1. Introduction
Rybnik University Education Network (“we,” “us,” “our”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website RybnikUniversity.edu.pl (the “Website”) and use our services.
This policy applies to all users worldwide, including those in the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), United Kingdom (UK), California (USA), and other jurisdictions with specific privacy regulations.
Please read this Privacy Policy carefully. By using the Website, you consent to the practices described in this policy. If you do not agree with this policy, please do not use our Website.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Information You Provide Directly
We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide when you:
Contact Instructors:
- Name and email address
- Phone number (if provided)
- Educational background or learning interests
- Country/location (general)
- Any information you include in your inquiry message
Submit Inquiries Through Contact Forms:
- Name and email address
- Subject of inquiry
- Message content
- Country/location (optional)
Subscribe to Updates (if applicable):
- Email address
- Name (optional)
- Communication preferences
Apply to Become an Instructor:
- Full name and contact information
- Educational credentials and professional background
- CV/Resume
- References and professional contacts
- Any other information you provide in your application
Create an Account (if applicable):
- Username and password
- Email address
- Profile information you choose to provide
2.2 Automatically Collected Information
When you visit our Website, we automatically collect certain information about your device and browsing activity:
Log Data:
- IP address
- Browser type and version
- Operating system
- Referring/exit pages and URLs
- Pages viewed and time spent on pages
- Date and time of visits
- Device type and identifiers
Cookies and Similar Technologies: We use cookies, web beacons, pixels, and similar tracking technologies to enhance your experience and gather information about usage patterns. See Section 6 for detailed information about cookies.
Analytics Data: We use analytics services (such as Google Analytics) to understand how users interact with our Website, including:
- Traffic sources and referral paths
- User behavior and navigation patterns
- Geographic location (country/city level)
- Device and browser information
- Session duration and engagement metrics
2.3 Information from Third Parties
We may receive information about you from third parties:
Social Media Platforms: If you interact with our social media profiles (Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.), we may receive information from those platforms according to their privacy policies.
Analytics Providers: Third-party analytics services provide us with aggregated data about Website usage.
Payment Processors: If we implement platform fees in the future, payment processors may share transaction information with us (though currently, payments are direct between students and instructors).
Instructors: Instructors may share information with us about student inquiries or issues, though they are independent contractors and responsible for their own data handling.
3. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect for the following purposes:
3.1 Providing Our Services
- Facilitate Connections: Connect students with instructors by forwarding inquiry information
- Respond to Inquiries: Answer questions about our platform, services, and instructors
- Account Management: Create, maintain, and secure user accounts (if applicable)
- Process Applications: Review and process instructor applications
- Platform Operation: Operate, maintain, and improve the Website
3.2 Communication
- Service Communications: Send information about the platform, policy updates, or service changes
- Marketing Communications: Send newsletters, updates, and promotional materials (with your consent, where required)
- Instructor Updates: Inform you about new instructors or relevant services
- Support: Respond to your requests, questions, or concerns
3.3 Analytics and Improvement
- Website Analytics: Analyze usage patterns and trends to improve user experience
- Feature Development: Identify needed features and improvements
- Research: Conduct research and analysis about user behavior and preferences
- Testing: A/B test features and communications for optimization
3.4 Security and Legal Compliance
- Fraud Prevention: Detect, prevent, and respond to fraud, abuse, and security threats
- Terms Enforcement: Enforce our Terms of Service and other policies
- Legal Obligations: Comply with applicable laws, regulations, and legal processes
- Rights Protection: Protect our rights, property, safety, and those of our users
3.5 Aggregated Data
- Statistical Analysis: Create aggregated, anonymized statistics about platform usage
- Reporting: Generate reports about platform performance and trends
- Business Intelligence: Inform business decisions and strategy
4. Legal Basis for Processing (GDPR/UK GDPR)
If you are located in the European Union, European Economic Area, or United Kingdom, our legal basis for collecting and using your personal information depends on the data and context:
Consent: You have given clear consent for us to process your personal data for specific purposes (e.g., marketing emails, cookies).
Contract: Processing is necessary to fulfill a contract with you or to take steps at your request before entering into a contract (e.g., facilitating instructor connections).
Legal Obligation: Processing is necessary to comply with legal obligations (e.g., record-keeping requirements, responding to law enforcement).
Legitimate Interests: Processing is necessary for our legitimate interests (such as operating and improving our platform, fraud prevention, security), provided your interests and fundamental rights do not override those interests.
5. How We Share Your Information
We do not sell your personal information. We may share your information in the following limited circumstances:
5.1 With Instructors
When you contact an instructor through our platform, we share your contact information and inquiry details with that instructor so they can respond to your request.
Important: Once shared, instructors are responsible for their own handling of your information. Instructors are independent contractors with their own privacy practices. We recommend reviewing instructor privacy practices directly.
5.2 Service Providers
We may share information with third-party service providers who perform services on our behalf:
Website Hosting: Companies that host our Website and store data Analytics Services: Google Analytics and similar tools that help us understand usage Email Services: Platforms that help us send emails (newsletters, notifications) Security Services: Services that protect against fraud, spam, and abuse Payment Processors: If we implement platform fees (currently not applicable)
These service providers are contractually obligated to protect your information and use it only for specified purposes.
5.3 Legal Requirements and Safety
We may disclose your information if required by law or if we believe in good faith that such disclosure is necessary to:
- Comply with legal obligations, court orders, subpoenas, or government requests
- Enforce our Terms of Service or other agreements
- Protect and defend our rights, property, or safety
- Prevent or investigate possible wrongdoing, fraud, or abuse
- Protect the personal safety of users or the public
- Respond to emergency situations
5.4 Business Transfers
If we are involved in a merger, acquisition, asset sale, bankruptcy, or other business transaction, your information may be transferred as part of that transaction. We will notify you of any such change and the choices you have regarding your information.
5.5 With Your Consent
We may share your information with third parties when you give us explicit consent to do so.
5.6 Aggregated/Anonymous Information
We may share aggregated or anonymized information that does not directly identify you with third parties for research, marketing, analytics, or other purposes.
6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
6.1 What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files placed on your device by websites you visit. They are widely used to make websites work efficiently and provide information to website owners.
6.2 Types of Cookies We Use
Essential Cookies (Strictly Necessary):
- Required for the Website to function properly
- Enable basic features like page navigation and secure areas
- The Website cannot function properly without these cookies
- No consent required as they are essential
Analytics Cookies (Performance):
- Help us understand how visitors use our Website
- Collect aggregated, anonymous information
- Used to improve Website performance and user experience
- Example: Google Analytics
Functional Cookies:
- Remember your preferences and settings
- Enhance functionality and personalization
- Examples: Language preference, region selection
Marketing Cookies (if applicable):
- Track browsing habits to deliver relevant advertising
- Measure effectiveness of marketing campaigns
- May be set by third-party advertisers (with your consent)
6.3 Third-Party Cookies
We may use third-party services that set their own cookies:
Google Analytics: Tracks website usage and provides analytics
Social Media Plugins: If we include social sharing buttons, these platforms may set cookies
- Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc. have their own privacy policies
Video Embedding: If we embed videos (e.g., YouTube), those services may set cookies
6.4 Managing Cookies
Browser Settings: Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through settings. You can:
- Block all cookies
- Accept only certain cookies
- Delete cookies after your browsing session
- Set preferences for specific websites
Blocking Cookies Impact: Note that blocking essential cookies may affect your ability to use certain Website features.
Cookie Preference Center (if implemented): We may provide a cookie consent tool where you can manage your preferences for non-essential cookies.
Do Not Track: Some browsers have “Do Not Track” signals. Currently, there is no industry standard for responding to these signals, but we respect your browser privacy settings.
6.5 Cookie Duration
Session Cookies: Deleted when you close your browser Persistent Cookies: Remain on your device for a set period or until you delete them
7. Your Data Protection Rights
Your rights vary depending on your location. Below are rights applicable under various data protection laws:
7.1 Rights Under GDPR/UK GDPR (EU/EEA/UK Users)
If you are located in the EU, EEA, or UK, you have the following rights:
Right to Access: Request copies of your personal data and information about how we process it.
Right to Rectification: Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete personal data.
Right to Erasure (“Right to be Forgotten”): Request deletion of your personal data under certain circumstances.
Right to Restrict Processing: Request that we limit how we use your personal data under certain circumstances.
Right to Data Portability: Request transfer of your data to another organization or directly to you in a structured, commonly used, machine-readable format.
Right to Object: Object to our processing of your personal data based on legitimate interests or for direct marketing purposes.
Right to Withdraw Consent: If processing is based on consent, you have the right to withdraw consent at any time.
Right to Lodge a Complaint: File a complaint with your local data protection authority (supervisory authority).
7.2 Rights Under CCPA (California, USA Users)
If you are a California resident, you have the following rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA):
Right to Know: Request information about personal information we have collected, used, disclosed, or sold about you in the past 12 months.
Right to Delete: Request deletion of personal information we have collected from you (subject to certain exceptions).
Right to Opt-Out of Sale: We do not sell personal information, but if we did, you would have the right to opt-out.
Right to Non-Discrimination: You have the right not to receive discriminatory treatment for exercising your CCPA rights.
Authorized Agent: You may designate an authorized agent to make requests on your behalf.
7.3 Rights Under Other Privacy Laws
Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have additional rights under local privacy laws. We respect all applicable privacy rights regardless of location.
7.4 Exercising Your Rights
To exercise any of these rights:
Email: privacy@rybnikuniversity.edu.pl
Subject Line: “Data Rights Request – [Your Right]”
Include:
- Your full name
- Email address associated with our platform
- Clear description of your request
- Proof of identity (if needed for security)
Response Time: We will respond to verified requests within:
- 30 days (GDPR/UK GDPR)
- 45 days (CCPA)
- Or as required by applicable law
Verification: We may need to verify your identity before processing requests to protect your privacy and security.
No Fee: We do not charge a fee for exercising your rights unless requests are clearly unfounded, repetitive, or excessive.
8. International Data Transfers
8.1 Our Operations
Rybnik University Education Network as an international platform:
Instructors Worldwide: Instructors operate from various countries globally. When you contact an instructor, your information may be transferred to their location.
Service Providers: Some service providers (hosting, analytics, email services) may be located outside the EU/EEA.
User Location: Users access our Website from all over the world.
8.2 Safeguards for EU/EEA Data
When transferring personal data from the EU/EEA to countries without adequate data protection laws, we implement appropriate safeguards:
Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs): We use European Commission-approved Standard Contractual Clauses with service providers.
Adequacy Decisions: We transfer data to countries recognized by the EU Commission as providing adequate protection.
Other Mechanisms: We may use other legally recognized transfer mechanisms (Binding Corporate Rules, Privacy Shield successors, etc.) as applicable.
8.3 Your Consent
By using our Website and contacting instructors internationally, you acknowledge and consent to the transfer of your information across international borders.
9. Data Retention
9.1 How Long We Keep Data
We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy, unless a longer retention period is required or permitted by law.
Inquiry Data: Retained for up to 2 years after last contact or as long as needed to facilitate potential instructor connections.
Instructor Applications: Retained for up to 3 years to maintain records and consider for future opportunities.
Account Information (if applicable): Retained until you request deletion or account closure, plus any legally required retention period.
Analytics Data: Google Analytics data typically retained for 26 months (their default), or as configured.
Marketing Communications: Retained until you unsubscribe, plus any legally required period.
Legal/Compliance Records: Retained as required by applicable laws and regulations.
9.2 Deletion
When retention periods expire, we securely delete or anonymize personal information so it no longer identifies you.
10. Data Security
10.1 Security Measures
We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction:
Technical Measures:
- SSL/TLS encryption for data transmission (HTTPS)
- Secure server infrastructure with firewalls
- Access controls and authentication
- Regular security assessments and updates
- Encrypted data storage where appropriate
- Secure backup systems
Organizational Measures:
- Employee training on data protection
- Access restricted to authorized personnel only
- Confidentiality agreements with service providers
- Incident response procedures
- Regular security policy reviews
10.2 Limitations
No Absolute Security: No method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. While we strive to protect your information using industry-standard measures, we cannot guarantee absolute security.
Your Responsibility: You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account credentials (if applicable) and should notify us immediately of any unauthorized access.
Instructor Security: Instructors are independent contractors responsible for securing information you share with them directly. We encourage you to discuss data security with instructors.
11. Children’s Privacy
11.1 Age Restriction
Our Website is not intended for children under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18.
11.2 Parental Supervision
If a minor uses our Website, it must be under the supervision and consent of a parent or legal guardian who accepts responsibility for the minor’s use and data.
11.3 If We Learn of Child Data
If we become aware that we have collected personal information from a child under 18 without parental consent, we will take steps to delete that information as quickly as possible.
Parents/Guardians: If you believe your child has provided us with personal information, please contact us at privacy@rybnikuniversity.edu.pl, and we will delete it.
12. Third-Party Websites and Services
12.1 External Links
Our Website may contain links to third-party websites, including:
- Instructor personal websites
- Professional profiles (LinkedIn, ResearchGate)
- Social media platforms
- Payment processors
- Video conferencing services
- Academic or professional organizations
12.2 Not Our Responsibility
We are not responsible for the privacy practices of third-party websites or services. These sites have their own privacy policies that govern their data collection and use.
We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party websites you visit or services you use.
12.3 Instructor Websites
Instructors are independent contractors with their own websites and privacy practices. When you visit an instructor’s website or share information directly with them, their privacy policy applies, not ours.
13. Marketing Communications
13.1 Types of Communications
With appropriate consent (where required), we may send you:
- Newsletter with platform updates and educational content
- Information about new instructors or services
- Tips for using the platform effectively
- Special offers or promotions (if applicable)
13.2 Opt-Out/Unsubscribe
You can opt-out at any time by:
- Clicking the “unsubscribe” link in any marketing email
- Emailing us at info@rybnikuniversity.edu.pl with “Unsubscribe” in the subject
- Adjusting your communication preferences in your account settings (if applicable)
Service Communications: Note that you cannot opt-out of essential service communications (e.g., policy updates, security alerts) as long as you use our Website.
13.3 Processing After Opt-Out
After you unsubscribe, we will stop sending marketing communications but may retain your email on a suppression list to honor your opt-out preference.
14. Your California Privacy Rights
14.1 California Shine the Light Law
California residents may request information about our disclosure of personal information to third parties for their direct marketing purposes.
We do not share personal information with third parties for their direct marketing purposes without your consent.
14.2 CCPA Consumer Rights
See Section 7.2 for detailed CCPA rights.
Contact for CCPA Requests: privacy@rybnikuniversity.edu.pl with “CCPA Request” in the subject line.
14.3 Do Not Sell My Personal Information
We do not sell personal information to third parties. We have not sold personal information in the preceding 12 months.
15. European Data Protection Officer
15.1 Data Protection Officer (if required)
Depending on the volume and nature of data processing, we may be required to appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) under GDPR.
If DPO appointed, contact:
15.2 EU Representative (if required)
If we are required to appoint an EU representative under GDPR Article 27, contact details will be provided here.
16. Changes to This Privacy Policy
16.1 Policy Updates
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices, technology, legal requirements, or other factors.
Effective Date: We will update the “Effective Date” at the top of this policy when changes are made.
Material Changes: If we make material changes that significantly affect your privacy rights, we will provide additional notice through:
- Prominent notice on our Website
- Email to registered users
- Other appropriate communication methods
16.2 Your Acceptance
Continued use of the Website after changes become effective constitutes your acceptance of the updated Privacy Policy.
Review Regularly: We encourage you to review this Privacy Policy periodically to stay informed about how we protect your information.
17. Contact Us
If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our data practices:
Email Contacts:
- Privacy Matters: privacy@rybnikuniversity.edu.pl
- General Inquiries: info@rybnikuniversity.edu.pl
- Data Protection Officer (if applicable): dpo@rybnikuniversity.edu.pl
Subject Line for Privacy Requests: Include “Privacy Request” or “Data Rights Request” in your subject line.
Platform: Website: www.RybnikUniversity.edu.pl
Response Time: We aim to respond to privacy inquiries within 48 business hours and formal data rights requests within legally required timeframes (30-45 days).
18. Supervisory Authority
18.1 EU/EEA/UK Users
If you are located in the EU, EEA, or UK, you have the right to lodge a complaint with your local data protection supervisory authority if you believe we have violated your data protection rights.
Find Your Authority:
- EU: https://edpb.europa.eu/about-edpb/board/members_en
- UK: Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) – https://ico.org.uk
18.2 Other Jurisdictions
If you are in other jurisdictions with data protection authorities, you may have the right to lodge complaints with relevant authorities in your location.
19. Accessibility
We are committed to making this Privacy Policy accessible to all users. If you have difficulty accessing this policy or need it in an alternative format, please contact us at accessibility@rybnikuniversity.edu.pl.
20. Language
The English version of this Privacy Policy is the official and controlling version. Any translations provided are for convenience only. In case of discrepancies between English and translated versions, the English version prevails.
Rybnik University Education Network
RybnikUniversity.edu.pl
We are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal data responsibly in accordance with applicable data protection laws worldwide.
Related Legal Documents:
- Terms of Service – Rules governing use of our platform
- Disclaimer – Important limitations and clarifications
- Cookie Policy – Detailed information about cookies (if separate document)
- E-E-A-T Commitment – Our commitment to quality and trustworthiness
Thank you for trusting Rybnik University Education Network with your personal information. Your privacy matters to us.