Our Privacy Policy

0. Introduction

Using the websites of Bitterlin & Partner INDUSOLUTIONS is generally possible without providing any personal data. However, if a data subject wishes to use certain special services offered by our company via our website, the processing of personal data may become necessary. If the processing of personal data is required and there is no legal basis for such processing, we generally obtain the consent of the data subject.

The processing of personal data, such as the name, address, email address, or telephone number of a data subject, is always carried out in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and in compliance with the country-specific data protection regulations applicable to Bitterlin & Partner INDUSOLUTIONS. Through this privacy policy, our company aims to inform the public about the type, scope, and purpose of the personal data we collect, use, and process. Furthermore, this privacy policy informs data subjects about their rights.

As the entity responsible for processing, Bitterlin & Partner INDUSOLUTIONS has implemented numerous technical and organizational measures to ensure the most complete protection possible of the personal data processed via this website. Nevertheless, internet-based data transmissions can generally have security vulnerabilities, so absolute protection cannot be guaranteed. For this reason, every data subject is free to transmit personal data to us via alternative means, for example by telephone.

1. Definitions

The privacy policy of Bitterlin & Partner INDUSOLUTIONS is based on the terms used by the European legislator when enacting the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Our privacy policy is intended to be easily readable and understandable for both the public and our customers and business partners. To ensure this, we would like to first explain the terminology used.

In this privacy policy, we use the following terms, among others:

• a) Personal data

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

• b) Data subject

  A data subject is any identified or identifiable natural person whose personal data is processed by the controller.

• c) Processing

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

• d) Restriction of processing

  Restriction of processing is the marking of stored personal data with the aim of limiting their future processing.

• e) Profiling

  Profiling means any form of automated processing of personal data consisting of the use of personal data to evaluate certain personal aspects relating to a natural person, in particular to analyze or predict aspects concerning that person’s work performance, economic situation, health, personal preferences, interests, reliability, behavior, location, or movements.

• f) Pseudonymization

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

• g) Controller

  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. Where the purposes and means of such processing are determined by Union or Member State law, the controller or the specific criteria for its nomination may be provided for by Union or Member State law.

• h) Processor

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

• i) Recipient

  A recipient is a natural or legal person, public authority, agency, or another body to which personal data are disclosed, whether a third party or not. However, public authorities that may receive personal data in the framework of a specific inquiry under Union or Member State law are not considered recipients.

• j) Third party

  A third party is a natural or legal person, public authority, agency, or body other than the data subject, the controller, the processor, and the persons who, under the direct authority of the controller or processor, are authorized to process personal data.

• k) Consent

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

2. Name and Address of the Controller

The controller within the meaning of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), other data protection laws applicable in the Member States of the European Union, and other provisions with a data protection character is:

Bitterlin & Partner INDUSOLUTIONS

Niederhofgasse 61
4467 Rothenfluh
Switzerland

Tel.: +41 79 329 86 35
E-Mail: l.bitterlin@bitterlin-indusolutions.com
Website: https://bitterlin-indusolutions.com

3. Cookies

The websites of Bitterlin & Partner INDUSOLUTIONS use cookies. Cookies are text files that are stored on a computer system via an internet browser.

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

By using cookies, Bitterlin & Partner INDUSOLUTIONS can provide users of this website with more user-friendly services that would not be possible without setting cookies.

Cookies allow us to optimize the information and offerings on our website for the user. As mentioned, cookies enable us to recognize users of our website. The purpose of this recognition is to make the use of our website easier for users. For example, a user of a website that uses cookies does not need to re-enter their login information every time they visit the site because it is stored by the website and the cookie on the user’s computer system. Another example is a shopping cart cookie in an online shop. The online shop remembers the items a customer has placed in the virtual cart through a cookie.

The data subject can prevent the setting of cookies by our website at any time by adjusting the settings of the internet browser used and thereby object to the setting of cookies permanently. Furthermore, cookies that have already been set can be deleted at any time via an internet browser or other software programs. This is possible in all common internet browsers. If the data subject disables the setting of cookies in the browser used, not all functions of our website may be fully usable.

To manage the cookies and similar technologies (tracking pixels, web beacons, etc.) used and the related consents, we use the consent tool “Real Cookie Banner.” Details on the functionality of “Real Cookie Banner” can be found at https://devowl.io/rcb/data-processing/.

4. Collection of General Data and Information

Each time the website of Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions is accessed by a data subject or an automated system, a range of general data and information is collected. This general data and information is stored in the server’s log files. The following data may be collected:

1. the types and versions of browsers used,
2. the operating system used by the accessing system,
3. the website from which an accessing system reaches our website (so-called referrer),
4. the subpages that are accessed on our website via an accessing system,
5. the date and time of access to the website,
6. an Internet Protocol address (IP address),
7. the Internet service provider of the accessing system, and
8. other similar data and information that serve to prevent risks in the event of attacks on our information technology systems.

When using this general data and information, Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions does not draw any conclusions about the data subject. Rather, this information is needed to:

1. deliver the content of our website correctly,
2. optimize the content of our website and its advertising,
3. ensure the permanent functionality of our information technology systems and the technology of our website, and
4. provide law enforcement authorities with the information necessary for prosecution in the event of a cyberattack.

These anonymously collected data and information are therefore evaluated by Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions both statistically and with the aim of increasing data protection and data security within our company, ultimately ensuring an optimal level of protection for the personal data we process. The anonymous data from the server log files is stored separately from any personal data provided by a data subject.

5. Registration on Our Website

The data subject has the option to register on the website of the data controller by providing personal data. Which personal data is transmitted to the data controller is determined by the input form used for the registration. The personal data entered by the data subject is collected and stored exclusively for internal use by the data controller and for its own purposes. The data controller may arrange for the transfer of this data to one or more processors, such as a parcel delivery service, who also use the personal data exclusively for internal purposes attributable to the data controller.

By registering on the data controller’s website, the IP address assigned by the Internet Service Provider (ISP) of the data subject, as well as the date and time of registration, are also stored. The storage of this data is necessary to prevent misuse of our services and to enable the clarification of any criminal acts if needed. Therefore, the storage of this data is required to protect the data controller. This data is generally not passed on to third parties unless there is a legal obligation to do so or the data is needed for law enforcement purposes.

The voluntary registration of the data subject by providing personal data allows the data controller to offer content or services that, by their nature, can only be offered to registered users. Registered users have the right to modify or completely delete the personal data provided during registration at any time from the data controller’s records.

The data controller provides the data subject, upon request, with information about which personal data is stored about them. Furthermore, the data controller corrects or deletes personal data upon the request or notification of the data subject, provided that no legal retention obligations prevent this. The data controller’s entire staff is available as a point of contact for the data subject in this context.

6. Subscription to Our Newsletter

On the website of Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions, users have the option to subscribe to the company’s newsletter. Which personal data is transmitted to the data controller when subscribing is determined by the input form used for this purpose.

Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions regularly informs its customers and business partners via a newsletter about the company’s offers. The newsletter can generally only be received by the data subject if (1) the data subject has a valid email address and (2) the data subject registers for the newsletter. For legal reasons, a confirmation email using the double opt-in process is sent to the email address provided by the data subject during the initial registration. This confirmation email verifies that the owner of the email address has authorized the receipt of the newsletter.

When registering for the newsletter, we also store the IP address assigned by the Internet Service Provider (ISP) of the computer system used by the data subject at the time of registration, as well as the date and time of registration. The collection of this data is necessary to track any potential misuse of a data subject’s email address and serves to legally protect the data controller.

The personal data collected during newsletter registration is used exclusively for sending the newsletter. Subscribers may also be informed by email if required for the operation of the newsletter service or for matters related to registration, such as changes to the newsletter content or technical adjustments. No personal data collected through the newsletter service is shared with third parties. The subscription to the newsletter can be canceled by the data subject at any time. Consent to the storage of personal data provided for newsletter delivery can be revoked at any time. Each newsletter contains a link for this purpose. Additionally, it is possible to unsubscribe directly on the data controller’s website or notify the data controller in another manner.

7. Newsletter Tracking

The newsletters from Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions contain so-called tracking pixels. A tracking pixel is a tiny graphic embedded in emails sent in HTML format to enable log file recording and analysis. This allows for statistical evaluation of the success or failure of online marketing campaigns. Using the embedded tracking pixel, Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions can determine whether and when an email was opened by a data subject and which links within the email were clicked.

Personal data collected via the tracking pixels in the newsletters are stored and analyzed by the data controller to optimize newsletter delivery and better tailor the content of future newsletters to the interests of the data subject. This personal data is not shared with third parties. Data subjects have the right to revoke their consent, which was given separately through the double opt-in process, at any time. After revocation, this personal data is deleted by the data controller. Unsubscribing from the newsletter is automatically considered by Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions as a revocation of consent.

8. Contact via the Website

The website of Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions contains information required by law that enables rapid electronic contact with our company and direct communication with us, including a general electronic mail address (email address). If a data subject contacts the data controller via email or through a contact form, the personal data submitted by the data subject are automatically stored. Such personal data, voluntarily provided by the data subject to the data controller, are stored for the purpose of processing or contacting the data subject. There is no transfer of this personal data to third parties.

9. Comment Function on the Website Blog

Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions provides users on a blog hosted on the data controller’s website the ability to leave individual comments on specific blog posts. A blog is typically a publicly accessible portal on a website where one or more persons, called bloggers or web-bloggers, can post articles or thoughts in so-called blog posts. These blog posts can generally be commented on by third parties.

If a data subject leaves a comment on the blog published on this website, the comments, the timestamp of the comment, and the username (pseudonym) chosen by the data subject are stored and published. Furthermore, the IP address assigned to the data subject by their Internet Service Provider (ISP) is logged. This storage of the IP address is done for security reasons and in the event that the data subject, through a comment, infringes the rights of third parties or posts illegal content. The storage of this personal data is therefore in the legitimate interest of the data controller, to potentially defend themselves in the case of a legal infringement. There is no transfer of this collected personal data to third parties unless such a transfer is legally required or serves the legal defense of the data controller.

10. Subscription to Comments on the Website Blog

Comments posted on the Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions blog can generally be subscribed to by third parties. In particular, there is the option for a commenter to subscribe to the comments that follow their own comment on a specific blog post.

If a data subject chooses the option to subscribe to comments, the data controller sends an automatic confirmation email to verify via the double-opt-in process that the owner of the provided email address has indeed opted for this option. The option to subscribe to comments can be terminated at any time.

11. Routine Deletion and Blocking of Personal Data

The data controller processes and stores the personal data of the data subject only for the period necessary to achieve the storage purpose, or insofar as this has been provided for by the European legislator or another legislator in laws or regulations to which the data controller is subject.

If the storage purpose no longer applies or a storage period prescribed by the European legislator or another competent legislator expires, the personal data are routinely blocked or deleted in accordance with legal requirements.

12. Rights of the Data Subject

• a) Right to Confirmation

  Every data subject has the right granted by the European legislator to obtain from the data controller confirmation as to whether personal data concerning them is being processed. If a data subject wishes to exercise this right of confirmation, they can contact any employee of the data controller at any time.

• b) Right of Access

  Every data subject whose personal data is processed has the right granted by the European legislator to obtain from the data controller free information at any time about the personal data stored concerning them and a copy of this information. Furthermore, the European legislator has granted the data subject the right to obtain the following information:

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

  Furthermore, the data subject has the right to obtain information on whether personal data have been transferred to a third country or to an international organization. If this is the case, the data subject also has the right to be informed about the appropriate safeguards related to the transfer.

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

• c) Right to Rectification

  Every data subject whose personal data is processed has the right granted by the European legislator to demand the immediate correction of incorrect personal data concerning them. Furthermore, the data subject has the right, taking into account the purposes of processing, to demand the completion of incomplete personal data — including by means of a supplementary statement.

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

• d) Right to Erasure (Right to be Forgotten)

  Every data subject whose personal data is processed has the right granted by the European legislator to request that the data controller delete personal data concerning them without undue delay, provided one of the following reasons applies and processing is not required:

  • The personal data were collected or otherwise processed for purposes for which they are no longer necessary.
  • The data subject withdraws consent on which the processing is based pursuant to Art. 6(1)(a) or Art. 9(2)(a) GDPR, and there is no other legal ground for the processing.
  • The data subject objects pursuant to Art. 21(1) GDPR to the processing, and there are no overriding legitimate grounds for the processing, or the data subject objects pursuant to Art. 21(2) GDPR to the processing.
  • The personal data have been unlawfully processed.
  • The deletion of personal data is required to fulfill a legal obligation under EU law or the law of the Member States to which the controller is subject.
  • The personal data have been collected in relation to the offer of information society services pursuant to Art. 8(1) GDPR.

  If one of the above reasons applies and a data subject wishes to request the deletion of personal data stored by Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions, they can contact any employee of the data controller at any time. The employee of Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions will ensure that the deletion request is promptly carried out.

  If the personal data have been made public by Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions and our company, as the controller, is obliged under Art. 17(1) GDPR to erase the personal data, Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions will, taking into account available technology and implementation costs, take appropriate measures, including technical measures, to inform other controllers processing the published personal data that the data subject has requested the deletion of all links to these personal data or copies or replications of these personal data, insofar as the processing is not required. The employee of Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions will initiate the necessary actions on a case-by-case basis.

• e) Right to Restriction of Processing

  Every data subject whose personal data is processed has the right granted by the European legislator to request the restriction of processing by the controller if one of the following conditions is met:

  • The accuracy of the personal data is contested by the data subject, for a period allowing the controller to verify the accuracy of the personal data.
  • The processing is unlawful, the data subject opposes the erasure of the personal data, and requests instead the restriction of their use.
  • The controller no longer needs the personal data for the purposes of processing, but the data subject requires them for the establishment, exercise, or defense of legal claims.
  • The data subject has objected pursuant to Art. 21(1) GDPR, and it is not yet clear whether the legitimate grounds of the controller override those of the data subject.

  If one of the above conditions is met and a data subject wishes to request the restriction of personal data stored by Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions, they can contact any employee of the data controller at any time. The employee of Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions will arrange for the restriction of processing.

• f) Right to Data Portability

  Every data subject whose personal data is processed has the right granted by the European legislator to receive the personal data concerning them, which they have provided to a controller, in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format. They also have the right to transmit these data to another controller without hindrance from the controller to whom the personal data were provided, provided the processing is based on consent pursuant to Art. 6(1)(a) or Art. 9(2)(a) GDPR or on a contract pursuant to Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR, and the processing is carried out by automated means, unless processing is necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest or in the exercise of official authority vested in the controller.

  Furthermore, when exercising their right to data portability pursuant to Art. 20(1) GDPR, the data subject has the right to have personal data transmitted directly from one controller to another, insofar as this is technically feasible and provided it does not adversely affect the rights and freedoms of others.

  To exercise the right to data portability, the data subject can contact any employee of Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions at any time.

• g) Right to Object

  Every data subject whose personal data is processed has the right granted by the European legislator to object at any time, on grounds relating to their particular situation, to the processing of personal data concerning them which is based on Art. 6(1)(e) or (f) GDPR. This also applies to profiling based on these provisions.

  Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions will no longer process the personal data in the event of an objection, unless we can demonstrate compelling legitimate grounds for the processing that override the interests, rights, and freedoms of the data subject, or the processing serves the establishment, exercise, or defense of legal claims.

  If Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions processes personal data for direct marketing purposes, the data subject has the right to object at any time to the processing of personal data for such marketing. This also applies to profiling insofar as it is related to such direct marketing. If the data subject objects to the processing for direct marketing purposes, Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions will no longer process the personal data for these purposes.

  Furthermore, the data subject has the right to object, for reasons related to their particular situation, to the processing of personal data concerning them for scientific or historical research purposes or for statistical purposes pursuant to Art. 89(1) GDPR, unless the processing is necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest.

  To exercise the right to object, the data subject may contact any employee of Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions directly. The data subject is also free, in connection with the use of information society services, regardless of Directive 2002/58/EC, to exercise their right to object through automated procedures using technical specifications.

• h) Automated Individual Decisions Including Profiling

  Every data subject whose personal data is processed has the right granted by the European legislator not to be subject to a decision based solely on automated processing — including profiling — which produces legal effects concerning them or similarly significantly affects them, unless the decision (1) is necessary for entering into or performing a contract between the data subject and the controller, or (2) is authorized by Union or Member State law to which the controller is subject and which contains suitable measures to safeguard the data subject’s rights and freedoms and legitimate interests, or (3) is based on the explicit consent of the data subject.

  If the decision (1) is necessary for entering into or performing a contract between the data subject and the controller, or (2) is based on the explicit consent of the data subject, Bitterlin & Partner Indusolutions will implement appropriate measures to safeguard the data subject’s rights and freedoms as well as legitimate interests, which include at least the right to obtain intervention by a person from the controller, to express their point of view, and to contest the decision.

  If a data subject wishes to exercise rights related to automated decisions, they can contact any employee of the data controller at any time.

• i) Right to Withdraw Consent

  Every data subject whose personal data is processed has the right granted by the European legislator to withdraw consent to the processing of personal data at any time.

  If a data subject wishes to exercise their right to withdraw consent, they can contact any employee of the data controller at any time.

13. Data Protection in Job Applications and the Application Process

The data controller collects and processes the personal data of applicants for the purpose of handling the application process. Processing may also occur electronically. This is particularly the case if an applicant submits corresponding application documents electronically, for example via email or through a web form on the website, to the data controller. If the data controller concludes an employment contract with an applicant, the submitted data will be stored for the purpose of managing the employment relationship in compliance with legal requirements. If the data controller does not conclude an employment contract with the applicant, the application documents will be automatically deleted two months after the notification of the rejection decision, unless there are other legitimate interests of the data controller that prevent deletion. Other legitimate interests in this context include, for example, a duty to provide evidence in proceedings under the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG).

14. Data Protection Provisions on the Use of Facebook

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

A social network is an online social meeting place, a virtual community that generally allows users to communicate with each other and interact in the virtual space. A social network can serve as a platform for exchanging opinions and experiences or enable the online community to provide personal or business-related information. Facebook allows users of the social network, among other things, to create private profiles, upload photos, and connect through friend requests.

The operating company of Facebook is Facebook, Inc., 1 Hacker Way, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA. For data protection purposes, if a data subject resides outside the USA or Canada, the data controller responsible is Facebook Ireland Ltd., 4 Grand Canal Square, Grand Canal Harbour, Dublin 2, Ireland.

Every time a single page of this website, operated by the data controller, is accessed and contains a Facebook component (Facebook Plug-In), the Internet browser on the data subject’s information technology system is automatically instructed by the respective Facebook component to download a representation of the corresponding Facebook component from Facebook. An overview of all Facebook plug-ins can be found at https://developers.facebook.com/docs/plugins/?locale=de_DE. Within this technical process, Facebook becomes aware of which specific subpage of our website is visited by the data subject.

If the data subject is simultaneously logged into Facebook, Facebook recognizes, with each visit to our website by the data subject and during the entire duration of the visit, which specific subpage of our website the data subject accesses. This information is collected by the Facebook component and assigned by Facebook to the data subject’s respective Facebook account. If the data subject clicks one of the Facebook buttons integrated on our website, such as the “Like” button, or leaves a comment, Facebook assigns this information to the data subject’s personal Facebook user account and stores this personal data.

Facebook always receives information through the Facebook component that the data subject has visited our website if the data subject is logged into Facebook at the time of the visit; this occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on the Facebook component or not. If the data subject does not wish to transmit this information to Facebook, they can prevent the transmission by logging out of their Facebook account before accessing our website.

The data policy published by Facebook, available at https://de-de.facebook.com/about/privacy/, provides information about the collection, processing, and use of personal data by Facebook. It also explains the privacy settings that Facebook offers to protect the data subject. Furthermore, there are various applications available that allow the data subject to prevent data transmission to Facebook. Such applications can be used by the data subject to block the transmission of data to Facebook.

15. Data Protection Provisions on the Use of Google Analytics (with Anonymization Function)

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

The operating company of the Google Analytics component is Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin, D04 E5W5, Ireland.

The data controller uses the “_gat._anonymizeIp” extension for web analytics via Google Analytics. This extension shortens and anonymizes the IP address of the data subject’s internet connection when accessing our website from a member state of the European Union or another contracting state of the European Economic Area.

The purpose of the Google Analytics component is to analyze visitor traffic on our website. Google uses the collected data and information, among other things, to evaluate the use of our website, to compile online reports for us showing activities on our website, and to provide other services related to the use of our website.

Google Analytics places a cookie on the data subject’s information technology system. Cookies have already been explained above. By setting the cookie, Google is enabled to analyze the use of our website. Each time a page of this website operated by the data controller and containing a Google Analytics component is accessed, the Internet browser on the data subject’s information technology system is automatically instructed by the Google Analytics component to transmit data for the purpose of online analysis to Google. In this technical process, Google becomes aware of personal data such as the data subject’s IP address, which Google uses, among other things, to trace the origin of visitors and clicks and subsequently to enable commission accounting.

The cookie stores personal information, such as the access time, the location from which access originated, and the frequency of visits to our website by the data subject. On each visit to our website, this personal data, including the IP address of the internet connection used by the data subject, is transmitted to Google in the United States of America. This personal data is stored by Google in the United States. Google may, under certain circumstances, pass this personal data collected via the technical procedure on to third parties. The data subject can prevent the setting of cookies by our website, as explained above, at any time by adjusting the settings of the browser used and thereby permanently object to the setting of cookies. Such a browser setting would also prevent Google from setting a cookie on the data subject’s information technology system. Furthermore, a cookie already set by Google Analytics can be deleted at any time via the browser or other software programs.

Additionally, the data subject has the option to object to the collection of data generated by Google Analytics relating to the use of this website and to the processing of this data by Google and to prevent such collection. For this purpose, the data subject must download and install a browser add-on from the link https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout. This browser add-on informs Google Analytics via JavaScript that no data and information about visits to websites may be transmitted to Google Analytics. Installation of the browser add-on is considered by Google as an objection. If the data subject’s information technology system is deleted, formatted, or reinstalled at a later time, the browser add-on must be reinstalled by the data subject to deactivate Google Analytics. If the browser add-on is uninstalled or deactivated by the data subject or another person within their control, it can be reinstalled or reactivated.

Further information and the applicable Google privacy policies can be accessed at https://www.google.de/intl/de/policies/privacy/ and at http://www.google.com/analytics/terms/de.html. Google Analytics is explained in more detail at this link: https://www.google.com/intl/de_de/analytics/.

16. Data Protection Provisions on the Use of YouTube

The data controller has integrated components from YouTube on this website. YouTube is an online video platform that allows video publishers to upload video clips free of charge and enables other users to view, rate, and comment on these videos, also free of charge. YouTube permits the publication of all types of videos, so both full-length film and television programs, as well as music videos, trailers, or videos created by users themselves, can be accessed via the portal.

The operating company of YouTube is Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin, D04 E5W5, Ireland.

Each time a page of this website operated by the data controller and containing a YouTube component (YouTube video) is accessed, the Internet browser on the data subject’s information technology system is automatically instructed by the YouTube component to download a display of the corresponding YouTube component from YouTube. Further information about YouTube can be accessed at https://www.youtube.com/yt/about/de/. In the context of this technical process, YouTube and Google become aware of which specific subpage of our website the data subject visits.

If the data subject is simultaneously logged in to YouTube, YouTube recognizes, upon accessing a subpage containing a YouTube video, which specific subpage of our website the data subject visits. This information is collected by YouTube and Google and assigned to the respective YouTube account of the data subject.

YouTube and Google receive information via the YouTube component whenever the data subject visits our website while being logged into YouTube at the time of access; this occurs regardless of whether the data subject clicks on a YouTube video or not. If the data subject does not wish for such information to be transmitted to YouTube and Google, this transmission can be prevented by logging out of their YouTube account before accessing our website.

The privacy policy published by YouTube, available at https://www.google.de/intl/de/policies/privacy/, provides information on the collection, processing, and use of personal data by YouTube and Google.

17. Payment Method: Data Protection Provisions for PayPal as a Payment Method

The data controller has integrated components from PayPal on this website. PayPal is an online payment service provider. Payments are processed via so-called PayPal accounts, which represent virtual personal or business accounts. Additionally, PayPal allows virtual payments via credit cards if a user does not maintain a PayPal account. A PayPal account is managed through an email address, so there is no traditional account number. PayPal enables online payments to third parties or the receipt of payments. PayPal also performs trustee functions and offers buyer protection services.

The European operating company of PayPal is PayPal (Europe) S.à.r.l. et Cie, S.C.A., 22-24 Boulevard Royal L-2449, Luxembourg.

If the data subject selects “PayPal” as the payment method during the ordering process in our online shop, data of the data subject are automatically transmitted to PayPal. By selecting this payment option, the data subject consents to the transfer of personal data necessary for payment processing.

The personal data transmitted to PayPal generally include first name, last name, address, email address, IP address, telephone number, mobile phone number, or other data necessary for payment processing. Personal data necessary for the execution of the purchase contract, which are related to the respective order, are also transmitted.

The purpose of transmitting this data is payment processing and fraud prevention. The data controller will transmit personal data to PayPal in particular when there is a legitimate interest in doing so. The personal data exchanged between PayPal and the data controller may be transmitted by PayPal to credit reporting agencies. This transmission serves the purpose of identity and creditworthiness verification.

PayPal may also transmit personal data to affiliated companies and service providers or subcontractors, insofar as this is necessary to fulfill contractual obligations or the data are to be processed on behalf of PayPal.

The data subject has the option to revoke consent to the handling of personal data at any time directly with PayPal. A revocation does not affect personal data that must necessarily be processed, used, or transmitted for the (contractual) execution of payment.

The applicable privacy policy of PayPal can be accessed at https://www.paypal.com/de/webapps/mpp/ua/privacy-full.

18. Payment Method: Data Protection Provisions for Sofortüberweisung as a Payment Method

The data controller has integrated components from Sofortüberweisung on this website. Sofortüberweisung is a payment service that enables cashless payment for products and services over the Internet. Sofortüberweisung implements a technical process through which the online merchant receives immediate payment confirmation. This enables the merchant to deliver goods, services, or downloads to the customer immediately after the order.

The operating company of Sofortüberweisung is Klarna Bank AB, Sveavägen 46, 111 34 Stockholm, Sweden.

If the data subject selects “Sofortüberweisung” as the payment method during the ordering process in our online shop, data of the data subject are automatically transmitted to Sofortüberweisung. By selecting this payment option, the data subject consents to the transfer of personal data necessary for payment processing.

During the purchase process via Sofortüberweisung, the buyer transmits the PIN and TAN to Sofort GmbH. Sofortüberweisung then performs a transfer to the online merchant after technically verifying the account balance and retrieving additional data to check account coverage. The completion of the financial transaction is then automatically communicated to the online merchant.

The personal data exchanged with Sofortüberweisung include first name, last name, address, email address, IP address, telephone number, mobile phone number, or other data necessary for payment processing. The transfer of these data serves payment processing and fraud prevention. The data controller will also transmit other personal data to Sofortüberweisung if there is a legitimate interest in doing so. The personal data exchanged between Sofortüberweisung and the data controller may be transmitted by Sofortüberweisung to credit reporting agencies. This transmission serves the purpose of identity and creditworthiness verification.

Sofortüberweisung may transmit personal data to affiliated companies and service providers or subcontractors, insofar as this is necessary to fulfill contractual obligations or the data are to be processed on behalf of Sofortüberweisung.

The data subject has the option to revoke consent to the handling of personal data at any time directly with Sofortüberweisung. A revocation does not affect personal data that must necessarily be processed, used, or transmitted for the (contractual) execution of payment.

The applicable privacy policy of Sofortüberweisung can be accessed at https://www.klarna.com/sofort/datenschutz/.

19. Data Protection Regarding the Use of WooCommerce

WooCommerce enables the integration of an e-commerce shop system, allowing users to purchase products on a website. This requires the processing of the user’s IP address and metadata. Cookies or cookie-like technologies may be stored and read. These can contain personal data and technical data such as account information, review data, user ID, the user’s shopping cart in the website’s database, recently viewed products, and abandonment indicators. These data may be used to track the download process for downloadable products. WooCommerce can personalize the shopping experience, for example, by displaying previously viewed products again. The legitimate interest in using this service is to offer goods and products in a digital environment.

20. Legal Basis for Processing

Article 6(1)(a) of the GDPR serves as the legal basis for our company for processing operations for which we obtain consent for a specific processing purpose. If the processing of personal data is necessary for the performance of a contract to which the data subject is a party, such as processing operations required for the delivery of goods or the provision of other services or consideration, the processing is based on Article 6(1)(b) of the GDPR. The same applies to processing operations necessary for the performance of pre-contractual measures, for example, in cases of inquiries about our products or services. If our company is subject to a legal obligation that requires the processing of personal data, such as to fulfill tax obligations, the processing is based on Article 6(1)(c) of the GDPR. In rare cases, the processing of personal data may be necessary to protect the vital interests of the data subject or another natural person. This would be the case, for example, if a visitor were injured in our company and their name, age, health insurance data, or other vital information had to be passed on to a doctor, hospital, or other third parties. In such cases, the processing would be based on Article 6(1)(d) of the GDPR. Finally, processing operations may also be based on Article 6(1)(f) of the GDPR. This legal basis applies to processing operations that are not covered by any of the aforementioned legal bases, when the processing is necessary to safeguard a legitimate interest of our company or a third party, provided that the interests, fundamental rights, and freedoms of the data subject do not override such interest. Such processing operations are permitted in particular because they are explicitly mentioned by the European legislator, who considered that a legitimate interest may exist if the data subject is a customer of the controller (Recital 47, sentence 2 GDPR).

processing of personal data is based on Article 6(1)(f) of the GDPR, our legitimate interest is the conduct of our business operations for the benefit of the well-being of all our employees and our shareholders.

22. Duration for Which Personal Data Will Be Stored

The criterion for the duration of the storage of personal data is the respective statutory retention period. After the expiration of this period, the corresponding data will be routinely deleted, provided it is no longer required for the fulfillment or initiation of a contract.

23. Legal or Contractual Requirements for Providing Personal Data; Necessity for Contract Conclusion; Obligation of the Data Subject to Provide Personal Data; Possible Consequences of Non-Provision

We inform you that the provision of personal data is partly required by law (e.g., tax regulations) or may arise from contractual provisions (e.g., information about the contracting party). In some cases, it may be necessary for the conclusion of a contract that a data subject provides us with personal data, which will then be processed by us. For example, the data subject is obliged to provide us with personal data if our company enters into a contract with them. Failure to provide the personal data would result in the contract not being concluded with the data subject. Before providing personal data, the data subject must contact one of our employees. Our employee will clarify on a case-by-case basis whether the provision of personal data is legally or contractually required, necessary for the conclusion of the contract, whether there is an obligation to provide the personal data, and what the consequences of not providing the personal data would be.

24. Existence of Automated Decision-Making

As a responsible company, we refrain from automated decision-making or profiling.

This privacy policy was created using the privacy policy generator of DGD Deutsche Gesellschaft für Datenschutz GmbH, which acts as an External Data Protection Officer Hof, in cooperation with data protection lawyer Christian Solmecke.