Cookie Policy

Last Updated: March 06, 2025

xTID ("xTID," "we," "us," or "our") uses cookies and similar technologies on our website (https://xtid.io) and Services to enhance user experience, analyze performance, and ensure functionality. This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are, how we use them, and your choices regarding their use, in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the ePrivacy Directive.

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website. They help us recognize your device, remember preferences, and improve functionality. We may also use similar technologies like pixels or local storage for the same purposes.

2. Types of Cookies We Use

We categorize cookies as follows:

  • Essential Cookies: Necessary for the website to function, such as enabling user login and divtaining session data. (e.g., Session cookies for authentication)
  • Performance Cookies: Collect anonymous data on how users interact with our site to improve performance. (e.g., Google Analytics cookies for page load times)
  • Functionality Cookies: Remember your preferences, such as language settings or cookie consent choices. (e.g., Cookie consent popup settings)
  • Analytics Cookies: Help us understand user behavior, such as tracking page visits and clicks, to enhance our Services. (e.g., Hotjar for heatmaps)

We do not use advertising cookies or track users for marketing purposes.

3. How We Use Cookies

We use cookies to:

  • Ensure the functionality of our verification platform (e.g., secure login, session management).
  • Analyze website performance and user behavior to improve our Services (e.g., tracking page load times).
  • Remember your preferences, such as language selection or consent settings.
  • Enhance security by detecting unusual activity (e.g., repeated login attempts).

4. Cookie Consent

Upon visiting our website, you will be presented with a cookie consent popup. You can accept all cookies, reject non-essential cookies, or customize your preferences. Essential cookies are always active to ensure the site functions properly and do not require consent under GDPR. You can change your preferences at any time via the "Cookie Settings" link in our footer.

5. Third-Party Cookies

We may use third-party services that set cookies, such as:

  • Google Analytics: For performance and analytics (e.g., tracking page views, bounce rates).
  • Hotjar: For user behavior analysis (e.g., heatmaps, session recordings).

These third parties have their own privacy policies, which we encourage you to review. Data shared with them is anonymized where possible.

6. Your Choices Regarding Cookies

You can manage cookies via:

  • Our Cookie Settings: Adjust preferences through the "Cookie Settings" link in our footer.
  • Browser Settings: Block or delete cookies in your browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox). Note that blocking essential cookies may impair site functionality.
  • Do Not Track: We honor Do Not Track (DNT) signals where applicable.

For more information, visit www.allaboutcookies.org.

7. Data Retention

Cookies are retained for varying periods:

  • Session Cookies: Expire when you close your browser.
  • Persistent Cookies: Retained for up to 12 months (e.g., analytics cookies), unless you delete them earlier.

8. International Data Transfers

Cookie data may be processed by third-party providers (e.g., Google Analytics) outside the EU. We ensure GDPR-compliant safeguards, such as Standard Contractual Clauses, are in place.

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in technology or legal requirements. Updates will be posted here with a revised "Last Updated" date. Significant changes will be communicated via email or a website notice.

10. Contact Us

For questions about our use of cookies, contact our Data Protection Officer at dpo@xtid.io or write to xTID, Bildungscampus 1, 74076 Heilbronn, Germany.