Thank you for your interest in our website and organization. Protecting your privacy is of utmost importance to us. Please find below an explanation of how we treat your personal data.
Storage of access data in server log files
You can visit our website without disclosing any personal information. We store only the access data in server log files such as the names of the files requested, the data and time of the query, the data volumes transferred, and the provider used. This data is evaluated exclusively for the purpose of ensuring the disruption-free operation of the website and to improve our services; it does not permit us to derive any personal information about you.
Data collection and data use for the purpose of membership processing, adhesion to internal VFN groups and Notices e-mailings
VFN treats all personal data collected in our membership application form (MAF) confidentially. We do not forward nor share any data to or with third parties.
We collect personal data when you disclose it to us voluntarily when completing the MAF, VFN Facebook group membership, and when contacting us (e.g. by e-mail or Facebook). The data collected is the data displayed in the respective data entry forms. We use the data you provide for processing memberships and your enquiries.
The data you have provided is collected, processed, used and stored exclusively in accordance with the provisions of the Data Protection Act for the purpose of providing services, for book-keeping and payment processing, for logistics and for keeping membership records.
To protect your personal data from access by unauthorized third parties, the data is transferred encrypted using the SSL (secure socket layer) security standard during transmission. This software offers a high degree of security and encrypts all of the personal data sent such as PayPal number, name, address and e-mail in a code. This data cannot be read by unauthorized third parties under current technology standards and is transmitted to us securely.
By logging into the members-only section of our website, you can correct or update your personal information as well as your communication preferences.
You have the right to request information about your personal data stored in our systems at any time. It is also possible to ask for your personal data to be deleted from our system, which will end your membership. Please direct such a request here.
Data use when registering for the e-mail notices
We use the required data you provide or send separately for the purpose of regularly sending our e-mail notices with your consent. You may cancel your registration to our Notices at any time. You may do this either by e-mail or via the link in the Notices (Manage your Subscriptions button) made available for this purpose.
Cookie policy and web analytics service (Google Analytics)
Cookies are text files stored on your computer, and accessible only to the websites which create them. Our website may from time to time use cookies and log files for statistical analysis, to understand user behavior, to administer the site, to tailor the information presented to a user based on their preferences, and to improve user experience. Any information gathered by our use of cookies is compiled on an aggregated, anonymous basis.
Most web browsers automatically accept cookies; however, you may delete, or disable cookies by following the instructions at http://www.allaboutcookies.org/manage-cookies/. Please note that you may not be able to take full advantage of some websites if you disable cookies. Further information about cookies can be found on the Interactive Advertising Bureau’s website www.allaboutcookies.org.
Social media
If you share our content through social media, for example by liking us on Facebook, following or tweeting about us on Twitter, those social networks will record that you have done so and may set a cookie for this purpose.
Google Analytics
Our website uses Google Analytics, a web analytics service provided by Google, Inc. (“Google”). The information generated by the cookie about your use of our website (including your IP address) will be transmitted to and stored by Google on servers in the United States. Google will use this information for the purpose of evaluating your use of our website, compiling reports on website activity for website operators and providing other services relating to website activity and internet usage. Google may also transfer this information to third parties where required to do so by law, or where such third parties process the information on Google’s behalf. Google will not associate your IP address with any other data held by Google. Further information about Google’s privacy policy may be obtained from http://www.google.com/privacy.html.
Changes to the Cookie policy
We may update this policy from time to time. If we make significant changes, we will let you know, but please do check this policy regularly to ensure you are aware of the most updated version.
Tracking technologies
Our Notices provider is Mailchimp. We may receive reports based on the use of these technologies provided by Mailchimp on an individual as well as aggregated basis.
Links to 3rd party sites
Our site contains links to and from the websites of our member businesses and other third parties. If you follow a link to any of these websites, please note that these websites should have their own privacy policies and we do not accept any responsibility or liability for these policies or the content or operation of these websites. Please check the relevant policies and terms before you submit any personal data to these websites.
Right to information and how to contact us
You have the right to obtain information about your stored personal data free of charge. You also have the right to make corrections, to block information or to delete data. Please contact us directly here if you have questions relating to the collection, processing or use of your personal data, or if you have any questions, would like to correct the data, block or delete data, withdraw your consent or file an objection to a certain use of the data.