DATA PROTECTION INFORMATION

I. Name and address of the controller

The controller within the meaning of the General Data Protection Regulation and other national data protection laws of the member states as well as other data protection regulations is the:

Opinions LTD
President Mark Kikel
31 South Franklin Street
Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
United States of America
Phone: +1 440.893.0300
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.opinionsltd.com

II. Name and address of the data protection officer

A data protection officer is not required due to the number of persons involved in data processing.

III General information on data processing

1. scope of the processing of personal data
We only process our users’ personal data insofar as this is necessary to provide a functional website and our content and services. The processing of our users’ personal data only takes place regularly with the user’s consent. An exception applies in cases where prior consent cannot be obtained for factual reasons and the processing of the data is permitted by law.

2. legal basis for the processing of personal data
Insofar as we obtain the consent of the data subject for the processing of personal data, Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) serves as the legal basis.

When processing personal data that is necessary for the performance of a contract to which the data subject is a party, Art. 6 para. 1 lit. b GDPR serves as the legal basis. This also applies to processing operations that are necessary for the performance of pre-contractual measures.

Insofar as the processing of personal data is necessary to fulfill a legal obligation to which our company is subject, Art. 6 para. 1 lit. c GDPR serves as the legal basis.

In the event that vital interests of the data subject or another natural person require the processing of personal data, Art. 6 para. 1 lit. d GDPR serves as the legal basis.

If the processing is necessary to safeguard a legitimate interest of our company or a third party and if the interests, fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subject do not outweigh the former interest, Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR serves as the legal basis for the processing.

3. data deletion and storage duration

The personal data of the data subject will be deleted or blocked as soon as the purpose of storage no longer applies. Data may also be stored if this has been provided for by the European or national legislator in EU regulations, laws or other provisions to which the controller is subject. The data will also be blocked or erased if a storage period prescribed by the aforementioned standards expires, unless there is a need for further storage of the data for the conclusion or fulfillment of a contract.

IV. Provision of the website and creation of log files

1. description and scope of data processing
Each time our website is accessed, our system automatically collects data and information from the computer system of the accessing computer.

– The IP address of the user (temporary for the duration of the website visit)

The data is also stored in the log files of our system. This data is not stored together with other personal data of the user.

2. legal basis for data processing
The legal basis for the temporary storage of data and log files is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR.

3. purpose of data processing
Temporary storage of the IP address by the system is necessary to enable delivery of the website to the user’s computer. For this purpose, the user’s IP address must remain stored for the duration of the session.

Data is stored in log files to ensure the functionality of the website. We also use the data to optimize the website and to ensure the security of our information technology systems. The data is not analyzed for marketing purposes in this context.

These purposes also constitute our legitimate interest in data processing in accordance with Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR.

4. duration of storage
The data is deleted as soon as it is no longer required to achieve the purpose for which it was collected. In the case of the collection of data for the provision of the website, this is the case when the respective session has ended.
If the data is stored in log files, this is the case after seven days at the latest. Storage beyond this period is possible. In this case, the IP addresses of the users are deleted or anonymized so that it is no longer possible to identify the accessing client.

5. possibility of objection and removal
The collection of data for the provision of the website and the storage of data in log files is absolutely necessary for the operation of the website. Consequently, the user has no option to object.

V. Use of cookies

1. description and scope of data processing
Our website uses cookies. Cookies are text files that are stored in the Internet browser or by the Internet browser on the user’s computer system. When a user accesses a website, a cookie may be stored on the user’s operating system. This cookie contains a characteristic string of characters that enables the browser to be uniquely identified when the website is called up again.

We use cookies to make our website more user-friendly. Some elements of our website require that the accessing browser can be identified even after a page change. The following data is stored and transmitted in the cookies:

(1) Language settings
(2) Log-in information
(3) Search terms

We also use cookies on our website that enable an analysis of the user’s surfing behavior. You can find more information in the section on the respective cookie or analysis tool.

When accessing our website, the user is informed about the use of cookies for analysis purposes and his consent to the processing of the personal data used in this context is obtained. In this context, reference is also made to this privacy policy.

2. legal basis for data processing
The legal basis for the processing of personal data using technically necessary cookies is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR. The legal basis for the processing of personal data using cookies for analysis purposes is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR if the user has given consent to this.

3. purpose of data processing
The purpose of using technically necessary cookies is to simplify the use of websites for users. Some functions of our website cannot be offered without the use of cookies. For these, it is necessary for the browser to be recognized even after a page change. We require cookies for the following applications:

(1) Transfer of language settings
(2) Remembering search terms
(3) Login to the area for registered users (My Opinions Place, see below)

The user data collected by technically necessary cookies is not used to create user profiles.

Analysis cookies are used for the purpose of improving the quality of our website and its content. Through the analysis cookies, we learn how the website is used and can thus constantly optimize our offer.

These purposes also constitute our legitimate interest in the processing of personal data in accordance with Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR.

4. duration of storage, possibility of objection and removal
Cookies are stored on the user’s computer and transmitted by it to our website. As a user, you therefore have full control over the use of cookies. You can deactivate or restrict the transmission of cookies by changing the settings in your Internet browser. Cookies that have already been saved can be deleted at any time. This can also be done automatically. If cookies are deactivated for our website, it may no longer be possible to use all functions of the website to their full extent.

VI Contact form and e-mail contact

1. description and scope of data processing
There is a contact form on our website that can be used to contact us electronically. If a user makes use of this option, the data entered in the input mask will be transmitted to us and stored. These data are:

(1) Full name of the user
(2) Company (voluntary information)
(3) E-mail address
(4) Telephone number (optional)
(5) Free message text

The following data is also stored at the time the message is sent:

(1) The IP address of the user
(2) Date and time of registration

Your consent is obtained for the processing of the data as part of the sending process and reference is made to this privacy policy.

Alternatively, it is possible to contact us via the e-mail address provided. In this case, the user’s personal data transmitted with the e-mail will be stored.

No data will be passed on to third parties in this context. The data is used exclusively for processing the conversation.

2. legal basis for data processing
The legal basis for the processing of the data is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR if the user has given consent.

The legal basis for the processing of data transmitted in the course of sending an email is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR. If the e-mail contact is aimed at the conclusion of a contract, the additional legal basis for the processing is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. b GDPR.

3. purpose of data processing
The processing of the personal data from the input mask serves us solely to process the contact. If you contact us by email, this also constitutes the necessary legitimate interest in processing the data.

The other personal data processed during the sending process is used to prevent misuse of the contact form and to ensure the security of our information technology systems.

4. duration of storage
The data is deleted as soon as it is no longer required to achieve the purpose for which it was collected. For the personal data from the input screen of the contact form and those sent by email, this is the case when the respective conversation with the user has ended. The conversation is ended when it can be inferred from the circumstances that the matter in question has been conclusively clarified.
The additional personal data collected during the sending process will be deleted after a period of seven days at the latest.

5. possibility of objection and removal
The user has the option to revoke their consent to the processing of personal data at any time. If the user contacts us by email, they can object to the storage of their personal data at any time. In such a case, the conversation cannot be continued.
The objection can be submitted by post, e-mail or telephone using the contact details provided in Section I. All personal data stored in the course of making contact will be deleted in this case.

VII Registration as a survey participant with My Opinions Place

1. description and scope of data processing
A registration page (“My Opinions Place”) is available on our website, which can be used to create an account to participate in surveys. If a user makes use of this option, the data entered in the input mask will be transmitted to us and stored. These data are:

(1) Full name of the user
(2) Gender
(3) Date of birth
(4) E-mail address
(5) Phone number
(6) Zip code

The following data is also stored at the time the message is sent:

(1) The IP address of the user
(2) Date and time of registration

Your consent is obtained for the processing of the data as part of the registration process and reference is made to this privacy policy.

No data will be passed on to third parties in this context. The data will only be used to invite you to participate in surveys and then to carry out these surveys.

2. legal basis for data processing
The legal basis for the processing of the data is Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR if the user has given consent.

3. purpose of data processing
We process the personal data from the input screen in order to invite registered users to participate in surveys and, with their consent, to carry out the survey.
The other personal data processed during the sending process is used to prevent misuse of the contact form and to ensure the security of our information technology systems.

4. duration of storage
The data is deleted as soon as it is no longer required to achieve the purpose for which it was collected. For personal data from the registration process, this is the case if the user deletes their account or withdraws their consent to registration.
The additional personal data collected during the sending process will be deleted after a period of seven days at the latest.

5. possibility of objection and removal
The user has the option to revoke their consent to the processing of personal data at any time.

The objection can be submitted by post, e-mail or telephone using the contact details provided in Section I. All personal data stored for the registration will be deleted in this case.

VIII. Use of Google Analytics 4

If you have given your consent, Google Analytics 4, a web analysis service of Google LLC, is used on this website. The controller for users in the EU/EEA and Switzerland is Google Ireland Limited, Google Building Gordon House, 4 Barrow St, Dublin, D04 E5W5, Ireland (“Google”).

1. nature and purpose of the processing
Google Analytics uses cookies to help the website analyze how users use the site. The information collected by the cookies about your use of this website is usually transferred to a Google server in the USA and stored there.

In Google Analytics 4, the anonymization of IP addresses is activated by default. According to Google, the IP address transmitted by your browser as part of Google Analytics will not be merged with other Google data.

During your visit to the website, your user behavior is recorded in the form of “events”. Events can be:

• Page views
• First visit to the website
• Start of the session
• Websites visited
• Your “click path”, interaction with the website
• Scrolls (whenever a user scrolls to the end of the page (90%))
• Clicks on external links
• internal search queries
• Interaction with videos
• File downloads
• Viewed / clicked ads
• Language setting

Also recorded:
• Your approximate location (region)
• Date and time of the visit
• Your IP address (in abbreviated form)
• technical information about your browser and the end devices you use (e.g. language setting, screen resolution)
• Your Internet provider
• the referrer URL (via which website/advertising medium you came to this website)

2. purposes of the processing
On behalf of the operator of this website, Google will use this information to evaluate your [pseudonymous] use of the website and to compile reports on website activity. The reports provided by Google Analytics are used to analyze the performance of our website.

3rd receiver
Recipients of the data are/may be

• Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland (as processor pursuant to Art. 28 GDPR)
• Google LLC, 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway Mountain View, CA 94043, USA
• Alphabet Inc., 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway Mountain View, CA 94043, USA

4. third country transfer
For the USA, the European Commission adopted its adequacy decision on July 10, 2023. Google LLC is certified under the EU-US Privacy Framework.

5. storage period
The data sent by us and linked to cookies is automatically deleted after 2 months. The maximum lifespan of Google Analytics cookies is 2 years. Data whose retention period has been reached is automatically deleted once a month.

6. legal basis
The legal basis for this data processing is your consent in accordance with Art. 6 para. 1 sentence 1 lit. a GDPR and § 25 para. 1 sentence 1 TTDSG.

7. revocation
You can withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by accessing
the cookie settings [CLICKING THE BLUE COOKIE ICON IN THE LOWER LEFT CORNER] and changing your selection there. The lawfulness of the processing carried out on the basis of the consent until revocation remains unaffected.

You can also prevent the storage of cookies from the outset by setting your browser software accordingly. However, if you configure your browser to reject all cookies, this may limit the functionality of this and other websites. You can also prevent Google from collecting the data generated by the cookie and relating to your use of the website (including your IP address) and from processing this data by Google by clicking

a. Do not give your consent to the setting of cookies or
b. Download and install the browser add-on to deactivate Google Analytics HERE.
You can find more information on the terms of use of Google Analytics and on data protection at Google at https://marketingplatform.google.com/about/analytics/terms/de/ and at https://policies.google.com/?hl=de.

IX. Rights of the data subject

If your personal data is processed, you are a data subject within the meaning of the GDPR and you have the following rights vis-à-vis the controller:

1. right to information

You can request confirmation from the controller as to whether personal data concerning you is being processed by us.

If such processing has taken place, you can request the following information from the controller:

(1) the purposes for which the personal data are processed;
(2) the categories of personal data that are processed;
(3) the recipients or categories of recipients to whom the personal data concerning you have been or will be disclosed;
(4) the planned duration of storage of the personal data concerning you or, if specific information on this is not possible, criteria for determining the duration of storage;
(5) the existence of a right to rectification or erasure of personal data concerning you, a right to restriction of processing by the controller or a right to object to such processing;
(6) the existence of a right of appeal to a supervisory authority;
(7) all available information on the origin of the data if the personal data are not collected from the data subject;
(8) the existence of automated decision-making including profiling in accordance with Art. 22 (1) and (4) GDPR and – at least in these cases – meaningful information on the logic involved and the scope and intended effects of such processing for the data subject.
You have the right to request information as to whether the personal data concerning you is transferred to a third country or to an international organization. In this context, you may request to be informed of the appropriate safeguards pursuant to Art. 46 GDPR in connection with the transfer.

2. right to rectification
You have a right to rectification and/or completion vis-à-vis the controller if the processed personal data concerning you is incorrect or incomplete. The controller must make the correction without delay.

3. right to restriction of processing
You may request the restriction of the processing of your personal data under the following conditions:

(1) if you contest the accuracy of the personal data concerning you for a period enabling the controller to verify the accuracy of the personal data;
(2) the processing is unlawful and you oppose the erasure of the personal data and request the restriction of their use instead;
(3) the controller no longer needs the personal data for the purposes of the processing, but they are required by you for the establishment, exercise or defense of legal claims, or
(4) if you have objected to the processing pursuant to Art. 21 (1) GDPR and it has not yet been established whether the legitimate reasons of the controller override your reasons.

If the processing of personal data concerning you has been restricted, such data may only be processed – apart from being stored – with your consent or for the establishment, exercise or defense of legal claims or for the protection of the rights of another natural or legal person or for reasons of important public interest of the Union or of a Member State.

If the restriction of processing has been restricted in accordance with the above conditions, you will be informed by the controller before the restriction is lifted.

4. right to erasure
a) Obligation to delete
You have the right to obtain from the controller the erasure of personal data concerning you without undue delay and the controller shall have the obligation to erase personal data without undue delay where one of the following grounds applies:

(1) The personal data concerning you are no longer necessary for the purposes for which they were collected or otherwise processed.
(2) You revoke your consent on which the processing was based pursuant to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a or Art. 9 para. 2 lit. a GDPR and there is no other legal basis for the processing.
(3) You object to the processing pursuant to Art. 21 (1) GDPR and there are no overriding legitimate grounds for the processing, or you object to the processing pursuant to Art. 21 (2) GDPR.
(4) The personal data concerning you has been processed unlawfully.
(5) The deletion of personal data concerning you is necessary to fulfill a legal obligation under Union law or the law of the Member States to which the controller is subject.
(6) The personal data concerning you were collected in relation to information society services offered in accordance with Art. 8 para. 1 GDPR.

b) Information to third parties
If the controller has made the personal data concerning you public and is obliged to erase it pursuant to Article 17(1) GDPR, it shall take reasonable steps, including technical measures, taking into account the available technology and the cost of implementation, to inform controllers which are processing the personal data that you as the data subject have requested the erasure by such controllers of any links to, or copy or replication of, those personal data.

c) Exceptions
The right to erasure does not exist if the processing is necessary

(1) to exercise the right to freedom of expression and information;
(2) for compliance with a legal obligation which requires processing by Union or Member State law to which the controller is subject or for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest or in the exercise of official authority vested in the controller;
(3) for reasons of public interest in the area of public health in accordance with Art. 9 para. 2 lit. h and i and Art. 9 para. 3 GDPR;
(4) for archiving purposes in the public interest, scientific or historical research purposes or statistical purposes in accordance with Art. 89 para. 1 GDPR, insofar as the right referred to in section a) is likely to render impossible or seriously impair the achievement of the objectives of that processing, or
(5) for the assertion, exercise or defense of legal claims.

5. right to information
If you have asserted the right to rectification, erasure or restriction of processing against the controller, the controller is obliged to notify all recipients to whom the personal data concerning you have been disclosed of this rectification or erasure of the data or restriction of processing, unless this proves impossible or involves a disproportionate effort.

You have the right to be informed about these recipients by the controller.

6. right to data portability
You have the right to receive the personal data concerning you, which you have provided to the controller, in a structured, commonly used and machine-readable format. You also have the right to transmit this data to another controller without hindrance from the controller to which the personal data has been provided, where

(1) the processing is based on consent pursuant to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. a GDPR or Art. 9 para. 2 lit. a GDPR or on a contract pursuant to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. b GDPR and
(2) the processing is carried out by automated means.

In exercising this right, you also have the right to have the personal data concerning you transmitted directly from one controller to another, where technically feasible. The freedoms and rights of other persons must not be affected by this.

The right to data portability does not apply to the processing of personal data necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest or in the exercise of official authority vested in the controller.

7. right of objection
You have the right to object, on grounds relating to your particular situation, at any time to processing of personal data concerning you which is based on point (e) or (f) of Article 6(1) GDPR, including profiling based on those provisions.
The controller will no longer process the personal data concerning you unless the controller demonstrates compelling legitimate grounds for the processing which override your interests, rights and freedoms or for the establishment, exercise or defense of legal claims.

If your personal data is processed for direct marketing purposes, you have the right to object at any time to the processing of your personal data for such marketing, which includes profiling to the extent that it is related to such direct marketing.

If you object to processing for direct marketing purposes, your personal data will no longer be processed for these purposes.

Notwithstanding Directive 2002/58/EC, you have the option of exercising your right to object in connection with the use of information society services by means of automated procedures using technical specifications.

8. right to revoke the declaration of consent under data protection law
You have the right to withdraw your declaration of consent under data protection law at any time. The withdrawal of consent shall not affect the lawfulness of processing based on consent before its withdrawal.

9. right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority
Without prejudice to any other administrative or judicial remedy, you have the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority, in particular in the Member State of your habitual residence, place of work or place of the alleged infringement if you consider that the processing of personal data relating to you infringes the GDPR.

The supervisory authority with which the complaint has been lodged shall inform the complainant of the status and outcome of the complaint, including the possibility of a judicial remedy pursuant to Art. 78 GDPR.