Preamble
With the following privacy policy we would like to inform you which types of your personal data (hereinafter also abbreviated as “data”) we process for which purposes and in which scope. The privacy statement 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 services”).
The terms used are not gender-specific.
Last Update: 14. October 2026

Table of contents
Controller
S.F. Components GmbH
Kirchbergstr. 14b
82216 Maisach
Germany
Authorised Representatives: Bernd Swoboda (Managing Director)
E-mail address: info@sf-components.com
Phone: +49 8141 35354-0
Legal Notice: https://sf-components.com/en/legal-notice/
Overview of processing operations
The following table summarises the types of data processed, the purposes for which they are processed and the concerned data subjects.
Categories of Processed Data
- Inventory data.
- Payment Data.
- Contact data.
- Content data.
- Contract data.
- Usage data.
- Meta, communication and process data.
- Job applicant details.
- Log data.
Categories of Data Subjects
- Service recipients and clients.
- Prospective customers.
- Communication partner.
- Users.
- Job applicants.
- Business and contractual partners.
Purposes of Processing
- Provision of contractual services and fulfillment of contractual obligations.
- Communication.
- Security measures.
- Office and organisational procedures.
- Organisational and Administrative Procedures.
- Job Application Process.
- Feedback.
- Provision of our online services and usability.
- Information technology infrastructure.
- Public relations.
- Business processes and management procedures.
Relevant legal bases
Relevant legal bases according to the GDPR: In the following, you will find an overview of the legal basis of the GDPR on which we base the processing of personal data. Please note that in addition to the provisions of the GDPR, national data protection provisions of your or our country of residence or domicile may apply. If, in addition, more specific legal bases are applicable in individual cases, we will inform you of these in the data protection declaration.
- Consent (Article 6 (1) (a) GDPR) – The data subject has given consent to the processing of his or her personal data for one or more specific purposes.
- Performance of a contract and prior requests (Article 6 (1) (b) GDPR) – 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.
- Compliance with a legal obligation (Article 6 (1) (c) GDPR) – Processing is necessary for compliance with a legal obligation to which the controller is subject.
- Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR) – the processing is necessary for the protection of the legitimate interests of the controller or a third party, provided that the interests, fundamental rights, and freedoms of the data subject, which require the protection of personal data, do not prevail.
- Job application process as a pre-contractual or contractual relationship (Article 6 (1) (b) GDPR) – If special categories of personal data within the meaning of Article 9 (1) GDPR (e.g. health data, such as severely handicapped status or ethnic origin) are requested from applicants within the framework of the application procedure, so that the responsible person or the person concerned can carry out the obligations and exercising specific rights of the controller or of the data subject in the field of employment and social security and social protection law, their processing shall be carried out in accordance with Article 9 (2)(b) GDPR , in the case of the protection of vital interests of applicants or other persons on the basis of Article 9 (2)(c) GDPR or for the purposes of preventive health care or occupational medicine, for the assessment of the employee’s ability to work, for medical diagnostics, care or treatment in the health or social sector or for the administration of systems and services in the health or social sector in accordance with Article 9 (2)(d) GDPR. In the case of a communication of special categories of data based on voluntary consent, their processing is carried out on the basis of Article 9 (2)(a) GDPR.
National data protection regulations in Germany: In addition to the data protection regulations of the GDPR, national regulations apply to data protection in Germany. This includes in particular the Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG). In particular, the BDSG contains special provisions on the right to access, the right to erase, the right to object, the processing of special categories of personal data, processing for other purposes and transmission as well as automated individual decision-making, including profiling. Furthermore, data protection laws of the individual federal states may apply.
Reference to the applicability of the GDPR and the Swiss DPA: This privacy policy is intended to provide information in accordance with both the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Where references are made to concepts such as the processing of personal data, legitimate interests, or special categories of data, these references are to be understood in accordance with the applicable data protection laws. Within the scope of application of the Swiss FADP, the legal interpretation of these terms is determined exclusively by Swiss law.
Security Precautions
We take appropriate technical and organisational measures in accordance with the legal requirements, taking into account the state of the art, the costs of implementation and the nature, scope, context and purposes of processing as well as the risk of varying likelihood and severity for the rights and freedoms of natural persons, in order to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk.
The measures include, in particular, safeguarding the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data by controlling physical and electronic access to the data as well as access to, input, transmission, securing and separation of the data. In addition, we have established procedures to ensure that data subjects’ rights are respected, that data is erased, and that we are prepared to respond to data threats rapidly. Furthermore, we take the protection of personal data into account as early as the development or selection of hardware, software and service providers, in accordance with the principle of privacy by design and privacy by default.
Securing online connections through TLS/SSL encryption technology (HTTPS): To protect the data of users transmitted via our online services from unauthorized access, we employ TLS/SSL encryption technology. Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) are the cornerstones of secure data transmission on the internet. These technologies encrypt the information that is transferred between the website or app and the user’s browser (or between two servers), thereby safeguarding the data from unauthorized access. TLS, as the more advanced and secure version of SSL, ensures that all data transmissions conform to the highest security standards. When a website is secured with 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 securely and encryptedly transmitted.
Transmission of Personal Data
In the course of processing personal data, it may happen that this data is transmitted to or disclosed to other entities, companies, legally independent organizational units, or individuals. Recipients of this data may include service providers tasked with IT duties or providers of services and content that are integrated into a website. In such cases, we observe the legal requirements and particularly conclude relevant contracts or agreements that serve to protect your data with the recipients of 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 using third-party services or the disclosure or transfer of data to other individuals, entities, or companies (which becomes apparent either from the postal address of the respective provider or when explicitly mentioned in the privacy policy regarding data transfer to third countries), this is always done in accordance with legal requirements.
For data transfers to the USA, we primarily rely on the Data Privacy Framework (DPF), which has been recognized as a secure legal framework by the EU Commission’s adequacy decision of July 10, 2023. Additionally, we have concluded Standard Contractual Clauses with the respective providers, which comply with the EU Commission’s requirements and establish contractual obligations to protect your data.
This dual safeguard ensures comprehensive protection of your data: The DPF serves as the primary level of protection, while the Standard Contractual Clauses act as an additional security measure. Should any changes occur within the DPF framework, the Standard Contractual Clauses will serve as a reliable fallback option. This ensures that your data remains adequately protected even in the event of political or legal changes.
For individual service providers, we will inform you whether they are certified under the DPF and if Standard Contractual Clauses are in place. The list of certified companies and further information about the DPF can be found on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s website at https://www.dataprivacyframework.gov/.
For data transfers to other third countries, appropriate safeguards apply, particularly Standard Contractual Clauses, explicit consent, or legally required transfers. Information on third-country transfers and applicable adequacy decisions can be found in the information provided by the EU Commission: https://commission.europa.eu/law/law-topic/data-protection/international-dimension-data-protection_en.
We will inform you which of our service providers are certified under the Data Privacy Framework as part of our data protection notices.
General Information on Data Retention and Deletion
We delete personal data that we process in accordance with legal regulations as soon as the underlying consents are revoked or no further legal bases for processing exist. This applies to cases where the original purpose of processing is no longer applicable or the data is no longer needed. Exceptions to this rule exist if statutory obligations or special interests require a longer retention or archiving of the data.
In particular, data that must be retained for commercial or tax law reasons, or whose storage is necessary for legal prosecution or protection of the rights of other natural or legal persons, must be archived accordingly.
Our privacy notices contain additional information on the retention and deletion of data specifically applicable to certain processing processes.
In cases where multiple retention periods or deletion deadlines for a date are specified, the longest period always prevails.
Data that is no longer stored for its originally intended purpose but due to legal requirements or other reasons are processed exclusively for the reasons justifying their retention.
Data Retention and Deletion: The following general deadlines apply for the retention and archiving according to German law:
- 10 Years – Fiscal Code/Commercial Code – Retention period for books and records, annual financial statements, inventories, management reports, opening balance sheet as well as the necessary work instructions and other organisational documents (Section 147 Paragraph 1 No. 1 in conjunction with Paragraph 3 of the German General Tax Code (AO), Section 257 Paragraph 1 No. 1 in conjunction with Paragraph 4 of the German Commercial Code (HGB)).
- 8 years – Accounting documents, such as invoices, booking and expense receipts (Section 147 Paragraph 1 No. 4 and 4a in conjunction with Paragraph 3 of the German General Tax Code (AO), Section 14b Paragraph 1 of the German VAT Act (UStG), Section 257 Paragraph 1 No. 4 in conjunction with Paragraph 4 of the German Commercial Code (HGB))
- 6 Years – Other business documents: received commercial or business letters, copies of dispatched commercial or business letters, and other documents to the extent that they are significant for taxation purposes, for example, hourly wage slips, operating accounting sheets, calculation documents, price tags, as well as payroll accounting documents, provided they are not already accounting vouchers and cash register tapes Section (Section 147 Paragraph 1 No. 2, 3, 5 in conjunction with Paragraph 3 of the German General Tax Code (AO), Section 257 Paragraph 1 No. 2 and 3 in conjunction with Paragraph 4 of the German Commercial Code (HGB)).
- 3 Years – Data required to consider potential warranty and compensation claims or similar contractual claims and rights, as well as to process related inquiries, based on previous business experiences and common industry practices, will be stored for the duration of the regular statutory limitation period of three years. This period begins at the end of the year in which the relevant contractual transaction took place or the contractual relationship ended in the case of ongoing contracts (Sections 195, 199 of the German Civil Code).
Start of the period at the end of the year: If a period does not expressly start on a specific date and lasts at least one year, it automatically begins at the end of the calendar year in which the event triggering the period occurred. In the case of ongoing contractual relationships in the context of which data is stored, the event triggering the deadline is the time at which the termination or other termination of the legal relationship takes effect.
Rights of Data Subjects
Rights of the Data Subjects under the GDPR: As data subject, you are entitled to various rights under the GDPR, which arise in particular from Articles 15 to 21 of the GDPR:
- Right to Object: You have the right, on grounds arising from your particular situation, to object at any time to the processing of your personal data which is based on letter (e) or (f) of Article 6(1) GDPR, including profiling based on those provisions. Where personal data are processed for direct marketing purposes, you have the right to object at any time to the processing of the personal data concerning you for the purpose of such marketing, which includes profiling to the extent that it is related to such direct marketing.
- Right of withdrawal for consents: You have the right to revoke consents at any time.
- Right of access: You have the right to request confirmation as to whether the data in question will be processed and to be informed of this data and to receive further information and a copy of the data in accordance with the provisions of the law.
- Right to rectification: You have the right, in accordance with the law, to request the completion of the data concerning you or the rectification of the incorrect data concerning you.
- Right to Erasure and Right to Restriction of Processing: In accordance with the statutory provisions, you have the right to demand that the relevant data be erased immediately or, alternatively, to demand that the processing of the data be restricted in accordance with the statutory provisions.
- Right to data portability: You have the right to receive data concerning you which you have provided to us in a structured, common and machine-readable format in accordance with the legal requirements, or to request its transmission to another controller.
- Without prejudice to any other administrative or judicial remedy, you have the right to lodge a complaint with a data protection supervisory authority if you consider that the processing of your personal data infringes the GDPR. In particular, you may lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority in the Member State of your habitual residence, place of work or the place of the alleged infringement.
Business services
We process personal data of our contractual and business partners, such as Customers, Clients, Prospective Customers, Suppliers and other cooperation partners (collectively referred to as “Contractual Partners”), for the initiation, execution and settlement of contractual relationships as well as comparable legal relationships. This also includes pre-contractual measures carried out at the request of the parties and communication related to the respective contractual relationship.
Processing serves in particular to fulfil our primary and secondary contractual obligations. This includes providing the agreed services, any update and information obligations, handling warranty claims and other service disruptions, processing revocations, terminations of continuing obligations, reversals, refunds as well as handling other contract-related statements and enquiries. Both one-off contracts and ongoing contractual relationships are covered.
In particular, we process master data such as name, address and where applicable company name; contact details such as email address and telephone number; contract and service data such as subject matter of the contract, duration of the contract, order or transaction number; usage and performance data; payment and billing data; as well as communication content and histories. Where necessary, we also process data disclosed or transmitted to us in connection with carrying out an assignment.
Furthermore, we process the data to safeguard our rights and to comply with legal obligations. This particularly includes commercial law and tax law retention requirements, documentation obligations as well as possible duties of proof or accountability. Processing may also take place on the basis of our legitimate interests in proper business management, internal administration, risk control and IT security as well as in protecting our business operations and Contractual Partners against misuse or threats to data, secrets or other legal assets. This may include involving external Service Providers such as IT- and telecommunications providers, transport- or logistics companies, payment service providers, banks, tax advisors or legal advisors or other vicarious agents insofar as this is required for executing contracts or fulfilling legal obligations.
Personal data will only be passed on to third parties if this is necessary for fulfilling a contract or conducting pre-contractual measures; safeguarding legitimate interests; or complying with statutory obligations. We will inform you separately within this privacy policy about any further processing activities—particularly those undertaken for marketing purposes.
Which specific data is required in each case will be communicated to Contractual Partners during collection—for example by appropriate labelling in online forms or during personal contact.
Data will be deleted once it is no longer required for these purposes provided there are no statutory retention requirements preventing deletion. Statutory retention periods—particularly under commercial- or tax law—may require longer storage periods. Data transmitted in connection with a specific assignment will be deleted after completion of that assignment and expiration of any applicable retention period unless further statutory or contractual storage obligations exist.
- Processed data types: Inventory data (For example, the 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 phone numbers). Contract data (e.g. contract object, duration, customer category).
- Data subjects: Service recipients and clients; Prospective customers. Business and contractual partners.
- Purposes of processing and legitimate interests: Provision of contractual services and fulfillment of contractual obligations; Communication; Office and organisational procedures; Organisational and Administrative Procedures. Business processes and management procedures.
- Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Retention and Deletion”.
- Legal Basis: Performance of a contract and prior requests (Article 6 (1) (b) GDPR); Compliance with a legal obligation (Article 6 (1) (c) GDPR). Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR).
Provision of online services and web hosting
We process user data in order to be able to provide them with our online services. For this purpose, we process the IP address of the user, which is necessary to transmit the content and functions of our online services to the user’s browser or terminal device.
- Processed data types: Usage data (e.g. page views and duration of visit, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, types of devices and operating systems used, interactions with content and features); Meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, involved parties). Log data (e.g. log files concerning logins or data retrieval or access times.).
- Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
- Purposes of processing and legitimate interests: Provision of our online services and usability; Information technology infrastructure (Operation and provision of information systems and technical devices, such as computers, servers, etc.)). Security measures.
- Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Retention and Deletion”.
- Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR).
Further information on processing methods, procedures and services used:
- Provision of online offer on rented hosting space: For the provision of our online services, we use storage space, computing capacity and software that we rent or otherwise obtain from a corresponding server provider (also referred to as a “web hoster”); Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR).
- Collection of Access Data and Log Files: Access to our online service is logged in the form of so-called “server log files”. Server log files may include the address and name of the accessed web pages and files, date and time of access, transferred data volumes, notification of successful retrieval, browser type along with version, the user’s operating system, referrer URL (the previously visited page), and typically 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 abusive attacks, known as DDoS attacks), and to ensure server load management and stability; Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR). Retention period: Log file information is stored for a maximum period of 30 days and then deleted or anonymized. Data, the further storage of which is necessary for evidence purposes, are excluded from deletion until the respective incident has been finally clarified.
- Dynamic Lines: Web hosting and provision of the online services. A data processing agreement (DPA) has been concluded with the provider. Service provider: Dynamic Lines GmbH, Frundsbergstraße 1, 80634 Munich, Germany.
Use of Cookies
The term “cookies” refers to functions that store information on users’ devices and read it from them. Cookies can also be used for different purposes, such as ensuring the functionality, security, and convenience of online services, as well as analyzing visitor traffic. We use cookies in accordance with legal regulations. If necessary, we obtain users’ consent in advance. If consent is not required, we rely on our legitimate interests. This applies when storing and reading information is essential to provide explicitly requested content and functions. This includes, for example, saving settings and ensuring the functionality and security of our online services. Consent can be withdrawn at any time. We clearly inform users about the scope of the consent and which cookies are used.
Information on legal data protection bases: Whether we process personal data using cookies depends on users’ consent. If consent is given, it serves as the legal basis. Without consent, we rely on our legitimate interests, as outlined in this section and in the context of the respective services and procedures.
Storage duration: The following types of cookies are distinguished based on their storage duration:
- Temporary cookies (also: session cookies): Temporary cookies are deleted at the latest after a user leaves an online service and closes their device (e.g., browser or mobile application).
- Permanent cookies: Permanent cookies remain stored even after the device is closed. For example, the login status can be saved, and preferred content can be displayed directly when the user revisits a website. Additionally, the user data collected with cookies may be used for audience measurement. Unless we provide explicit information to users about the type and storage duration of cookies (e.g., when obtaining consent), users should assume that these are permanent and may have a storage duration of up to two years.
General information on withdrawal and objection (opt-out): Users can withdraw their consent at any time and also object to the processing according to legal regulations, including through the privacy settings of their browser.
- Processed data types: Meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, involved parties). Usage data (e.g. page views and duration of visit, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, types of devices and operating systems used, interactions with content and features).
- Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
- Purposes of processing and legitimate interests: Provision of our online services and usability.
- Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR). Consent (Article 6 (1) (a) GDPR).
Further information on processing methods, procedures and services used:
- Processing Cookie Data on the Basis of Consent: We implement a consent management solution that obtains users’ consent for the use of cookies or for the processes and providers mentioned within the consent management framework. This procedure is designed to solicit, log, manage, and revoke consents, particularly regarding the use of cookies and similar technologies employed to store, read from, and process information on users’ devices. As part of this procedure, user consents are obtained for the use of cookies and the associated processing of information, including specific processing and providers named in the consent management process. Users also have the option to manage and withdraw their consents. Consent declarations are stored to avoid repeated queries and to provide proof of consent according to legal requirements. The storage is carried out server-side and/or in a cookie (so-called opt-in cookie) or by means of comparable technologies in order to associate the consent with a specific user or their device.If no specific details about the providers of consent management services are provided, the following general notes apply: The duration of consent storage is up to two years. A pseudonymous user identifier is created, which is stored along with the time of consent, details on the scope of consent (e.g., relevant categories of cookies and/or service providers), as well as information about the browser, system, and device used; Legal Basis: Consent (Article 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 as well as revoke corresponding consents.
- Complianz: Cookie Consent Management: Procedures for obtaining, recording, managing, and revoking consents, particularly for the use of cookies and similar technologies for storing, accessing, and processing information on users’ devices as well as their processing; Service provider: Executed on servers and/or computers under our controllership; Website: https://complianz.io/; Privacy Policy: https://complianz.io/legal/. Further Information: An individual user ID, language as well as types of consent and the time of their submission are stored on the server and in the cookie on the user’s device.
Contact and Inquiry Management
When contacting us (e.g. via mail, contact form, e-mail, telephone or via social media) as well as in the context of existing user and business relationships, the information of the inquiring persons is processed to the extent necessary to respond to the contact requests and any requested measures.
- Processed data types: Contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or phone numbers); Content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and contributions, as well as information pertaining to them, such as details of authorship or the time of creation.). Meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, involved parties).
- Data subjects: Communication partner (Recipients of e-mails, letters, etc.).
- Purposes of processing and legitimate interests: Communication; Organisational and Administrative Procedures; Feedback (e.g. collecting feedback via online form). Provision of our online services and usability.
- Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Retention and Deletion”.
- Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR). Performance of a contract and prior requests (Article 6 (1) (b) GDPR).
Further information on processing methods, procedures and services used:
- Contact form: Upon contacting us via our contact form, email, or other means of communication, we process the personal data transmitted to us for the purpose of responding to and handling the respective matter. This typically includes details such as name, contact information, and possibly additional information provided to us that is necessary for appropriate processing. We use this data exclusively for the stated purpose of contact and communication; Legal Basis: Performance of a contract and prior requests (Article 6 (1) (b) GDPR), Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR).
Cloud Services
We use Internet-accessible software services (so-called “cloud services”, also referred to as “Software as a Service”) provided on the servers of its providers for the storage and management of content (e.g. document storage and management, exchange of documents, content and information with certain recipients or publication of content and information).
Within this framework, personal data may be processed and stored on the provider’s servers insofar as this data is part of communication processes with us or is otherwise processed by us in accordance with this privacy policy. This data may include in particular master data and contact data of data subjects, data on processes, contracts, other proceedings and their contents. Cloud service providers also process usage data and metadata that they use for security and service optimization purposes.
If we use cloud services to provide documents and content to other users or publicly accessible websites, forms, etc., providers may store cookies on users’ devices for web analysis or to remember user settings (e.g. in the case of media control).
- Processed data types: Inventory data (For example, the full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); Contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or phone numbers); Content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and contributions, as well as information pertaining to them, such as details of authorship or the time of creation.). Usage data (e.g. page views and duration of visit, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, types of devices and operating systems used, interactions with content and features).
- Data subjects: Prospective customers; Communication partner (Recipients of e-mails, letters, etc.). Business and contractual partners.
- Purposes of processing and legitimate interests: Office and organisational procedures. Information technology infrastructure (Operation and provision of information systems and technical devices, such as computers, servers, etc.)).
- Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Retention and Deletion”.
- Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR).
Further information on processing methods, procedures and services used:
- Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Cloud Services: Provision of applications, protection of data and IT systems, as well as the use of system-generated log, diagnostic, and metadata for contract execution by Microsoft. The data processed includes contact details (name, email address), content data (files, comments, profiles), software setup and inventory data, device connectivity and configuration data, work interactions (badge swipe), as well as log and metadata. The processing is carried out for purposes of improving efficiency and productivity, cost efficiency, flexibility, mobility, enhanced communication, integration of Microsoft services, IT security and business operations of Microsoft. Data retention is determined by the respective document and company policies: up to 12 months for Defender (protection of data and IT systems) and 10 days for print management. Additionally, diagnostic data is collected for product stability 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 (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR); Website: https://microsoft.com; Privacy Policy: https://privacy.microsoft.com/de-de/privacystatement, Security information: https://www.microsoft.com/de-de/trustcenter; Data Processing Agreement: https://www.microsoft.com/licensing/docs/view/Microsoft-Products-and-Services-Data-Protection-Addendum-DPA. 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).
Profiles in Social Networks (Social Media)
We maintain online presences within social networks and process user data in this context in order to communicate with the users active there or to offer information about us.
We would like to point out that user data may be processed outside the European Union. This may entail risks for users, e.g. by making it more difficult to enforce users’ rights.
In addition, user data is usually processed within social networks for market research and advertising purposes. For example, user profiles can be created on the basis of user behaviour and the associated interests of users. The user profiles can then be used, for example, to place advertisements within and outside the networks which are presumed to correspond to the interests of the users. For these purposes, cookies are usually stored on the user’s computer, in which the user’s usage behaviour and interests are stored. Furthermore, data can be stored in the user profiles independently of the devices used by the users (especially if the users are members of the respective networks or will become members later on).
For a detailed description of the respective processing operations and the opt-out options, please refer to the respective data protection declarations and information provided by the providers of the respective networks.
Also in the case of requests for information and the exercise of rights of data subjects, we point out that these can be most effectively pursued with the providers. Only the providers have access to the data of the users and can directly take appropriate measures and provide information. If you still need help, please do not hesitate to contact us.
- Processed data types: Contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or phone numbers); Content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and contributions, as well as information pertaining to them, such as details of authorship or the time of creation.). Usage data (e.g. page views and duration of visit, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, types of devices and operating systems used, interactions with content and features).
- Data subjects: Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
- Purposes of processing and legitimate interests: Communication; Feedback (e.g. collecting feedback via online form). Public relations.
- Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Retention and Deletion”.
- Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR).
Further information on processing methods, procedures and services used:
- LinkedIn: Social network – We are jointly responsible with LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company for the collection (but not the further processing) of visitor data, which is used to create “Page Insights” (statistics) for our LinkedIn profiles. This data includes information about the types of content users view or interact with, as well as the actions they take. It also includes details about the devices used, such as IP addresses, operating systems, browser types, language settings, and cookie data, as well as profile details of users, such as job function, country, industry, seniority, company size, and employment status. Privacy information regarding the processing of user data by LinkedIn can be found in LinkedIn’s privacy policy: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy.
We have entered into a special agreement with LinkedIn Ireland (“Page Insights Joint Controller Addendum,” https://legal.linkedin.com/pages-joint-controller-addendum), which specifically regulates the security measures LinkedIn must comply with and in which LinkedIn has agreed to fulfill the rights of data subjects (i.e., users can, for example, direct requests for information or deletion directly to LinkedIn). The rights of users (particularly the right to information, deletion, objection, and to lodge a complaint with the competent supervisory authority) are not restricted by our agreements with LinkedIn. The joint responsibility is limited to the collection of data and its transmission to LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, a company based in the EU. Further processing of the data is the sole responsibility of LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, particularly concerning the transfer of data to the parent company LinkedIn Corporation in the USA; Service provider: LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company, Wilton Plaza, Dublin 2, Ireland; Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR); Website: https://www.linkedin.com; Privacy Policy: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy; Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF), Standard Contractual Clauses (https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy). Opt-Out: https://www.linkedin.com/psettings/guest-controls/retargeting-opt-out.
Management, Organization and Utilities
We use services, platforms and software from other providers (hereinafter referred to as ” third-party providers”) for the purposes of organizing, administering, planning and providing our services. When selecting third-party providers and their services, we comply with the legal requirements.
Within this context, personal data may be processed and stored on the servers of third-party providers. This may include various data that we process in accordance with this privacy policy. This data may include in particular master data and contact data of users, data on processes, contracts, other processes and their contents.
If users are referred to the third-party providers or their software or platforms in the context of communication, business or other relationships with us, the third-party provider processing may process usage data and metadata that can be processed by them for security purposes, service optimisation or marketing purposes. We therefore ask you to read the data protection notices of the respective third party providers.
- Processed data types: Content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and contributions, as well as information pertaining to them, such as details of authorship or the time of creation.); Usage data (e.g. page views and duration of visit, click paths, intensity and frequency of use, types of devices and operating systems used, interactions with content and features). Meta, communication and process data (e.g. IP addresses, timestamps, identification numbers, involved parties).
- Data subjects: Communication partner (Recipients of e-mails, letters, etc.). Users (e.g. website visitors, users of online services).
- Purposes of processing and legitimate interests: Provision of contractual services and fulfillment of contractual obligations; Office and organisational procedures; Provision of our online services and usability. Information technology infrastructure (Operation and provision of information systems and technical devices, such as computers, servers, etc.)).
- Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Retention and Deletion”.
- Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR).
Further information on processing methods, procedures and services used:
- ManageWP (GoDaddy): Management of WordPress websites, including in particular security monitoring, backup creation, performance optimisation, update management, website cloning, SEO analysis, uptime monitoring, reporting and team collaboration; Service provider: GoDaddy.com LLC, LLC ManageWP c/o WeWork, Friesenplatz 4, 50672 Köln, Germany; Legal Basis: Legitimate Interests (Article 6 (1) (f) GDPR); Website: https://managewp.com/; Privacy Policy: https://managewp.com/privacy-policy/; Data Processing Agreement: https://www.godaddy.com/de/legal/agreements/data-processing-addendum Provided by the service provider. Basis for third-country transfers: Data Privacy Framework (DPF).
Job Application Process
The application process requires applicants to provide us with the data necessary for their assessment and selection. The information required can be found in the job description or, in the case of online forms, in the information contained therein.
In principle, the required information includes personal information such as name, address, a contact option and proof of the qualifications required for a particular employment. Upon request, we will be happy to provide you with additional information.
Where available, applicants are welcome to submit their applications via our online form, which is securely encrypted to the latest standards. Alternatively, applications can also be sent to us by email. However, we kindly remind you that emails are not inherently encrypted over the Internet. While emails are usually encrypted in transit, they are not encrypted on the servers from which they are sent and received. Therefore, we cannot assume responsibility for the security of the application during its transmission from the sender to our server.
Processing of special categories of data: To the extent that special categories of personal data (Article 9(1) GDPR, e.g., health data, such as disability status or ethnic origin) are requested from applicants or communicated by them during the application process, their processing is carried out so that the controller or the data subject can exercise rights arising from employment law and the law of social security and social protection, in the case of protection of vital interests of the applicants or other persons, or for purposes of preventive or occupational medicine, for the assessment of the employee’s work ability, for medical diagnosis, for the provision or treatment in the health or social sector, or for the management of systems and services in the health or social sector.
Ereasure of data: In the event of a successful application, the data provided by the applicants may be further processed by us for the purposes of the employment relationship. Otherwise, if the application for a job offer is not successful, the applicant’s data will be deleted. Applicants’ data will also be deleted if an application is withdrawn, to which applicants are entitled at any time. Subject to a justified revocation by the applicant, the deletion will take place at the latest after the expiry of a period of six months, so that we can answer any follow-up questions regarding the application and comply with our duty of proof under the regulations on equal treatment of applicants. Invoices for any reimbursement of travel expenses are archived in accordance with tax regulations.
Admission to a talent pool – Admission to a talent pool, if offered, is based on consent. Applicants are informed that their consent to be included in the talent pool is voluntary, has no influence on the current application process and that they can revoke their consent at any time for the future.
Duration of data retention in the applicant pool in months: 24
- Processed data types: Inventory data (For example, the full name, residential address, contact information, customer number, etc.); Contact data (e.g. postal and email addresses or phone numbers); Content data (e.g. textual or pictorial messages and contributions, as well as information pertaining to them, such as details of authorship or the time of creation.). Job applicant details (e.g. Personal data, postal and contact addresses and the documents pertaining to the application and the information contained therein, such as cover letter, curriculum vitae, certificates, etc., as well as other information on the person or qualifications of applicants provided with regard to a specific job or voluntarily by applicants).
- Data subjects: Job applicants.
- Purposes of processing and legitimate interests: Job Application Process (Establishment and possible later execution as well as possible later termination of the employment relationship).
- Retention and deletion: Deletion in accordance with the information provided in the section “General Information on Data Retention and Deletion”.
- Legal Basis: Job application process as a pre-contractual or contractual relationship (Article 6 (1) (b) GDPR).
Changes and Updates
We kindly ask you to inform yourself regularly about the contents of our data protection declaration. We will adjust the privacy policy as changes in our data processing practices 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 of companies and organizations in this privacy policy, we ask you to note that addresses may change over time and to verify the information before contacting us.
Terminology and Definitions
In this section, you will find an overview of the terminology used in this privacy policy. Where the terminology is legally defined, their legal definitions apply. The following explanations, however, are primarily intended to aid understanding.
- Contact data: Contact details are essential information that enables communication with individuals or organizations. They include, among others, phone numbers, postal addresses, and email addresses, as well as means of communication like social media handles and instant messaging identifiers.
- Content data: Content data comprise information generated in the process of creating, editing, and publishing content of all types. This category of data may include texts, images, videos, audio files, and other multimedia content published across various platforms and media. Content data are not limited to the content itself but also include metadata providing information about the content, such as tags, descriptions, authorship details, and publication dates.
- Contract data: Contract data are specific details pertaining to the formalisation of an agreement between two or more parties. They document the terms under which services or products are provided, exchanged, or sold. This category of data is essential for managing and fulfilling contractual obligations and includes both the identification of the contracting parties and the specific terms and conditions of the agreement. Contract data may encompass the start and end dates of the contract, the nature of the agreed-upon services or products, pricing arrangements, payment terms, termination rights, extension options, and special conditions or clauses. They serve as the legal foundation for the relationship between the parties and are crucial for clarifying rights and duties, enforcing claims, and resolving disputes.
- Controller: “Controller” means 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.
- Inventory data: Inventory data encompass essential information required for the identification and management of contractual partners, user accounts, profiles, and similar assignments. These data may include, among others, personal and demographic details such as names, contact information (addresses, phone numbers, email addresses), birth dates, and specific identifiers (user IDs). Inventory data form the foundation for any formal interaction between individuals and services, facilities, or systems, by enabling unique assignment and communication.
- Log data: Protocol data, or log data, refer to information regarding events or activities that have been logged within a system or network. These data typically include details such as timestamps, IP addresses, user actions, error messages, and other specifics about the usage or operation of a system. Protocol data is often used for analyzing system issues, monitoring security, or generating performance reports.
- Meta, communication and process 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, include information that describes the context, origin, and structure of other data. They can include details about file size, creation date, the author of a document, and modification histories. Communication data capture the exchange of information between users across various channels, such as email traffic, call logs, messages in social networks, and chat histories, including the involved parties, timestamps, and transmission paths. Procedural data describe the processes and operations within systems or organisations, including workflow documentations, logs of transactions and activities, and audit logs used for tracking and verifying procedures.
- Payment Data: Payment data comprise all information necessary for processing 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 account information, payment amounts, transaction dates, verification numbers, and billing information. Payment data may also contain information on payment status, chargebacks, authorizations, and fees.
- Personal Data: “personal data” means any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person (“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.
- Processing: The term “processing” covers a wide range and practically every handling of data, be it collection, evaluation, storage, transmission or erasure.
- Usage data: Usage data refer to information that captures how users interact with digital products, services, or platforms. These data encompass a wide range of information that demonstrates how users utilise applications, which features they prefer, how long they spend on specific pages, and through what paths they navigate an application. Usage data can also include the frequency of use, timestamps of activities, IP addresses, device information, and location data. They are particularly valuable for analysing user behaviour, optimising user experiences, personalising content, and improving products or services. Furthermore, usage data play a crucial role in identifying trends, preferences, and potential problem areas within digital offerings