How Compare Software handles privacy and the GDPR

From 25 May 2018, all companies and organisations that store and process personal data of European citizens must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Although Software Compare has always strived to protect privacy, we have worked hard over the past months to comply with this new legislation.

Here you will find more information about how Software Compare will handle this regulation. If you have any questions or comments as a result, please contact us at dpo@compare.software or +31 (0)299 200310.

Use of personal data

First, we would like to clarify what is meant by "personal data". These are data that can be linked to an individual, or by which an individual can be identified. Think of things such as: name, phone number, email address, etc. General company data does not fall under this category. An exception applies to data about sole traders, who are regarded as individuals.

Collection and processing of personal data and data minimisation

As part of data minimisation, Software Compare will only collect, store and process personal data when this is necessary for the delivery of our services. Software Compare only collects personal data that is publicly available or that has been provided to us directly by the individuals concerned.

Informing individuals about the personal data policy

Software Compare strives to inform all individuals as clearly and completely as possible about how we handle personal data. For example, input forms on our websites will always clearly state what we collect the data for and how we use it.

Our websites will include a link referring to information about the GDPR and how Software Compare handles it. For completeness, new terms and conditions will be published on all websites and it will be clearly stated that cookies from partners are used on the website.

Sharing personal data with third parties

Software Compare never shares data with third parties without the explicit consent of the individuals concerned. Parties we assist in their search for the right software always give explicit permission to share their data with suppliers.

In addition, after qualification they receive an email describing exactly how the process works and how their data will be used. In it, we once again clearly state that they have given permission for their information to be shared with third parties. Should there be any objection to the sharing of this information, an explanation is provided on how to raise an objection.

Appointment of a data protection officer

Software Compare has appointed a data protection officer to handle questions, requests and complaints regarding privacy. This Data Protection Officer (DPO) strives to respond to privacy-related questions and requests as quickly, clearly and completely as possible. For questions, the DPO can be reached at dpo@compare.software or +31 (0)299 200310.

Access to personal data

The internal processes at Software Compare are structured so that employees only have access to personal data on a need-to-know basis. This means that personal data is only available to employees when it is required for the performance of their duties.

Services and suppliers

Software Compare has verified that all suppliers and services used by Software Compare for its operations comply with the requirements of the GDPR.

Right of access, correction, erasure and data portability

The individuals associated with Software Compare have the right to access their personal data. They have access to information about how Software Compare processes this data. Software Compare strives to provide, upon request, a clear overview of the data being processed. Individuals can receive a copy of the data we hold about them. Upon request, individuals can also be informed about the processing of their data, including the purpose of the processing, with whom the data has been shared and how the data was obtained.

Individuals have the right to request Software Compare to delete or correct personal data relating to them. Personal data is renewed within 18 months by default and otherwise deleted.

Individuals must be able to transfer their personal data to other parties. This also applies to anonymised data that can still be traced back to an individual. Software Compare provides this data, upon request, in a structured and commonly used open electronic standard.