Further information: Types of processing and data processed: https://business.safety.google/adsservices/. Data processing conditions between controllers and standard contractual clauses for third country transfers of data: https://business.safety.google/adscontrollerterms.

      Presence on social networks (social media)

      We maintain an online presence on social networks and process user data in this context in order to communicate with users who are active there or to provide information about us.

      We would like to point out that user data may be processed outside the European Union. This may pose risks for users, as it could, 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 presumed to correspond to the interests of the users. correspond to the interests of the users. For this reason, cookies are usually stored on the users' computers, in which the usage behaviour and interests of the users are stored. In addition, data can also be stored in the usage profiles independently of the devices used by the users (especially 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 you to the privacy policies 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 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. If you still require assistance, please contact us.

      • Types of data processed: Contact details (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 length of stay, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions).
      • Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
      • Purposes of processing: Communication; Feedback (e.g. collecting feedback via online form). Public relations.
      • Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).

      Further information on processing procedures, methods and services:

      • Facebook pages: Profiles within the Facebook social network - The controller is jointly responsible with Meta Platforms Ireland Limited for the collection and transmission of data from visitors to our Facebook page (‘fan page’). This includes, in particular, information about user behaviour (e.g. content viewed or interacted with, actions performed) and device information (e.g. IP address, operating system, browser type, language settings, cookie data). Further details can be found in the Facebook Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy/. Facebook also uses this data to provide us with statistical analyses via the ‘Page Insights’ service, which provide information about how people interact with our page and its content. This is based on an agreement with Facebook (‘Information about Page Insights’: https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/page_controller_addendum), which regulates, among other things, security measures and the exercise of data subject rights. Further information can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/legal/terms/information_about_page_insights_data. Users can therefore address requests for information or deletion directly to Facebook. The rights of users (in particular information, deletion, objection, complaint to a supervisory authority) remain unaffected by this. Joint responsibility is limited exclusively to the collection of data by Meta Platforms Ireland Limited (EU). Meta Platforms Ireland Limited is solely responsible for further processing, including any transfer to 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 transfers to third countries: Data Privacy Framework (DPF), standard contractual clauses (https://www.facebook.com/legal/EU_data_transfer_addendum) .
      Privacy policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy; Basis for third country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF). Right to object (opt-out): https://myadcenter.google.com/personalizationoff.
    • Xing: Social network; Service provider: New Work SE, Am Strandkai 1, 20457 Hamburg, Germany; Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR); Website: https://www.xing.com/ . Privacy policy: https://privacy.xing.com/de/datenschutzerklaerung.

    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 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 browsers without the IP address. The IP address is therefore necessary 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 can also be stored in cookies on the user's device and may contain 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. about the browser and operating system, referring websites, visit time and other information about the use of our online offering, but can 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 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 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, 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; reach measurement (e.g. access statistics, recognition of returning visitors); tracking (e.g. interest/behaviour-based profiling, use of cookies); target group formation. Marketing.
    • Storage and deletion: strong> 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(1)(f) GDPR).

    Further information on processing operations, procedures and services:

    Processing of data in the context of employment relationships In the context of employment relationships, personal data is processed with the aim of effectively establishing, implementing and terminating such relationships. This data processing supports various operational and administrative functions that are necessary for the establishment, implementation and termination of such relationships. This data processing supports various operational and administrative functions that are necessary for the establishment, implementation and termination of such relationships. execution and termination of such relationships. This data processing supports various operational and administrative functions that are necessary for the management of employee relationships.

    Data processing covers various aspects, ranging from the initiation of a contract to its termination. This includes the organisation and administration of daily working hours, the management of access rights and authorisations, and the handling of personnel development measures and employee appraisals. The processing also serves the purpose of accounting and managing wage and salary payments, which are critical aspects of contract execution. p>

    In addition, data processing takes into account the legitimate interests of the responsible employer, such as ensuring safety in the workplace or recording performance data for the evaluation and optimisation of operational processes. Furthermore, data processing includes the disclosure of employee data in the context of external communication and publication processes, where this is necessary for operational or legal purposes.

    This data is always processed in compliance with the applicable legal framework, with the aim of creating and maintaining a fair and efficient working environment. This also includes taking into account the data protection of the employees concerned, anonymising or deleting data after the processing purpose has been fulfilled, or in accordance with statutory retention periods. the purpose of processing or in accordance with statutory retention periods.

    • Types of data processed: Employee data (information about employees and other persons in an employment relationship); payment data (e.g. bank details, invoices, payment history) ; Contract data (e.g. subject matter of the contract, term, customer category); 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 information on authorship or time of creation); social data (data subject to social secrecy and processed, for example, by social security institutions, social welfare institutions or pension authorities); log data (e.g. log files relating to logins or the retrieval of data or access times); Performance and behaviour data (e.g. performance and behaviour aspects such as performance reviews, feedback from superiors, training participation, compliance with company guidelines, self-assessments and behaviour assessments); Working time data (e.g. start of working time, end of working time, actual working time, target working time, break times, overtime, holidays, special leave, sick days, absences, home office days, business trips) Salary data (e.g. basic salary, bonus payments, premiums, tax class information, allowances for night work/overtime, tax deductions, social security contributions, net pay amount) Image and/or video recordings (e.g. photographs or video recordings of a person); usage data (e.g. page views and dwell time, click paths, usage intensity and frequency, device types and operating systems used, interactions with content and functions) . Meta, communication and procedural data (e.g. IP addresses, time stamps, identification numbers, persons involved).
    • Special categories of personal data: Health data; religious or ideological beliefs. Trade union membership.
    • Purposes of processing: Establishment and implementation of employment relationships (processing of employee data in the context of establishing and implementing employment relationships) ; business processes and business management procedures; security measures; provision of contractual services and fulfilment of contractual obligations; public relations. Office and organisational procedures. Legal bases: 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). Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR). Processing of special categories of personal data relating to health, employment and social security (Art. 9(2)(h) GDPR).

    Further information on processing procedures, processes and services:

    • Time recording: Procedures for recording employees' working hours include both manual and automated methods, such as the use of time clocks, time recording software or mobile apps. Activities such as entering arrival and departure times, break times, overtime and absences are carried out. Verification and validation of the recorded working hours include comparison with duty rosters or shift schedules , checking absences and approving overtime by supervisors. Reports and analyses are generated on the basis of the recorded working hours in order to provide timesheets, overtime reports and absence statistics for management and the human resources department. Legal basis: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).
    • Authorisation management: Procedures required for the definition, management and control of access rights and user roles within a system or organisation (e.g. creation of authorisation profiles, role- and access-based control, review and approval of access requests, regular regular review of access rights, tracking and auditing of user activities, creation of security policies and procedures); 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).
    • Special categories of personal data: Special categories of personal data are processed within the scope of the employment relationship or to fulfil legal obligations. The special categories of personal data processed include data relating to the health, trade union membership or religious affiliation of employees. This data may be passed on to health insurance companies, for example, or used to assess the working capacity of employees or for for occupational health management or for providing information to the tax office. Legal basis: performance of a contract and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR), legal obligation (Art. 6 (1) (c) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR). Sources of the processed data: Personal data obtained in the context of the application and/or employment relationship of the employees is processed. In addition, personal data from other sources is collected if required by law. These may include financial institutions for tax-related information, the respective health insurance company for information about incapacity to work, third parties such as employment agencies or for tax-related information, the respective health insurance company for information about incapacity to work, third parties such as employment agencies or publicly accessible sources such as professional social networks in the context of application procedures. Legal basis: Legal obligation (Art. 6(1)(c) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).
    • Video surveillance: The surveillance of employees serves to ensure the security of the company, the protection of property and the safety of employees. Various procedures and data processing steps are carried out for this purpose.
      First, surveillance cameras are installed and positioned after a location analysis to identify security-relevant areas. The cameras are then installed in suitable locations, and signs or warnings may be posted to indicate that surveillance is in operation. Regular checks are carried out to ensure that the cameras are working properly and that there are no failures that could compromise security. to ensure that the cameras are working properly and that there are no failures that could compromise security. The actual surveillance is carried out by making video recordings to capture and document potential security incidents. These recordings are then evaluated and analysed to determine whether any security breaches have occurred. of video recordings to record and document potential security incidents. These recordings are then evaluated and analysed to identify suspicious activities and respond appropriately. the statutory provisions and data protection guidelines. It should be noted that the data is deleted after a maximum of 96 hours, unless there is a specific case of suspicion that requires longer storage in order to clarify the facts or ensure the security of the company. , measures are implemented to delete data as soon as the retention periods have expired or the data is no longer required in order to comply with data protection guidelines and protect the privacy of employees. Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).
    • Purposes of data processing: Employees' personal data is primarily processed for the establishment, execution and termination of the employment relationship. In addition, the processing of this data is necessary to comply with legal obligations in the area of tax and social security law. . In addition to these primary purposes, employee data is also used to fulfil regulatory and supervisory requirements, to optimise electronic data processing processes and to compile internal or cross-company data, possibly including statistical data. Furthermore, employee data may be processed for the assertion of legal claims and for defence in legal disputes. 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).
    • Transfer of employee data: The data of the employees is only processed internally by those departments that need it to fulfil operational, contractual and legal obligations. Data is only passed on to external recipients if this is required by law or if the employees concerned have given their consent. Possible scenarios for this may include requests for information from authorities or in the case of capital formation benefits. Furthermore, the controller may forward personal data to other recipients to the extent necessary to fulfil its contractual and legal obligations as an employer. These recipients may include: a) Banks b) Health insurance funds, pension insurance institutions, pension providers and other social insurance providers c) Authorities, courts (e.g. tax authorities, labour courts, other supervisory authorities in the context of fulfilling reporting and information obligations) d) Tax and legal advisors e) third-party debtors in the event of wage and salary garnishments f) Other bodies to which legally binding declarations must be made. In addition, data may be passed on to third parties if this is necessary for necessary for communication with business partners, suppliers or other service providers. Examples of this include information in the sender field of emails or letterheads and the creation of profiles on external platforms. Legal basis: Contract performance and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR).
    • Transfer of employee data to third countries: The transfer of employee data to third countries, i.e. countries outside the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA), only takes place if this is necessary for the fulfilment of the employment relationship, is required by law or if employees have given their consent. Employees will be informed separately about the details, insofar as this is required by law. Legal basis: Legitimate interests (Art. 6 (1) (f) GDPR) .
    • Business trips and travel expense accounting: Procedures necessary for the planning, execution and accounting of business trips (e.g. booking travel, organising accommodation and transport, managing travel expense advances, submitting and reviewing travel expense reports, checking and posting incurred costs, complying with travel policies, handling travel expense management); 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).
    • Payroll accounting and wage accounting: Procedures required for the calculation, payment and documentation of wages, salaries and other employee remuneration (e.g. recording of working hours, calculation of deductions and allowances, payment of taxes and social security contributions, preparation of payroll statements, maintenance of payroll accounts, reporting to the tax office and social security institutions); Legal basis: Contract performance and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR), legal obligation (Art. 6(1)(c) GDPR) .
    • Deletion of employee data: Employee data is deleted in accordance with German law if it is no longer required for the purpose for which it was collected, unless it must retained or archived on the basis of legal obligations or the interests of the employer. The following storage and archiving obligations are observed in this regard:
      • General personnel documents - General personnel documents (such as employment contracts, employment references, supplementary agreements) are stored for up to three years after the end of the employment relationship (Section 195 of the German Civil Code (BGB)).
        Tax-relevant documents - Tax-relevant documents in the personnel file are retained for six years (Section 147 of the German Fiscal Code (AO), Section 257 of the German Commercial Code (HGB)). . Information about remuneration and working hours – Information about remuneration and working hours for (accident) insurance policyholders with proof of earnings is retained for five years (Section 165 I 1, IV 2 SGB VII) .
      • Wage lists for interim, final and special payments - Wage lists for interim, final and special payments are retained for six years (Section 147 AO, § 257 HGB).
      • Employee insurance documents - Employee insurance documents, provided that accounting documents are available, are retained for ten years (§ 147 AO, § 257 HGB).
      • Contribution statements for social security institutions - Contribution statements for social security institutions are retained for ten years (§ 165 SGB VII) .
        Payroll accounts - Payroll accounts are retained for six years (Section 41 I 9 EStG).
      • Applicant data - Retained for a maximum of six months from receipt of the rejection.
      • Application documents (after online job advertisement) - These are kept for three to a maximum of six months after receipt of the rejection (Section 26
      • Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG) as amended, Section 15 IV General Equal Treatment Act (AGG)).
      • Certificates of incapacity for work (AU) - Retained for up to five years (Section 6 I of the Expense Compensation Act (AAG)).
      • Documents relating to occupational pension schemes – These are retained for 30 years (Section 18a of the Occupational Pensions Improvement Act (BetrAVG)).
      • Employee sickness data – This is retained for twelve months after the onset of the illness if the absences do not exceed six weeks in a year.
      • Documents relating to maternity leave - Retained for two years (Section 27(5) MuSchG).
      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), Processing of special categories of personal data relating to health, employment and social security (Art. 9(2)(h) GDPR).
    • Personnel file management: Procedures necessary for the organisation, updating and management of employee data and records (e.g. recording of personnel master data, storage of employment contracts, references and certificates, updating of data in the event of changes, compilation of documents for for employee appraisals, archiving personnel files, compliance with data protection regulations); Legal bases: 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), processing of special categories of personal data relating to health, employment and social security (Art. 9(2)(h) GDPR).
    • Personnel development, performance evaluation and employee appraisals: Procedures necessary in the area of employee promotion and development, as well as for assessing their performance and in the context of employee appraisals (e.g. needs analysis for further training, planning and implementation of training measures, preparation of performance appraisals, conducting target agreement and feedback meetings, career planning and talent management, succession planning); Legal bases: Contract fulfilment and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR), legal obligation (Art. 6(1)(c) GDPR) , legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR), processing of special categories of personal data relating to health, employment and social security (Art. 9(2)(h) GDPR).
    • Obligation to provide data: The controller informs employees that the provision of their data is necessary. This is generally the case if the data is required for the establishment and performance of the employment relationship or if its collection is required by law. The provision of data may also be necessary if employees are required to provide data in order to establish and perform the employment relationship or if its collection is required by law. The provision of data may also be necessary if employees are required to provide data in order to establish and perform the employment relationship or if its collection is required by law. The provision of data may also be necessary if employees are required to provide data in order to establish and perform the employment relationship or if its collection is required by law. The provision of data may also be necessary if employees are required to provide data in order to establish and perform the employment relationship or if its collection is required by law. The provision of data may also be necessary if employees are required to provide data in order to establish and perform the employment relationship or if its collection is required by law. The provision of data may also be necessary if employees are required to provide data in order to establish and perform the employment relationship or if its collection is required by law. The provision of data may also be necessary if employees are required to provide data in order to establish and perform the employment relationship or if its collection is required The provision of data may also be necessary if employees assert claims or are entitled to claims. The implementation of these measures or the fulfilment of services is dependent on the provision of this data (e.g. the provision of data for the purpose of receiving wages); 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). Publication and disclosure of employee data: Employee data will only be published or disclosed to third parties if this is necessary for the performance of work tasks in accordance with the employment contract. This applies, for example, if employees are named as contact persons in correspondence, on the website or in public registers in accordance with an agreement or agreed job description, or if the job description includes representative functions. This may also be the case if, in the course of performing their duties, employees are presented or communicate with the public, such as in the case of photographs taken as part of public relations work. Otherwise, employee data will only be published with their consent or on the basis of the employer's legitimate interests, for example in the case of stage or group photos taken during a public event. Legal basis: Contract performance and pre-contractual enquiries (Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR), legitimate interests (Art. 6(1)(f) 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 the addresses may change over time and we ask you to check the information before contacting them.

    Definition of terms

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

    • 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 their work. The employment relationship comprises various phases, including the establishment, in which the employment contract is concluded, the implementation, in which the employee performs his or her work, and the termination, when the employment relationship ends. , during which the employee performs their work, and termination, when the employment relationship ends, whether through dismissal, termination 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). Master 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 in the course of creating, editing and publishing content of all kinds. 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 tools such as social media handles and instant messaging identifiers.
    • Conversion measurement: Conversion measurement (also known as ‘visit action evaluation’) is a method used to determine the effectiveness of marketing measures. To do this, a cookie is usually stored on the user's device within the websites where the marketing measures are carried out and then retrieved again on the target website. For example, this allows us to track whether the advertisements we place on other websites were successful.
    • Artificial intelligence (AI): The purpose of processing data using artificial intelligence (AI) includes the automated analysis and processing of user data to identify patterns, make predictions and improve the efficiency and quality of our services. This includes the collection, cleansing and structuring of data, the training and application of AI models, and the continuous review and optimisation of results, and is carried out exclusively with the consent of users or on the basis of legal permissions.
    • Performance and behavioural data: Performance and behavioural data refers to information related to how individuals perform tasks or behave in a particular context, such as in an educational, work or social environment. This data may include metrics such as productivity, efficiency, work quality, attendance, and compliance with policies or procedures. Behavioural data may include interactions with colleagues, communication styles, decision-making processes, and responses to various situations. These types of data are often used for performance evaluations, training and development initiatives, and decision-making within organisations.
    • Meta, communication and procedural data: Meta, communication and procedural 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 about file size, creation date, document author, and change histories. 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 people involved, timestamps and transmission routes. Procedural 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 events.
    • 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 the paths they take 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 ‘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. cookie) or to one or more special characteristics that express 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’, 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 various 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 timestamps, 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, monitor security or create performance reports.
    • Reach measurement: Reach measurement (also known as web analytics) is used to evaluate visitor traffic 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. For the purposes of reach analysis, pseudonymous cookies and web beacons are often used to recognise returning visitors and thus obtain more accurate analyses of the use of an online service.
    • Tracking: ‘Tracking’ refers to the tracking of user behaviour across multiple online services. As a rule, information about behaviour and interests is stored in cookies or on the servers of the providers of tracking technologies (so-called profiling) with regard to the online offerings used. 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 which is 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 management 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. They serve as the legal basis for the relationship between the parties and are crucial for clarifying rights and obligations, enforcing claims and resolving disputes.
    • 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 (known as ‘custom audiences’) refers to the determination of target groups for advertising purposes, e.g. the display of 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 that is considered suitable is displayed to users whose profiles or interests are likely 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.
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