Cookies are small text files or other storage marks that store information on devices and retrieve information from them. For example, they can be used to store the login status of a user account, the contents of a shopping cart in an online shop, the accessed content, or the functions used in an online service. Cookies can also be used for various purposes, such as ensuring the functionality, security, and comfort of online services, as well as for creating analyses of visitor flows.
Consent Information:
We use cookies in accordance with legal regulations. Therefore, we obtain prior consent from users unless it is not legally required. Consent is particularly unnecessary if the storage and retrieval of information, including cookies, are absolutely necessary to provide a telemedia service (i.e., our online service) explicitly requested by the users. Essential cookies generally include those that serve purposes related to the display and functionality of the online service, load balancing, security, storage of user preferences and choices, or similar purposes connected to providing the primary and secondary functions of the online service requested by the users. The revocable consent is clearly communicated to users and includes information on the respective use of cookies.
Information on Data Protection Legal Bases:
The legal basis on which we process users’ personal data using cookies depends on whether we ask users for consent. If users give their consent, the legal basis for processing their data is the declared consent. Otherwise, the data processed with the help of cookies is based on our legitimate interests (e.g., in the economic operation of our online service and improving its usability) or, if necessary for fulfilling our contractual obligations when the use of cookies is required to meet our contractual obligations. We clarify the purposes for which we process cookies in this privacy policy or as part of our consent and processing procedures.
Storage Duration:
Regarding the storage duration, the following types of cookies are distinguished:
- Temporary Cookies (also: Session Cookies): Temporary cookies are deleted at the latest after a user has left an online service and closed their device (e.g., browser or mobile application).
- Permanent Cookies: Permanent cookies remain stored even after closing the device. For example, the login status can be saved, or preferred content can be displayed directly when the user revisits a website. Similarly, the data collected with the help of cookies can be used for reach measurement. If we do not provide explicit information to users about the type and storage duration of cookies (e.g., as part of obtaining consent), users should assume that cookies are permanent and that the storage duration can be up to two years.
General Information on Revocation and Objection (so-called “Opt-Out”):
Users can revoke their given consent at any time and object to the processing following the legal requirements. For this purpose, users can, among other things, restrict the use of cookies in their browser settings (which may limit the functionality of our online service). An objection to the use of cookies for online marketing purposes can also be declared through the websites https://optout.aboutads.info and https://www.youronlinechoices.com.
Legal Bases: Legitimate Interests (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. f) GDPR). Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR).
Further Notes on Processing Procedures, Methods, and Services:
Processing of Cookie Data Based on Consent:
We use a consent management solution to obtain users’ consent for using cookies or the procedures and providers mentioned in the consent management solution. This procedure serves to obtain, log, manage, and revoke consent, particularly regarding the use of cookies and comparable technologies used for storing, retrieving, and processing information on users’ devices. As part of this process, users’ consent for the use of cookies and the associated processing of information, including the specific processing and providers mentioned in the consent management procedure, is obtained. Users also have the option to manage and revoke their consent. The consent declarations are stored to avoid repeated inquiries and to provide proof of consent following legal requirements. The storage is done server-side and/or in a cookie (so-called Opt-In-Cookie) or using similar technologies to assign the consent to a specific user or their device. Unless specific information about the providers of consent management services is provided, the following general notes apply: The storage duration of the consent is up to two years. A pseudonymous user identifier is created, which is stored together with the time of consent, details about the scope of consent (e.g., related categories of cookies and/or service providers), and information about the browser, system, and device used; Legal Bases: Consent (Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a) GDPR).