Privacy Policy SofaConcerts GmbH

Last updated: February 2026


Table of Contents

  1. Controller and Legal Basis
  2. Data Collection During Website Visits
  3. Data Processing When Using Our Services
  4. Analytics Tools and Advertising
  5. Social Media and Content Integrations
  6. Payment Service Providers
  7. Other Services We Use
  8. Your Rights as a Data Subject
  9. Competent Supervisory Authority

1. Controller and Legal Basis

1.1 Controller under the GDPR

The controller within the meaning of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other data protection laws applicable in the European Union is:

SofaConcerts GmbH
Neuer Kamp 32
20357 Hamburg
Germany

Represented by: Peter Wilhelm, Miriam Werkmann (formerly Schütt)
Email: support@sofaconcerts.org
Website: www.sofaconcerts.org
Phone: +49-40-88-177-500


1.2 General Information on Data Processing

As a platform connecting musicians and music lovers, SofaConcerts can only function if certain information you provide as a user is stored by us. You can visit the website without registration, but features such as profile creation and contacting other members can only be used after prior registration.

Scope:
This privacy policy applies only to our websites. If you are redirected to other pages via links on our pages, please inform yourself there about the respective handling of your data.


1.3 Legal Basis for Processing

Your personal data within the meaning of Art. 4 No. 1 GDPR (e.g., title, name, address, email address, payment information) will only be processed by us in accordance with the provisions of German data protection law and in consideration of the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

The processing within the meaning of Art. 4 No. 2 GDPR of personal data is lawful according to Art. 6 GDPR if one of the following conditions exists:

a) Consent (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR)
The data subject has given their consent to the processing of their personal data for one or more specific purposes.

b) Contract Performance (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR)
Processing is necessary for the performance of a contract to which the data subject is a party or for taking steps at the request of the data subject prior to entering into a contract.

c) Legal Obligation (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. c GDPR)
Processing is necessary for compliance with a legal obligation to which the controller is subject.

d) Protection of Vital Interests (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. d GDPR)
Processing is necessary to protect the vital interests of the data subject or another natural person.

e) Public Interest (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. e GDPR)
Processing is necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest or in the exercise of official authority vested in the controller.

f) Legitimate Interest (Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR)
Processing is necessary for the purposes of the legitimate interests pursued by the controller or a third party, except where such interests are overridden by the interests or fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subject, particularly if the data subject is a child.


1.4 Processing of Special Categories of Personal Data

The processing of special categories of personal data (e.g., health data) within the meaning of Art. 9 Para. 1 GDPR is lawful in particular according to Art. 9 Para. 2 GDPR if one of the following conditions applies:

  • There is explicit consent from the person
  • Processing is necessary for the establishment, exercise, or defense of legal claims or whenever courts are acting in their judicial capacity

1.5 Retention Period

The duration of retention of data transferred by you is based on legal retention obligations:

  • Tax law retention: 10 years for booking documents, invoices, annual financial statements (§ 147 AO)
  • Commercial law retention: 6-10 years for business letters and commercial books (§ 257 HGB)
  • Contractual data: Duration of contractual relationship plus legal retention periods
  • Marketing data: Until revocation of consent

1.6 Disclosure of Data to Third Parties

Data transmitted as part of the contractual relationship will only be disclosed to third parties (Art. 4 No. 10 GDPR) if you have expressly given your consent (Art. 4 No. 11 GDPR) or if disclosure is necessary for contract fulfillment or legal obligations. Consent can be revoked informally at any time. Data collected through website visits is only collected by third parties explicitly named below.


1.7 Automated Decision-Making and Profiling

Automated decision-making or profiling regarding personal data within the meaning of Art. 22 GDPR does not take place.


1.8 Data Security

The operator ensures the security of data according to Art. 32 GDPR, taking into account the principle of proportionality through appropriate technical measures.

SSL/TLS Encryption:
In accordance with the legal regulation according to § 13 Para. 7 TMG, this site uses SSL encryption, which can be recognized by a lock symbol in the address bar of your browser. Transmitted data cannot be read by third parties when SSL encryption is activated. This is generally 256-bit encryption. If your browser does not support 256-bit encryption, we use 128-bit v3 technology instead.

Whether a single page of our website is transmitted encrypted can be recognized by the closed display of the key or lock symbol in the lower status bar of your browser.

We also use appropriate technical and organizational security measures (TOM) to protect your data against accidental or intentional manipulation, partial or complete loss, destruction, or unauthorized access by third parties. Our security measures are continuously improved in accordance with technological developments.


1.9 Reporting Data Breaches

Should a data breach unexpectedly occur, the competent supervisory authority will be notified in accordance with Art. 33 GDPR, and the data subject in accordance with Art. 34 GDPR.


2. Data Collection During Website Visits

2.1 Hosting and Technical Infrastructure

netcup GmbH (Web Hosting)

For the operation of our website and provision of our technical infrastructure, we use hosting and server services from netcup GmbH.

Service Provider:
netcup GmbH
Emmy-Noether-Straße 10
76131 Karlsruhe
Germany

Data Protection Officer:
ANEXIA Internetdienstleistungs GmbH
Feldkirchner Straße 140
9020 Klagenfurt, Austria

Server Location:
The servers are located exclusively in data centers in Germany. No transmission of your data to third countries outside the EU/EEA takes place.

Processed Data (Server Log Files):

Each time you access our website, the following data is automatically transmitted to our server by your browser and stored in server log files:

  • IP address of the requesting device
  • Date and time of access
  • Name and URL of the retrieved file
  • Website from which access is made (referrer URL)
  • Browser used and its version
  • Operating system of the access device
  • Internet service provider
  • HTTP status codes
  • Transferred data volume

Purpose of Processing:

  • Provision and display of the website
  • Ensuring smooth connection establishment
  • Ensuring comfortable use of the website
  • Ensuring system security and stability
  • Evaluation of system security and technical administration
  • Optimization of website performance
  • Abuse detection and defense against attacks

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest)

Our legitimate interest lies in the provision and proper operation of our website and ensuring the security of our IT systems.

Data Processing Agreement:
netcup processes the above data on our behalf as a data processor according to Art. 28 GDPR. We have concluded a data processing agreement with netcup that meets the data protection requirements of the GDPR and ensures that netcup processes data exclusively according to our instructions.

Security and Certification:

  • netcup is ISO/IEC 27001 (Information Security Management System) certified
  • Data centers operated with 100% green electricity from renewable energy
  • Physical and technical security measures according to state-of-the-art technology

Retention Period: Server log files are automatically deleted after 14 days, unless they are still required for the purposes mentioned above (e.g., defense against legal claims, investigation of security incidents).

Further Information: https://www.netcup.com/de/kontakt/datenschutzerklaerung


Amazon CloudFront (CDN)

We use Amazon CloudFront, a Content Delivery Network (CDN) from Amazon Web Services EMEA SARL, 38 Avenue John F. Kennedy, L-1855 Luxembourg ("AWS").

Functionality:
CloudFront is a globally distributed network of servers that delivers content from our website faster to users by providing it from a server near you. Although our main servers are located in Germany, static content (images, CSS, JavaScript, HTML) is delivered via CloudFront.

Data Processing:
When using CloudFront, the following data is processed:

  • IP address
  • Browser type and version
  • Operating system
  • Referrer URL
  • Date and time of request
  • Transferred data volume

This data is used exclusively for providing and optimizing the service and is not processed for other purposes.

Data Location:
Your requests may be forwarded to CloudFront Edge Locations worldwide, including outside the EU. AWS is certified under the EU-US Data Privacy Framework.

Data Processing Agreement: A data processing agreement has been concluded with AWS according to Art. 28 GDPR.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest in fast and reliable provision)

Retention Period: Log data is deleted after 365 days

Further Information: https://aws.amazon.com/privacy/


2.2 Cookies and Tracking Technologies

General Cookie Use

This website uses cookies and similar tracking technologies to recognize its visitors, analyze the use of our website, and improve our offering. Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device and contain certain information.

Legal Basis:
The use of cookies is based on your consent according to Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR in conjunction with § 25 Para. 1 TTDSG. Consent can be revoked at any time with effect for the future via our cookie settings.

Cookie Management:
You can prevent the storage of cookies in the settings of your browser or delete already stored cookies. Please note that deactivating cookies may limit the functionality of our website.


Google Consent Mode v2

We use Google Consent Mode v2 to transmit your cookie preferences to Google services. This allows the tracking behavior of Google services to be adapted to your consent decisions. If you do not consent to certain tracking categories, the corresponding Google services will be operated in restricted mode or deactivated.


Categories of Cookies

Technically Necessary Cookies:
These cookies are absolutely necessary for the operation of the website and cannot be deactivated. They enable basic functions such as page navigation, access to protected areas, and storage of session information.

  • Retention Period: Session to 30 days
  • Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest)

Analytics Cookies:
These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website by anonymously collecting and analyzing information. See 4.1.

  • Retention Period: Up to 24 months
  • Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent)

Marketing Cookies:
These cookies are used to make advertising more relevant to you and measure the effectiveness of our advertising campaigns. See 4.2.

  • Retention Period: Up to 24 months
  • Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent)

3. Data Processing When Using Our Services

3.1 Registration and User Account

Registration is required to use some of the services offered. The data you enter in the input mask will be collected and stored. Data will not be disclosed to third parties unless this is necessary for the execution of the contractual relationship. You can change or delete the data at any time. After deletion of data, the service can no longer be offered to you unless you register again.

Processed Data:

  • First and last name
  • Email address
  • Password (stored encrypted)
  • Profile information (depending on user type)
  • Time of registration
  • Date of birth
  • IP address at the time of registration
  • Login data and usage behavior

In addition to the data you enter, the IP address and date and time information of the registration are also stored. The storage of IP data serves to prevent abuse and investigate criminal offenses.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (contract performance)

Retention Period: Until account deletion or legal retention obligations


3.2 Profile Creation

Musician Profiles:

Musicians can create public profiles with the following information:

  • Artist name / band name
  • Music genre and repertoire
  • Description and biography
  • Photos and videos
  • Audio samples
  • Availability and prices
  • Reviews and references
  • Location / service area

Host Profiles:

Hosts can create profiles with the following information:

  • Name / organization
  • Event type
  • Location
  • Preferences and requirements

Public Nature of Profiles:
Profile information is partially or fully publicly visible. You decide when creating which information should be publicly visible.

Legal Basis:

  • Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (contract performance)
  • Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent for public display)

3.3 Booking Requests and Communication

Data Sharing for Booking Requests:

When you make a booking request to a musician via our platform, the following data is shared with the requested musician:

Contact Data:

  • First and last name
  • Email address
  • Phone number (if provided)

Event Data:

  • Desired date and time
  • Event location/city
  • Type of event
  • Expected number of guests
  • Budget / price expectations (optional)
  • Special requests

Message History:

  • All messages exchanged via our platform

Responsibility:
The requested musician becomes an independent controller for this data through data sharing. SofaConcerts acts as an intermediary platform. Musicians process your data independently for quote preparation, contract processing, and concert performance.

Legal Basis:

  • Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (performance of pre-contractual measures)
  • Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent through sending the request)

Retention Period by Musicians:
Musicians store your data for the duration of the request and, in case of booking, for the contract duration plus legal retention periods (6-10 years for tax and commercial law purposes).


3.4 Processing and Monitoring User Communication

We are authorized to intervene in data communication between users of the platform if laws are violated through published content (e.g., deletion of insults) and if contact or contract conclusion between customers fails.

For fraud prevention, platform development, and customer service purposes, we may review, scan, or analyze user communication. As part of our fraud prevention measures, we scan messages to mask contact data, for example. The results of reviews are used exclusively to ensure compliance with our terms of use and improve our service, and are not sold or re-marketed to third parties.

Use of AI-Powered Analysis Tools:

For effective abuse detection and platform security improvement, we use AI-powered analysis tools (see Section 7.2 ChatGPT API). These enable:

  • Automatic real-time detection and masking of contact data
  • Identification of inappropriate content
  • Detection of spam and fraudulent patterns
  • Translation of content for international users

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest)

The basis for these activities is SofaConcerts' legitimate interest in ensuring compliance with applicable laws and our terms of use, preventing fraud, promoting the security of all platform users, and ensuring and improving the best execution of our service.


3.5 Consent to Contact

The user agrees that they may be contacted via the contact information they provided (e.g., phone, email) if a problem occurs in the booking process. Contact is made exclusively to simplify the user's booking process. There is no contact for advertising purposes.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (contract performance)


3.6 Image Upload

Images uploaded by you are stored by us and can be displayed to other registered users. Transfer to other third parties does not take place unless you have expressly consented to it. You have the right to change, delete, or revoke consent for your uploaded images at any time.

Storage with Amazon Web Services (AWS S3):

Uploaded images are stored on Amazon Web Services (AWS) servers. We use the Amazon S3 (Simple Storage Service) for storing image and media files.

Service Provider:
Amazon Web Services EMEA SARL
38 Avenue John F. Kennedy
L-1855 Luxembourg

Data Processing:

When you upload images, these files are stored on AWS S3 servers along with the following metadata:

  • Image file (JPEG, PNG, etc.)
  • File name
  • File size
  • Upload time
  • User ID (for assignment)

Server Location:
Images are stored on AWS servers in the EU (primarily Frankfurt/Germany). In exceptional cases, data may also be stored on servers outside the EU. AWS is certified under the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and thus provides guarantees for compliance with European data protection standards.

Data Processing Agreement:
AWS processes your image data on our behalf as a data processor according to Art. 28 GDPR. We have concluded a data processing agreement with AWS that ensures AWS processes data exclusively according to our instructions and takes appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your data.

Access and Delivery:
Stored images are delivered to users via Amazon CloudFront (CDN) to ensure fast loading times (see Section 2.1).

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (contract performance)

Retention Period: Until deletion by the user

Further Information: https://aws.amazon.com/privacy/


3.7 Comment and Review Function

Users have the opportunity to leave comments on other users' profiles and images and submit reviews for booked concerts. To prevent abuse and investigate criminal offenses, IP addresses and date and time information are stored with comments and reviews. Comments can be deleted by the user. Reviews can be deleted upon request by SofaConcerts.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (contract performance) and lit. f (legitimate interest)

Retention Period: Until deletion by the user or upon request


3.8 Contact Form

When using the contact form offered on these pages, the information you enter and attached files are transmitted and stored for the purpose of responding to your inquiry. Data is not disclosed to third parties.

Legal Basis:

  • Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest)
  • Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR for contract inquiries

Retention Period: Until complete processing of your inquiry, then according to legal retention obligations


3.9 Job Applications

During the application process, personal data such as name, address, phone number, and email address are stored in the applicant database. Furthermore, application documents (cover letter, CV, certificates, etc.) are recorded and stored.

Your data will only be evaluated, processed, or forwarded internally as part of the application process. Applicant data can also only be viewed by HR staff and those responsible for selection. Data is not disclosed to third parties in any way.

In case of a successful application, the application data will be transferred to the personnel file. The remaining applicant data will be stored for a maximum of 6 months after the application process ends.

You have the option at any time to revoke consent and have the applicant data deleted. An informal email to our team is sufficient for this.

Legal Basis:

  • Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (pre-contractual measures)
  • § 26 BDSG

Retention Period: 6 months after conclusion of the application process


4. Analytics Tools and Advertising

4.1 Website Analysis

Google Analytics 4

This website uses Google Analytics 4 (GA4), a web analytics service from Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland ("Google"). Google Analytics uses cookies and similar technologies that enable analysis of your use of the website.

Properties Used:

  • G-PKXS4T63Z5
  • G-S6NDNVXFKF

User ID Tracking:
When you are logged into your account, we use your anonymized user ID (person_uuid) to analyze your usage across devices and sessions. This enables us to better understand your usage habits across multiple visits and devices.

Google Consent Mode v2:
We use Google Consent Mode v2 to adapt the tracking behavior of Google Analytics to your cookie settings. Depending on your consent, data is collected in restricted mode or fully.

IP Anonymization:
IP anonymization is activated so that your IP address is shortened by Google within member states of the European Union or other parties to the Agreement on the European Economic Area beforehand. Only in exceptional cases will the full IP address be transmitted to a Google server and shortened there.

Integration with Google Ads:
Google Analytics is linked to Google Ads to measure the performance of our advertising campaigns and create remarketing lists.

Data Processing:
Google will use this information on behalf of SofaConcerts to evaluate your use of the website, compile reports on website activity, and provide other services related to website activity and internet usage.

Data Transfer to the USA:
Google is certified under the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and thereby provides a guarantee to comply with European data protection law.

Data Processing Agreement: A data processing agreement has been concluded with Google.

Opt-Out:
You can prevent the collection and processing of your data by Google by downloading and installing the browser plugin available at the following link: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent)

Retention Period: Up to 24 months

Further Information: https://policies.google.com/privacy


Hotjar

We use Hotjar Ltd., Level 2, St Julians Business Centre, 3, Elia Zammit Street, St Julians STJ 1000, Malta, to better understand the needs of our users and optimize the offering and experience on this website.

Functionality:
Using Hotjar's technology, we get a better understanding of our users' experiences (e.g., how much time users spend on which pages, which links they click, what they like and dislike, etc.).

Processed Data:
Hotjar works with cookies and other technologies to collect data about the behavior of our users and their devices:

  • IP address (only captured and stored in anonymized form during your website use)
  • Screen size
  • Mouse clicks
  • Device type (Unique Device Identifiers)
  • Information about the browser used
  • Location (country only)
  • Preferred language

Hotjar stores this information on our behalf in a pseudonymized user profile. Hotjar is contractually prohibited from selling data collected on our behalf.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent)

Retention Period: 365 days

Further Information: https://www.hotjar.com/legal/policies/privacy/


4.2 Advertising Services

Google Ads & AdSense

We use Google Ads and Google AdSense from Google Ireland Limited to advertise our services and display ads on selected pages.

Google Ads:
We use Google Ads to display advertisements in Google search and the Google Display Network. When you click on one of our ads, a conversion cookie is set to measure the success of our advertising campaigns.

Google AdSense (Blog):
On selected pages, we use Google AdSense to display personalized advertising. Google uses cookies to display ads based on your previous visits to our website or other websites.

Remarketing:
We use Google Ads' remarketing function to show visitors to our website targeted advertising later when they visit other websites in the Google Display Network.

Data Transfer to the USA: Google is certified under the EU-US Data Privacy Framework.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent)

Retention Period: Cookies up to 24 months

Opt-Out: https://adssettings.google.com/

Further Information: https://policies.google.com/privacy


Facebook Pixel

We use the "Facebook Pixel" from Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Dublin 2, Ireland ("Meta"). With the help of Facebook Pixel, we can identify visitors to our website as a target audience for displaying ads (so-called "Facebook Ads"). The Facebook Pixel enables us to:

  • Measure the effectiveness of our Facebook ads
  • Create audiences for ads (Custom Audiences)
  • Conduct remarketing campaigns
  • Perform conversion tracking

Data Processing:
When you visit our website and the Facebook Pixel is activated, your browser establishes a direct connection to Meta's servers. The content of the pixel is transmitted by Meta directly to your browser and integrated into the website by it. Meta thereby receives information that you have visited our website and can associate this information with your Facebook account if you are logged into Facebook.

Data Transfer to the USA: Meta is certified under the EU-US Data Privacy Framework.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent)

Retention Period: Cookies up to 180 days

Further Information: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/explanation


TikTok Analytics

We use TikTok Analytics, an analytics tool from TikTok Technology Limited, 10 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin, D02 T380, Ireland, or TikTok Inc., 5800 Bristol Parkway, Suite 100, Culver City, CA 90230, USA.

Functionality:
TikTok Analytics uses cookies and similar technologies to analyze the use of our website and measure the effectiveness of our TikTok advertising campaigns. Information about your use of the website (including your IP address) is transmitted to TikTok servers and stored there.

Purposes of Use:

  • Measuring the performance of our TikTok ads
  • Creating Custom Audiences for targeted advertising
  • Analysis of user behavior on our website

Data Transfer:
Your data may be transferred to TikTok servers in the USA and other countries outside the EU. TikTok has committed to complying with the EU-US Data Privacy Framework.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent)

Retention Period: Cookies up to 13 months

Further Information: https://www.tiktok.com/legal/privacy-policy


Pinterest Tag

We use the Pinterest Tag from Pinterest Europe Ltd., Palmerston House, 2nd Floor, Fenian Street, Dublin 2, Ireland.

Functionality:
The Pinterest Tag is a code snippet integrated into our website that enables Pinterest to collect information about the use of our website. When you visit our website and are logged into Pinterest, Pinterest can associate your visit with your Pinterest account.

Purposes of Use:

  • Measuring the effectiveness of our Pinterest ads
  • Creating audiences for Pinterest advertising
  • Conversion tracking
  • Remarketing

Data Transfer to the USA: Your data may be transferred to Pinterest servers in the USA.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent)

Retention Period: Cookies up to 365 days

Opt-Out: https://www.pinterest.de/settings/

Further Information: https://policy.pinterest.com/en/privacy-policy


5. Social Media and Content Integrations

5.1 Video and Audio Services

YouTube

Our website uses plugins from the Google-operated site YouTube (YouTube, LLC, 901 Cherry Ave., San Bruno, CA 94066, USA). When you visit one of our pages equipped with a YouTube plugin, a connection to YouTube servers is established. The YouTube server is informed which of our pages you have visited.

If you are logged into your YouTube account, you enable YouTube to associate your browsing behavior directly with your personal profile. You can prevent this by logging out of your YouTube account.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest)

Further Information: https://policies.google.com/privacy


Vimeo

Plugins from Vimeo.com are used on our website, which is operated by Vimeo LLC, 555 West 18th Street, New York, New York 10011, USA. When you visit web pages of our internet presence provided with such a plugin, a connection to Vimeo servers is established and the plugin is displayed on the web page by notification to your browser.

If you are logged in as a member of Vimeo, Vimeo assigns this information to your personal user account.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest)

Further Information: https://vimeo.com/privacy


SoundCloud

Plugins from the social network SoundCloud (SoundCloud Limited, Berners House, 47-48 Berners Street, London W1T 3NF, United Kingdom) are integrated on our pages. You can recognize SoundCloud plugins by the SoundCloud logo on the affected pages.

When you visit our pages, after activating the plugin, a direct connection is established between your browser and the SoundCloud server. SoundCloud thereby receives information that you have visited our page with your IP address.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest)

Further Information: https://soundcloud.com/pages/privacy


Spotify

Features of the music service Spotify are integrated on our pages. Provider is Spotify AB, Birger Jarlsgatan 61, 113 56 Stockholm in Sweden. You can recognize Spotify plugins by the green logo on our page.

When visiting our pages, a direct connection can be established between your browser and the Spotify server via the plugin. Spotify thereby receives information that you have visited our page with your IP address.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest)

Further Information: https://www.spotify.com/legal/privacy-policy/


Bandcamp

Features of the music service Bandcamp are integrated on our pages. Provider is Bandcamp (operated by Songtradr Inc., 1840 Century Park East, Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90067, USA).

Functionality:
Musicians can embed Bandcamp players in their profiles to present audio samples of their music. When you visit a page with an embedded Bandcamp player, a direct connection is established between your browser and Bandcamp servers.

Data Processing:
When loading the Bandcamp player, the following data is transmitted to Bandcamp:

  • IP address of the visitor
  • Browser type and version
  • Operating system
  • Date and time of access
  • Referrer URL (which page you came from)
  • Music tracks played

Bandcamp thereby receives information that you have visited our page with your IP address and which music tracks you have played.

Interaction with Bandcamp Account:
If you are logged into Bandcamp, Bandcamp can associate your listening behavior directly with your Bandcamp profile. You can prevent this by logging out of your Bandcamp account before visiting our page.

Purpose:

  • Presentation of music and audio samples
  • Enabling music playback
  • Promotion of musicians

Data Transfer to the USA:
Your data may be transferred to Bandcamp servers in the USA. Bandcamp has implemented appropriate data protection measures to ensure compliance with international data protection standards.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest)

Our legitimate interest lies in providing an attractive platform for musicians and the ability to offer audio samples directly on our website.

Further Information: https://bandcamp.com/privacy


5.2 Social Login

Facebook Login

We offer you the option to register on our page via Facebook Connect with your Facebook account. Additional registration is not required.

Data Processing:
For registration, you will be redirected to the Facebook page, where you can log in with your usage data. This links your Facebook profile and our service. Through the link, we automatically receive the following data from Meta:

  • Public profile information (name, profile picture)
  • Email address
  • Facebook ID

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent) and lit. b (contract performance)

Further Information: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/explanation


Google Login

We offer you the option to log in to our platform with your Google account ("Sign in with Google"). Provider is Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland.

Data Processing:
When you log in via Google, you will be redirected to a Google page. After successful authentication, we receive the following information from Google:

  • Name
  • Email address
  • Google ID
  • Profile picture (if released)

We use this information to create your user account or log you in.

Data Transfer to the USA: Google is certified under the EU-US Data Privacy Framework.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent) and lit. b (contract performance)

Further Information: https://policies.google.com/privacy


5.3 Other Integrations

Google Web Fonts

External fonts, Google Fonts, are used on these web pages. Google Fonts is a service of Google Ireland Limited. The integration of these web fonts is done through a server call, usually a Google server in the USA. This transmits to the server which of our web pages you have visited. Your IP address is also stored by Google.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest in uniform display)

Further Information: https://policies.google.com/privacy


Google Maps

This website uses the "Google Maps API" from Google Ireland Limited for visual presentation of map material. When using Google Maps, Google also collects, processes, and uses data on the use of Maps functions by website visitors.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest)

Further Information:
https://www.google.com/intl/en/help/terms_maps/
https://policies.google.com/privacy


6. Payment Service Providers

Mangopay

When paying by credit card (MasterCard/Visa), invoice, and/or PayPal, we forward your payment data to MANGOPAY S.A., 59 Boulevard Royal, L-2449 Luxembourg for payment processing.

Payment Methods Offered via Mangopay:

  • Credit Card: MasterCard, Visa
  • Invoice: Purchase on invoice with payment term
  • PayPal: Payment via your PayPal account

Data Processing:
For the use of these payment services, Mangopay collects, stores, and processes your personal data such as:

  • Name and address
  • Email address
  • Payment information (credit card data, bank connection, PayPal account)
  • Transaction data
  • Invoice data
  • Documents for user validation

Responsibility:
Mangopay is responsible as an independent controller for the protection and handling of data collected by Mangopay. Processing is done according to Mangopay's privacy policies.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (contract performance)

The transfer of your data to Mangopay is necessary for payment processing and is done to fulfill the purchase contract.

Further Information: https://www.mangopay.com/terms/privacy-policy/


7. Other Services We Use

7.1 Google Workspace

We use Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) from Google Ireland Limited for internal business processes. Google Workspace includes the following services:

Gmail:
For email communication with customers, musicians, and business partners. Emails are stored on Google servers in the EU.

Google Drive:
For storage and management of documents, files, and other business records. Storage primarily occurs on servers in the EU.

Google Calendar:
For managing appointments, events, and concert bookings.

Google Docs (Docs, Sheets, Slides):
For creating and editing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.

Data Processing:
When using these services, personal data (email addresses, names, communication content, booking data) may be transmitted to Google and processed on Google servers.

Data Processing Agreement:
A data processing agreement has been concluded with Google according to Art. 28 GDPR. Google processes data exclusively according to our instructions.

Data Location:
Data is primarily stored in data centers within the EU. Google is certified under the EU-US Data Privacy Framework.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest in efficient business operations) and lit. b (contract performance)

Retention Period: According to our retention guidelines and legal requirements

Further Information: https://workspace.google.com/intl/en/terms/dpa_terms.html


7.2 ChatGPT API (OpenAI)

In some cases, we use the ChatGPT API from OpenAI Ireland Limited, 31 Merrion Square East, Dublin 2, D02 PN86, Ireland, for the following purposes:

Purposes of Use:

  • Customer Service: Answering customer inquiries and support tickets
  • Musician Recommendations: Creating personalized recommendations based on user preferences and booking history
  • Translation: Automatic translation of profile descriptions, comments, and reviews into different languages to enable international platform use
  • Abuse Detection: Automatic analysis of messages, comments, and profile texts to detect violations of our terms of use, particularly:
    • Real-time detection and masking of contact data (email, phone, social media) in messages to prevent platform circumvention
    • Identification of inappropriate content (insults, discrimination)
    • Detection of spam and fraudulent patterns

Data Processing:
When you use the ChatGPT-powered service, your inquiries and relevant context information are sent to the OpenAI API. OpenAI processes this data to generate a response that is sent back to you.

Transmitted Data:

  • Your inquiry/message
  • Context information (e.g., previous messages in the chat)
  • If applicable, information from your profile (music preferences, booking history)

Important Notes:

  • Do not send highly sensitive personal data (payment information, passwords, etc.)
  • OpenAI does not use data transmitted via the API to train their models
  • Data is deleted from OpenAI servers after 30 days

Data Transfer to the USA:
OpenAI may process data on servers in the USA. OpenAI has committed to complying with appropriate data protection standards.

Legal Basis: Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b (contract performance)

Retention Period: 30 days at OpenAI, according to retention guidelines with us

Further Information: https://openai.com/policies/privacy-policy


7.3 Twilio (Voice Services & SMS)

We use Twilio Ireland Limited, 3 Dublin Landings, North Wall Quay, Dublin 1, Ireland, for telephony services (voice calls) and SMS sending.

Functionality:
Twilio enables us to:

  • Mediate voice calls between users and musicians
  • Send SMS notifications (e.g., booking confirmations, reminders)

Processed Data:

  • Phone numbers (caller and callee)
  • Date and time of call/SMS
  • Call duration
  • Connection metadata
  • SMS content

Consent Before Using the Phone Function:

To use the phone function, you must first consent to a separate privacy policy for the phone function. You are expressly informed that:

  • All phone calls are recorded
  • Recordings are automatically saved as an audio file in your chat history with the respective conversation partner (musician/host)

Without your consent, you cannot use the phone function.

Purpose of Recording:

The recordings serve for:

  • Documentation of contract-relevant agreements (e.g., price agreements, schedule changes, special requests)
  • Legal certainty in case of disputes
  • Traceability of booking details

Storage in Chat:
After each phone call, the recording is automatically saved as an audio file in your chat history. Both conversation participants (musician/host) have access to this recording in their respective chat.

Legal Basis:

  • Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. a GDPR (consent) for recording and storing phone conversations in chat
  • Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. b GDPR (contract performance) for documenting contract-relevant content
  • Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR (legitimate interest) for quality assurance and legal certainty

Withdrawal of Consent:
You can revoke your consent to use the phone function at any time with effect for the future. Already recorded and stored conversations in the chat remain unaffected unless legal retention obligations exist.

Data Transfer:
Twilio may process data on servers in the USA and other countries. Twilio is certified under the EU-US Data Privacy Framework.

Data Processing Agreement: A data processing agreement has been concluded with Twilio according to Art. 28 GDPR.

Retention Period: Connection data is stored for 12 months

Further Information: https://www.twilio.com/legal/privacy


8. Your Rights as a Data Subject

You can request information about the personal data stored about you at any time and free of charge. Your rights also include confirmation, correction, restriction, blocking, and deletion of such data, provision of a copy of the data in a format suitable for transmission, as well as revocation of granted consent and objection. Legal retention obligations remain unaffected.

Your rights arise in particular from the following provisions of the GDPR:

8.1 Right to Withdraw Consent (Art. 7 Para. 3 GDPR)

You have the right to withdraw granted consent at any time with effect for the future. The lawfulness of processing carried out until withdrawal remains unaffected.

8.2 Transparent Information (Art. 12 GDPR)

You have the right to transparent information, communication, and modalities for exercising your rights.

8.3 Duty to Provide Information When Collecting (Art. 13 GDPR)

You have the right to information when collecting personal data from the data subject.

8.4 Duty to Provide Information for Third-Party Collection (Art. 14 GDPR)

You have the right to information if personal data was not collected from the data subject.

8.5 Right of Access (Art. 15 GDPR)

You have the right to access your stored personal data, confirmation, and provision of a copy of personal data.

8.6 Right to Rectification (Art. 16 GDPR)

You have the right to request correction of inaccurate or completion of incomplete personal data.

8.7 Right to Erasure (Art. 17 GDPR)

You have the right to erasure ("right to be forgotten") of your personal data, provided no legal retention obligations or other exceptions apply.

8.8 Right to Restriction of Processing (Art. 18 GDPR)

You have the right to request restriction of processing of your personal data.

8.9 Notification Obligation (Art. 19 GDPR)

You have the right to notification in connection with rectification or erasure of personal data or restriction of processing.

8.10 Right to Data Portability (Art. 20 GDPR)

You have the right to receive personal data concerning you in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format and to transmit this data to another controller.

8.11 Right to Object (Art. 21 GDPR)

You have the right, for reasons arising from your particular situation, to object at any time to the processing of personal data concerning you based on Art. 6 Para. 1 lit. f GDPR.

8.12 Automated Decision-Making (Art. 22 GDPR)

You have the right not to be subject to a decision based solely on automated processing, including profiling.

8.13 Right to Lodge a Complaint with a Supervisory Authority (Art. 77 GDPR)

You have the right to lodge a complaint with a data protection supervisory authority, particularly in the member state of your habitual residence, place of work, or place of alleged infringement.


Exercising Your Rights

To exercise your rights (except Art. 77 GDPR), please contact the office named under "Controller under the GDPR":

SofaConcerts GmbH
Email: support@sofaconcerts.org
Phone: +49-40-88-177-500


9. Competent Supervisory Authority

Hamburg Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information

Klosterwall 6 (Block C)
20095 Hamburg

Tel.: 040 / 428 54 - 4040
Fax: 040 / 428 54 - 4000
Email: mailbox@datenschutz.hamburg.de
Website: https://datenschutz-hamburg.de


Changes to This Privacy Policy

We reserve the right to change this privacy policy to adapt it to changed legal situations or when changes to our services occur. The new privacy policy will then apply to future visits.


Last updated: February 2026