A cookie is a small data record that is saved on your end device and contains data such as personal page settings and login information, for example. These data records are produced and sent to you by the web server which you connected to using your web browser. We generally use cookies to analyse interest in our web pages and to make our web pages more user-friendly. You can always access our web pages without enabling cookies. If you want to use our web pages in full and in the most convenient way possible, however, you should accept cookies that allow you to use certain functions or make the website easier to use. You can find information on the purpose of the cookies we use in the overview below.

By using our web pages with your browser set to accept cookies, you agree to the use of these cookies. Most browsers are set by default to accept all cookies. However, you can adjust your browser settings in such a way that cookies are displayed before being saved, only certain cookies are accepted or declined, or cookies are declined as standard.

We would like to remind you that changes to the settings always only relate to the browser you change them in. If you use various browsers or change your end device, you will have to change the settings again. You can also delete cookies from your data storage device at any time. Please refer to your web browser’s help function for information on cookie settings, how to change these settings and how to delete cookies.

An explanation of the most frequently used types of cookies is provided in the following for your reference:

1.    Session cookies

While you are active on a web page, a session cookie is temporarily stored in your computer’s memory. This contains a session ID so, for example, you do not have to log in again for each page you access. Session cookies are deleted when you log off, or cease to be valid as soon as your session has automatically expired.

2.    Persistent or stored cookies

Persistent or stored cookies save a file on your computer until the scheduled expiration date. These cookies enable web pages to remember your information and settings the next time you visit. This makes it easier and quicker to access the web pages; for example, there is no need to re-adjust the language settings for our portal each time you visit. When the expiry date elapses, the cookies are automatically deleted when you visit the web page that created them.

3.    Third-party cookies

Third-party cookies come from providers other than the operator of the web page. They may be used for example to collect information for advertising or generate custom content and web statistics.

4.    Flash cookies

Flash cookies are stored on your computer as data elements of websites that use Adobe Flash Player. Flash cookies are not time-limited.