Cookie Policy

This Cookie Policy explains how the SMAAT platform uses cookies and similar technologies, such as local storage, on our website (smaat.eu) to enhance functionality and user experience. Cookies and local storage support services like user authentication, research study management, performance analytics, and error tracking. We do not sell your data or use cookies for advertising purposes. This policy is part of our commitment to transparency, as outlined in our Privacy Policy.
Last Updated: April 27, 2025

Cookies are small data files placed on your device when you visit our website. They help us recognize your device, store preferences, and improve services. Similar technologies, such as local storage, session storage, or pixel tags, are used for comparable purposes, including error tracking and performance monitoring. For the SMAAT platform, these technologies support features like secure logins, study configuration, and platform optimization.

We use the following types of cookies and similar technologies:

• Necessary Cookies: Essential for the operation of the website, enabling features like user authentication, session management, and secure data transmission. These cannot be disabled.
• Functional Cookies: Enhance user experience by remembering preferences, such as language settings or study filters.
• Analytics Cookies and Technologies: Collect anonymized data on how users interact with the platform (e.g., page visits, feature usage, error occurrences) to improve performance, usability, and reliability. For example, we use Sentry to track errors and performance issues, which may use local storage for temporary data. These are optional and require your consent.
• Temporary (Session) Cookies: Deleted when you close your browser, used for temporary session data.
• Permanent Cookies: Stored for up to two years to retain settings or track usage trends, unless you clear them earlier.

We do not use cookies for advertising or share data with third parties for marketing purposes.

Cookies and similar technologies on the SMAAT platform serve the following purposes:

• Service Delivery: Enable core functionalities like account access, study creation, and data visualization.
• User Experience: Personalize your interaction by saving preferences and streamlining navigation.
• Performance Optimization: Analyze usage patterns and errors (e.g., via Sentry) to enhance platform speed, reliability, and feature development.
• Security: Protect your data with secure session management and fraud prevention measures.

We use cookies and similar technologies based on the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR):

• Consent (Art. 6(1)(a)): Analytics technologies (e.g., Sentry for error tracking) and functional cookies are used only with your explicit consent, obtained via our cookie banner.
• Legitimate Interests (Art. 6(1)(f)): Necessary cookies are used to ensure the platform’s operation and security, balanced against your rights.

You can withdraw consent or manage preferences at any time through our cookie settings or browser settings.

You can control cookies and similar technologies via:

• Our Cookie Banner: Choose which optional technologies (e.g., analytics, including Sentry) to allow when you first visit the platform.
• Browser Settings: Disable or delete cookies and local storage in your browser, though this may affect functionality (e.g., login persistence). Instructions are available for browsers like Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.
• Opt-Out Platforms: Use tools like YourOnlineChoices for additional control.

Note that disabling necessary cookies may limit access to core features, such as study management or data synchronization.

We minimize third-party cookies and technologies, using them only for essential integrations, such as:

• Single Sign-On (SSO): Cookies from providers like Google or Facebook for secure authentication, subject to their privacy policies (e.g., Google Privacy Policy).
• Analytics and Error Tracking: Tools like Sentry (for error and performance monitoring) and Matomo (for analytics), which may use local storage or anonymized data collection. When hosted on our servers, these tools ensure data control. If using Sentry’s cloud service, data is processed per Sentry’s Privacy Policy.

We do not share data with third parties for advertising or data monetization.

Cookies and similar technologies are retained as follows:

• Session Cookies: Deleted when you close your browser.
• Permanent Cookies: Stored for up to two years, unless you delete them or withdraw consent.

You can clear cookies and local storage anytime via your browser settings to reset retention periods.

Under GDPR, you have rights related to cookies and similar technologies, including:

• Access: Request details about cookies or storage used on your device.
• Rectification: Correct inaccurate data linked to cookies.
• Erasure: Request deletion of cookie or storage data.
• Objection: Object to non-essential cookie usage.
• Withdraw Consent: Revoke consent for optional cookies and technologies.

To exercise these rights, contact us at info@open-lab.online. See our Privacy Policy for more details.

We may update this policy to reflect changes in our cookie practices or legal requirements. Updates will be posted here, and significant changes will be communicated via email or a website banner. Check this page regularly for the latest information.