Privacy Policy

Purpose of the Privacy Policy

Zoo Zurich AG (hereinafter “Zoo Zurich”) is the operator of the online platform zoo.ch, through which Zoo Zurich offers its products (including tickets, vouchers, gift cards, zoo merchandise, events, seminars, and courses) and customers can purchase them (hereinafter “Platform”), as well as the operator of Zoo Wi-Fi, through which zoo visitors are provided with internet access on the zoo grounds to the extent permitted by technical, operational, and economic constraints. Furthermore, the Zoo Zurich offers certain features via an app (including ticket purchases and annual pass registration). Finally, the Zoo Zurich also processes certain personal data provided by users, customers, or interested parties via telephone or email

Data protection is very important to the Zoo Zurich, and the Zoo Zurich complies with all applicable data protection laws and regulations.

This Privacy Policy outlines how the Zoo Zurich handles personal data and, in particular, explains what personal data the Zoo Zurich processes and for what purposes this data is processed. It also describes how collected personal data can be reviewed, corrected, or deleted.

This Privacy Policy does not apply to any external links that lead to third-party websites. The privacy policies of the respective providers apply to those websites.

This Privacy Policy is an integral part of the Zoo Zurich’s Terms and Conditions, which are available at zoo.ch/agb.

Data Processing When Using the Platform and the Zoo App

1. When visiting the platform/zoo app

When you visit the platform or use the zoo app, the servers temporarily log each visit in a log file. The following data is collected automatically, without any action on the part of the users:

  • IP addresses;

  • Date and time;

  • Log information such as log type, version, the requested action, status codes, or details about the transferred data (e.g., the size of a query or a response);

  • Error messages;

  • Depending on the application, specific information such as message IDs for emails, or—for web access—details about the browser used (user-agent string) or, if applicable, the page from which the visitor arrived at the website.

When you use the zoo app, the following information, among other things, is collected and processed:

  • Device information such as device type, operating system, IP address, language settings, device identifiers, and cookie data.

The data remains on our systems until it is no longer needed for business purposes and until the statutory or contractually specified retention periods expire; it is then automatically deleted. For most data, this period is a maximum of half a year.

This data is generally collected and processed in an anonymized form, without any personal references, for the purpose of enabling the use of the platform or the zoo app (establishing a connection), ensuring long-term system security and stability, optimizing the website, and for internal statistical purposes. The information mentioned above is not linked to or stored alongside personal data.

Only in the event of an attack on the platform’s or Zoo App’s network infrastructure, or if there is suspicion of other unauthorized or abusive use of the platform orZoo App will the IP address be analyzed for investigative and defensive purposes and, if necessary, used in the context of criminal proceedings to identify the users in question and to take civil and criminal action against them.

Finally, when you visit the platform or use the Zoo app, Zoo Zurich uses cookies as well as applications and tools that rely on cookies. In this context, the data described here may also be processed. Further details can be found in the following sections of this Privacy Policy, particularly in the “Cookies” section.

2. When downloading and using the Zoo app

When you download the zoo app, the operators of the relevant app store collect and process the following data:

  • User name;

  • Email address;

  • User’s account number for the relevant app store;

  • Time of download;

  • Payment information, if applicable; and

  • Mobile device ID.

For more information on data processing by app store operators, see:

https://policies.google.com/privacy

https://www.apple.com/chde/legal/privacy/

By downloading the Zoo app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, users have authenticated themselves with the respective app store, for example, using their Apple ID. Apple’s and Google’s privacy policies do not currently fully comply with the requirements of the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Zoo Zurich therefore cannot rule out the possibility that Apple or Google may use the data collected in connection with the download or use of the apps in a manner that does not comply with European law. Zoo Zurich has no control over this. However, Zoo Zurich does not share any data with Apple or Google.

Using all the features of the Zoo app may require users to grant certain permissions. This may be necessary, for example, for the following purposes:

  • Location: The Zoo app may request permission to access location data for certain features. This may be necessary, in particular, to ensure that the Bluetooth feature functions properly. Other location data is not processed without prior notification and consent from Zoo Zurich.

  • Push Notifications

When users launch the Zoo app for the first time, or if a feature of the Zoo app requires access to certain functions on the device, users are asked for their consent. Users can change the permissions they have granted at any time in their device settings. As described, certain permissions are necessary for specific features of the Zoo app to function at all. If the relevant permissions are revoked, the Zoo app may no longer be able to provide the affected feature correctly.

3. When creating a user account or logging into an existing user account

You can visit the platform/zoo app without creating a user account. Certain bookings/reservations on the platform/in the zoo app can also be made without a user account. However, certain features are available only to registered users.

When a user account is created, the following information is collected:

  • Email address

  • Password/Username

The data in the user account can be viewed and modified at any time. Finally, users can request that their account be completely deleted. If users wish to delete their account, they must submit a request to the Zoo Zurich (see “Contact” below).

The Zoo Zurich uses personal information to verify users’ identities and check that they meet the registration requirements. The email address and password together serve as login credentials and thus ensure that the correct person is using the platform/Zoo app under the user’s account details. Zoo Zurich also requires users’ email addresses to verify and confirm account creation and for future communication with users necessary for the provision of services. In addition, this data is stored in the user’s account for future services. For this purpose, the Zoo Zurich also allows users to enter additional information in their account.

Zoo Zurich also uses the data to provide an overview of the services ordered and a simple way to manage users’ personal data, to administer the platform/Zoo app and contractual relationships—that is, to establish, define the terms, execution, and modification of the contracts concluded with users via their user accounts.

In addition, the Zoo Zurich may use the information in the user account or information about services requested by users that are linked to the user account to send users personalized communications, provided the requirements are met (see “Newsletter” below). Finally, the Zoo Zurich may also use the information in user accounts for statistical analysis.

4. When using features and services

When users of the Zoo Zurich utilize the services and features offered on the platform or in the zoo app, personal data is actively collected and processed in each instance. The use of these services and features is voluntary. Users decide which services and features they wish to use and which personal data they wish to provide to the Zoo Zurich.

When it comes to services, the Zoo Zurich specifies to users what information the Zoo Zurich requires to provide the services (and what information, if any, is provided voluntarily). Users decide on a case-by-case basis whether they wish to provide the information to Zoo Zurich. If users do not wish to provide Zoo Zurich with the necessary information, they will not be able to use certain services and features.

The following features and services are particularly worth mentioning:

Donations

Users can donate to specific projects directly through the platform. To do so, users must provide the following personal information, among other things:

A project for which users would like to make a donation;

  • Donation amount;

  • Title;

  • First name and last name;

  • Company (if this is a corporate donation);

  • Street, ZIP code, city);

  • Phone number;

  • Email;

  • Comments;

  • Payment method and, depending on the method, payment information.

The information above must be provided.

The Zoo Zurich processes this personal data for the purpose of processing the donation (donation payment, verification of receipt of the donation). To this end, the Zoo Zurich also shares certain data with its payment service providers. Zoo Zurich also reserves the right to use the contact information to thank donors. Finally, the contact information may also be used to contact potential donors to clarify any uncertainties or unanswered questions regarding the donation.

Event Request

If users would like to host an event at the Zoo Zurich, they can submit their request directly through the platform. Of course, event requests can also be made by phone or email.

The following personal information is required for event inquiries:

  • Desired date;

  • Planned start time;

  • Desired location (e.g., Masoala Restaurant);

  • Number of people;

  • Description of the event;

  • Title;

  • First and last name;

  • Company;

  • Street, ZIP code, City;

  • Phone number;

  • Email.

The information listed above is required.

Zoo Zurich processes this data to gain an overview of the planned event and to contact interested parties afterward. The purpose of contacting you is to discuss the event, provide a quote, and organize and carry out the event. In this context, additional personal data may be collected that is necessary for the organization and execution of the event. Information regarding individual events may also be processed by Zoo Zurich in aggregated form for statistical purposes.

In addition, the contact information will be used to send event customers information about current event offers in the future. Further information about this data processing, as well as how to opt out of receiving such information, can be found in the “Newsletter” section below.

Sponsorship Application

Users can submit a sponsorship application directly through the platform. To do so, users must provide the following information:

  • Select a plant to sponsor;

  • Title;

  • First and last name;

  • Company (if this is a corporate sponsorship);

  • Street, ZIP code, city;

  • Phone number;

  • Email;

  • Start date of sponsorship;

  • Listing on the digital sponsorship board (yes/no);

  • Is the sponsorship a gift?;

  • Information about the recipient (if the sponsorship is to be a gift);

  • Comments.

The information above is required.

Zoo Zurich processes this information to review the application, contact potential sponsors, clarify any outstanding questions, implement and organize the sponsorship, and administer the various sponsorships. Zoo Zurich reserves the right to use the contact information to thank sponsors for their sponsorship and to inform them of news regarding their sponsored animal or plant.

Group Registrations

Groups can register for guided tours directly through the platform. Registrations can also be made by phone or email. To do so, users must provide the following information:

  • Type of group;

  • Date;

  • Estimated arrival time;

  • Group name/school:

  • Street, ZIP code, City;

  • Title;

  • First and last name of the contact person;

  • Cell phone number;

  • Email;

  • Number of visitors;

  • RailAway ticket: yes/no;

  • Reservation at a zoo restaurant (yes/no);

  • Comments.

This information is required.

Zoo Zurich processes this information to review and process the group registration, organize and carry out the zoo visit, and, if desired, make reservations at the restaurants. The contact information is also used to contact the group’s designated contact person and to clarify details of the visit. If necessary, Zoo Zurich is authorized to forward contact information to third-party service providers. Finally, Zoo Zurich may process the information in aggregated form for statistical purposes.

Requests for Guided Tours

Users can submit requests for guided tours at the Zoo Zurich directly through the platform. Requests can also be made by phone or email. The following information is required:

  • Guided tour for adults/children;

  • Desired date;

  • Preferred start time;

  • Preferred duration;

  • Preferred language for the tour;

  • Number of participants (adults/children);

  • Reception (yes/no);

  • Title;

  • First and last name of the contact person;

  • Company (if this is a corporate tour);

  • Street, ZIP code, city;

  • Phone number;

  • Email;

  • Comments.

For inquiries regarding school groups, the following additional information is required:

  • Grade level;

  • Number of students;

  • Number of chaperones;

  • Travel arrangements (Yes/No).

The Zoo Zurich processes this information to review and process inquiries, organize and conduct the guided tour, and, if desired, arrange transportation. The contact information is also used to contact the designated contact person to clarify details of the guided tour. If necessary—particularly regarding the organization of travel arrangements—Zoo Zurich is authorized to forward contact information to third-party service providers. Finally, Zoo Zurich may process the information in aggregated form for statistical purposes.

Registration for courses, guided tours, seminars, and culinary events

Users can register for courses, guided tours, seminars, and culinary events directly on the platform. The courses, guided tours, seminars, and culinary events available, as well as the details of each event, are listed on the platform. Registrations can also be made by email or by phone.

The registration form specifies which information is required for registration. Typically, this includes the following information:

  • Date (if there are different event dates);

  • Number of participants (number of adults/number of children);

  • Title;

  • First and last name of the contact person;

  • Street, ZIP code, city;

  • Cell phone number;

  • Email;

  • Voucher/gift card number (if applicable);

  • Payment information (if the event requires payment);

  • Number of meat, fish, and vegetarian meals (for culinary events);

  • Comments.

Zoo Zurich processes this information to verify and process the registration, as well as to organize and conduct the relevant courses, guided tours, seminars, and culinary events. The contact information is also used to reach out to the contact person to clarify details. If necessary, the Zoo Zurich is authorized to forward contact information to third-party service providers (e.g., payment service providers, restaurant operators). Finally, the Zoo Zurich may process the information in aggregated form for statistical purposes.

Ordering Annual Passes for Companies

Companies can order annual passes for their employees and customers directly through the platform. These annual passes are transferable. The following information is required to place this order:

  • Company logo (upload);

  • Number of individual tickets;

  • Validity date;

  • Title;

  • Last name and first name of the contact person;

  • Company;

  • Street, ZIP code, City;

  • Phone number;

  • Email;

  • Billing address.

The Zoo Zurich processes this information to verify and process the order, as well as to issue the annual passes and deliver them to the contact person. The contact information is also used to contact the contact person to clarify details. If necessary, the Zoo Zurich is authorized to forward contact information to third-party service providers (e.g., ticket printers, payment service providers). Finally, the Zoo Zurich may process the information in aggregate form for statistical purposes.

Online Store/App Purchases

When users wish to purchase a product on the platform—in the Zoo Zurich Online Shop or via the Zoo app (e.g., admission tickets)—various personal data are collected to process the purchase.

Users must provide the following information:

  • Company (if the order is for a company);

  • Title;

  • First and last name;

  • Mailing address/Shipping address;

  • Country;

  • Phone number;

  • Email address;

  • Payment details (depending on the selected payment method).

Providing additional information is voluntary.

If the purchase is made as a registered user, this data is stored in the user's account.

In connection with orders placed through the Zoo Zurich Online Shop or the Zoo app, as well as with the processing of those orders, Zoo Zurich also collects, stores, and processes the following data:

  • Information about the products ordered;

  • Information about the services ordered;

  • Data on ordering, purchasing, and payment behavior.

Unless otherwise specified in this Privacy Policy or unless users have given their separate consent, the Zoo Zurich will use the aforementioned data solely to fulfill the contract, specifically to process orders, deliver the ordered products, and ensure proper payment.

Purchasing and Depositing Tickets

Tickets can be purchased either through the Zoo Zurich online store, the Zoo app, or at the ticket office.

For purchases made in the Zoo Zurich Online Shop or via the Zoo app, the provisions in the section “Zoo Zurich Online Shop/Zoo App Purchases” apply. Tickets purchased online can be saved in the Zoo App, provided the purchase was made as a registered user. This allows customers to scan their tickets directly from the Zoo App at the gate.

No personal information is collected when purchasing single-entry tickets at the ticket window. However, personal information is collected when purchasing an annual pass. This includes:

  • Title;

  • First and last name;

  • Address;

  • Zip code;

  • City;

  • Country;

  • Email address;

  • Phone number;

  • Date of birth;

  • Photo (upload as appropriate, depending on the sales channel).

The annual pass can also be added to the zoo app.

Unless otherwise specified in this Privacy Policy or unless customers have given their separate consent, Zoo Zurich will use the aforementioned data solely to fulfill the contract, specifically to issue the annual pass, deliver the ordered annual pass, and ensure proper payment. Zoo Zurich may also engage third-party service providers for this purpose (e.g., financial service providers).

The photos for the annual passes are stored digitally on behalf of the Zoo Zurich on servers belonging to Hostpoint, located at Neue Jonastrasse 60, 8640 Rapperswil-Jona, Switzerland. Zoo Zurich ensures, on a contractual basis, that Hostpoint processes the digital image data only in a manner that Zoo Zurich would be permitted to do.

In addition, the contact information of annual pass holders is used to notify them via email or through the app about news related to the use of their annual pass (e.g., special promotions for annual pass holders, reminders regarding annual pass renewal). Holders may opt out of receiving this information at any time (by email to orjahreskarten@zoo.chto ). Even if an objection is raised, Zoo Zurich will continue to inform holders about changes to the terms and conditions of the annual pass or about the expiration of the annual pass’s validity.

Contest

To participate in sweepstakes held either through the platform or elsewhere, Zoo Zurich requires and processes participants’ email addresses and mailing addresses for the purpose of organizing and conducting the sweepstakes, as well as delivering the prize. Winners will be notified by Zoo Zurich via email. If additional information is required or if the information is processed for other purposes, this will be clearly stated in connection with the contest.

Using the Zoo Wi-Fi

The following data is collected in connection with the use of the zoo's Wi-Fi:

  • MAC address of the device;

  • Each time a customer uses the service, data regarding the areas of the Zoo Zurich they visit—including the time, date, and device—is collected;

  • Usage and metadata;

  • Title

  • First and last name

  • Email address

Usage and log data are retained on an individual basis for one month and then deleted. Contact information is destroyed either upon cancellation of participation in the Wi-Fi service or twelve months after registration.

In exchange for using the Zoo Wi-Fi, users agree upon registration that Zoo Zurich may send them the Zoo newsletter. The email address provided during registration will be used for this purpose. The provisions in the “Newsletter” section below apply to the Zoo Newsletter and the revocation of consent.

For more information on using Zoo-Wifi, please see the Zoo-Wifi Terms and Conditions.

Cookies

Cookies are small files that allow specific, device-related information to be stored on the user’s device (PC, smartphone, etc.). On the one hand, they serve to enhance the user-friendliness of websites and thus benefit users. On the other hand, they are used to collect statistical data on website usage (e.g., clicked ad banners, visited subpages, etc.) and to analyze this data in order to improve the website’s offerings.

There are essentially two different types of cookies. First, there are session cookies, which are stored only for the duration of a visitor’s session. This means that the cookies are automatically deleted as soon as the user closes the respective service. Second, there are temporary/permanent cookies, which are stored on the user’s device for a longer period of time or indefinitely. These cookies are necessary to recognize which user is visiting the site again and to recall the settings and input that the user requires. These cookies remain on the hard drive and delete themselves automatically after the specified time.

Users can control the use of cookies by accepting or rejecting them via the cookie banner that appears on the zoo.ch website. In addition, most browsers have an option that allows you to restrict or completely prevent the storage of cookies. However, please note that without cookies, the website’s functionality—and, in particular, your user experience—will be limited.

Here's how to disable cookies in the most common browsers:

The Zoo Zurich will use automatically collected information exclusively for statistical analysis and, in particular, will not link it to any personal data that may have been provided to the Zoo Zurich.

Google Analytics

The platform uses Google Analytics, a web analytics service provided by Google Ireland Limited, Google Building Gordon House, 4 Barrow St, Dublin, D04 E5W5, Ireland, or Google Inc., 1600 Amphitheatre Pkwy, Mountain View, CA 94043-1351, USA (“Google”). Google Analytics uses methods that enable the analysis of platform usage, such as “cookies.” These generate information about platform usage, such as

  • Browser type/version;

  • Operating system used;

  • Referrer URL (the previously visited page);

  • Hostname of the accessing computer (IP address);

  • Time of the server request;

  • Device;

  • Pages viewed;

  • Orders, including sales figures, products ordered, and shopping cart contents (this information is primarily disclosed to us by Google in aggregated form for statistical purposes);

  • Achievement of “website goals” (e.g., contact requests and newsletter sign-ups);

  • Behavior on the pages (e.g., time spent on the site, clicks, scrolling behavior); and

  • Approximate location (country and city).

This information is transmitted to Google's servers in the United States and stored there. By enabling IP anonymization (“anonymizeIP”) on the platform, the IP address is truncated within the member states of the European Union or in other signatory states to the Agreement on the European Economic Area, or in Switzerland, prior to transmission. The anonymized IP address transmitted by the user’s browser as part of Google Analytics is not merged with other data held by Google. Only in exceptional cases is the full IP address transmitted to a Google server in the United States and truncated there. In such cases, the Zoo Zurich ensures through contractual safeguards that Google maintains an adequate level of data protection.

The information is used to analyze the use of the platform, to compile reports on website activity, and to provide other services related to website and Internet usage for the purposes of market research and to tailor this platform to user needs. This information may also be transferred to third parties where required by law or where third parties process this data on our behalf. According to Google, the IP address will under no circumstances be associated with any other data relating to the users.

Users can prevent Google from collecting the data generated by the cookie and related to their use of the platform (including their IP address), as well as from processing this data, by refusing to accept cookies via the cookie banner that appears on the screen or by downloading and installing the browser plugin available at the following link.

Google Ads Conversion Tracking

As part of its advertising efforts through Google Ads, Zoo Zurich uses conversion tracking, which is provided by Google Ireland Ltd., Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland (“Google”).

Zoo Zurich uses this service to better tailor its ads to users’ interests and needs. Google’s conversion tracking records what happens after a user clicks on a Zoo Zurich ad. Using the conversion tracking tool, Zoo Zurich can see which keywords, ads, ad groups, and campaigns led to the desired customer actions. This allows Zoo Zurich to measure the success of its ads and optimize its advertising efforts. In addition, this information helps the Zoo Zurich make its website more engaging and tailor its advertising offerings even better to individual needs.

The Zoo Zurich has embedded a conversion tag or code snippet on its website. When users click on a Zoo Zurich ad, Google AdWords stores a cookie on their computer or mobile device. As soon as users subsequently visit the Zoo Zurich website, Google recognizes the cookie and tracks the users’ activities on the site. The following metrics are typically stored in association with this cookie: the unique cookie ID, the number of ad impressions per placement (frequency), the last impression (relevant for post-view conversions), and opt-out information (an indicator that the user no longer wishes to be targeted).

As long as the cookie is valid, Google and the Zoo Zurich, as the website operators, can recognize that users have clicked on an ad and been directed to a specific landing page on the platform. These cookies cannot be tracked across multiple platforms operated by different Ads participants. The cookie is used to generate conversion statistics in “Google Ads.” These statistics track the number of users who clicked on a search ad. It also counts how many users have reached a landing page that has been tagged with a “conversion tag.” However, the statistics do not contain any data that can be used to identify individual users.

Ad server cookies generally expire after a maximum of 90 days and are not intended to identify users personally.

Zoo Zurich itself does not collect or process any personal data in connection with this tracking. Zoo Zurich merely receives the aforementioned statistical analyses from Google. In particular, Zoo Zurich cannot identify users based on this information.

Users can prevent their data from being tracked in this way in several ways:

  • a) by adjusting the browser settings accordingly; in particular, disabling third-party cookies ensures that users do not receive ads from third-party providers;

  • b) by disabling cookies for conversion tracking; users can do this by configuring their browser to block cookies from the domain www.googleadservices.com; however, this setting will be reset when users clear their cookies;

  • c) by permanently disabling cookies in the browser via the following link;

  • d) by adjusting the cookie settings accordingly.

The Zoo Zurich would like to inform users that, in this case, they may not be able to take full advantage of all the features of this service.

Users can find additional information and Google's Privacy Policy at: https://policies.google.com/privacy.

Google Remarketing

In addition to Google Ads Conversion Tracking, the Zoo Zurich uses the Google Remarketing application. This is a method that allows users to be targeted again. Through this application, Zoo Zurich ads can be displayed to users as they continue browsing the internet after visiting the platform. This is done using cookies stored in users’ browsers, which Google uses to track and analyze users’ browsing behavior as they visit various websites. This enables Google to determine that users have previously visited the platform. According to Google’s own statements, the data collected as part of remarketing is not combined with users’ personal data that may be stored by Google. In particular, Google states that pseudonymization is used in remarketing.

Users can specifically opt out of the use of these cookies for advertising on Google services and those of several other providers (listed on the Digital Advertising Alliance) (https://www.networkadvertising.org/choices/). Users can also block these cookies by adjusting their browser settings accordingly.

Users can find additional information and Google's Privacy Policy at: https://policies.google.com/privacy.

Google DoubleClick

DoubleClick by Google is a service provided by Google Ireland Limited, Google Building Gordon House, 4 Barrow St, Dublin, D04 E5W5, Ireland, or Google Inc., 1600 Amphitheatre Pkwy, Mountain View, CA 94043-1351, USA (“Google”). DoubleClick by Google uses cookies to display ads that are relevant to users. In doing so, a pseudonymous identification number (ID) is assigned to the user’s browser to track which ads were displayed in the browser and which ads were clicked. The cookies do not contain any personally identifiable information. The use of DoubleClick cookies merely enables Google and its partner websites to display ads based on previous visits to the Zoo Zurich website or other websites on the Internet. The information generated by the cookies is transmitted by Google to a server in the United States for analysis and stored there. Google will only transfer the data to third parties if required by law or within the scope of data processing on behalf of the data controller. Under no circumstances will Google combine this data with other data it has collected.

Users can prevent cookies from being stored by rejecting them in the cookie banner or by adjusting their browser settings accordingly. However, the Zoo Zurich advises users that, in this case, they may not be able to fully utilize all features of the platform. Users can also prevent Google from collecting the data generated by the cookies and related to their use of the platform, as well as from processing this data, by downloading and installing the browser plugin available at the following link under “DoubleClick Opt-out Extension.”

Users can find additional information and Google's Privacy Policy at: https://policies.google.com/privacy.

Google reCAPTCHA

The platform uses the reCAPTCHA service provided by Google Inc. (1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA; “Google”). The purpose of this check is to determine whether the input is being made by a human or through automated, machine-based processing.

To this end, reCAPTCHA analyzes user behavior based on various characteristics. This analysis begins automatically as soon as users access the platform. For the analysis, reCAPTCHA evaluates various pieces of information (e.g., IP address, the length of time users spend on the platform, or mouse movements made by users). The data collected during the analysis is forwarded to Google. reCAPTCHA analyses run entirely in the background.

The query involves sending the IP address and, if applicable, other data required by Google for the reCAPTCHA service to Google. For this purpose, the user’s input is transmitted to Google and processed there. However, Google truncates the IP address within member states of the European Union or in other signatory states to the Agreement on the European Economic Area, as well as in Switzerland. Only in exceptional cases is the full IP address transmitted to a Google server in the United States and truncated there. On behalf of the operator of this platform, Google will use this information to evaluate users’ use of this service. The IP address transmitted by the user’s browser as part of reCAPTCHA is not combined with other data held by Google. User data may also be transferred to the United States in this process.

Users can find more information about Google reCAPTCHA and Google's Privacy Policy at the following links: https://policies.google.com/privacy and https://www.google.com/recaptcha/intro/android.html.

Facebook remarketing

The platform uses so-called “Facebook Pixels” from the social network Facebook. With the help of the Facebook pixel, Meta Inc., 1601 S. California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA, is able to identify the platform’s users as a target audience for displaying ads, known as “Facebook Ads.” Accordingly, Zoo Zurich uses the Facebook pixel to ensure that Facebook ads are displayed only to those Facebook users who have shown an interest in the zoo’s website. This means that the Facebook Pixel ensures that Facebook Ads align with users’ potential interests and do not come across as intrusive. With the help of the Facebook Pixel, Zoo Zurich can also track the effectiveness of Facebook ads for statistical and market research purposes by seeing whether users were redirected to the platform after clicking on a Facebook ad.

The Facebook Pixel is immediately integrated by Facebook when the platform is accessed and can store a so-called cookie—that is, a small file—on the user’s device. If users then log in to Facebook or visit Facebook while logged in, their visit to the platform is recorded in their profile. The data collected about users is anonymous to the Zoo Zurich; therefore, it does not reveal the users’ identities. However, the data is stored and processed by Facebook, making it possible to link it to the respective user profile. Facebook processes the data in accordance with its Data Use Policy. Accordingly, users can find further information on how the remarketing pixel works and, more generally, on the display of Facebook ads in Facebook’s Data Usage Policy.

Users can opt out of being tracked by the Facebook Pixel and the use of their data to display Facebook ads. To do so, users can visit the page set up by Facebook and follow the instructions there regarding settings for usage-based advertising. These settings apply across all platforms, meaning they are applied to all devices, such as desktop computers and mobile devices.

LinkedIn Insight Tag

The platform uses so-called “LinkedIn Insight Tags” from the social network LinkedIn, LinkedIn Corporation, 1000 W. Maude Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA. With the help of the “LinkedIn Insight Tag,” LinkedIn is able to identify users of the platform as a target audience for displaying ads, known as “LinkedIn Ads.” Accordingly, Zoo Zurich uses the “LinkedIn Insight Tag” to ensure that the “LinkedIn Ads” are displayed only to those LinkedIn users who have also shown an interest in the zoo’s website. This means that the “LinkedIn Insight Tag” ensures that “LinkedIn Ads” align with users’ potential interests and do not come across as intrusive. Furthermore, the “LinkedIn Insight Tag” allows Zoo Zurich to track the effectiveness of “LinkedIn Ads” for statistical and market research purposes by determining whether users were redirected to the platform after clicking on a “LinkedIn Ad.”

The “LinkedIn Insight Tag” is immediately integrated by LinkedIn when the platform is accessed and may store a so-called cookie—that is, a small file—on the user’s device. If users subsequently log in to LinkedIn or visit LinkedIn while logged in, their visit to the platform is recorded in their profile. The data collected about users is anonymous, meaning it does not reveal the users’ identities. However, LinkedIn stores and processes the data in a way that allows it to be linked to the respective user profile. LinkedIn processes the data in accordance with the LinkedIn Data Use Policy. Accordingly, users can find further information on how the “LinkedIn Insight Tag” works and, more generally, on the display of LinkedIn ads at https://de.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy.

Users can opt out of data collection via the “LinkedIn Insight Tag” and the use of their data to display LinkedIn ads. To do so, users can visit the page set up by LinkedIn at and follow the instructions there regarding settings for usage-based advertising. These settings apply across all platforms, meaning they are applied to all devices, such as desktop computers or mobile devices.

Pinterest tag

The platform uses so-called “Pinterest Tags” from the social network Pinterest, Pinterest Inc., 651 Brannan Street, San Francisco, CA 94107, USA. With the help of the “Pinterest Tag,” Pinterest is able to identify the platform’s users as a target audience for displaying ads, known as “Pinterest Ads.” Accordingly, Zoo Zurich uses the “Pinterest Tag” to ensure that the “Pinterest Ads” are displayed only to those Pinterest users who have also shown an interest in the zoo’s website. This means that the “Pinterest Tag” ensures that “Pinterest Ads” align with users’ potential interests and do not come across as intrusive. Furthermore, the “Pinterest Tag” allows Zoo Zurich to track the effectiveness of Pinterest ads for statistical and market research purposes by determining whether users were redirected to the platform after clicking on a “Pinterest Ad.”

The “Pinterest Tag” is immediately integrated by Pinterest when the platform is accessed and may store a so-called cookie—that is, a small file—on the user’s device. If users then log in to Pinterest or visit Pinterest while logged in, their visit to the platform is recorded in their profile. The data collected about users is anonymous; therefore, it does not reveal the users’ identities. However, Pinterest stores and processes the data in a way that allows it to be linked to the respective user profile. Pinterest processes the data in accordance with its Data Use Policy. Accordingly, users can find further information about how the “Pinterest Tag” works and, more generally, about the display of “Pinterest Ads” at https://policy.pinterest.com/de/privacy-policy.

Users can opt out of data collection via the “Pinterest Tag” and the use of their data to display “Pinterest Ads.” To do so, users can visit the page set up by Pinterest and follow the instructions there regarding settings for usage-based advertising. These settings apply across all platforms; that is, they are applied to all devices, such as desktop computers and mobile devices.

Links to Social Media Profiles

The platform includes links to the Zoo Zurich's social media profiles on the following social networks:

When users click on the relevant social media icons, they are automatically redirected to the Zoo Zurich profile on that social media platform. To use the features of that platform, users may need to log in to their account on that platform.

When users click on a link to one of Zoo Zurich’s social media profiles, a direct connection is established between the user’s browser and the server of the respective social network. This informs the network that the user, with their IP address, has visited the platform and clicked on the link. If users click on a link to a social network while logged into their account on that network, the platform’s content may be linked to the user’s profile on that network, which means the network can directly associate the visit to the platform with the user’s account. If users wish to prevent this, they should log out before clicking on such links. An association will definitely occur if users log in to the respective network after clicking the link.

Newsletter

Through its newsletter, Zoo Zurich provides updates on the latest news and special offers. The newsletter is sent via the “Inxmail” mailing platform operated by Inxmail, located at Wentzingerstrasse 17, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.

If users wish to receive the newsletter, we require a valid email address, a title, first and last names, and information that allows us to verify that the owner of the provided email address consents to receiving the newsletter. No other data is collected. When users subscribe to the newsletter, we store their IP address and the date of subscription. This information is stored solely as evidence in the event that a third party misuses an email address and subscribes to the newsletter without the user’s knowledge.

It is also important to the Zoo Zurich to determine what content is of interest to users so that it can continually improve the zoo’s newsletter. Zoo Zurich therefore reserves the right to use analytics tools that allow it to determine whether and when users have opened the newsletter and which news items they have viewed (“click behavior”). Although this information can be linked to individual newsletter recipients for technical reasons, no personal data is analyzed. To prevent the use of the so-called tracking pixel in the newsletter, if this is not already the default setting, the email program must be configured so that HTML is not displayed in messages. On the following pages, users will find instructions on how to configure this setting in the most common email programs.

Microsoft Outlook

Mail for Mac ("Load Removed Content in Messages")

Users may revoke their consent to the storage of their data and email address, as well as to the use of that information for sending the newsletter, at any time. Consent may be revoked via a link in the newsletter itself or by sending a message to the contact information provided below (see the “Contact” section).

Storing Data in a Central Database

The personal data mentioned in this Privacy Policy is stored and processed centrally by the Zoo Zurich. E-commerce data, as well as data that users enter into the various forms on the platform, is stored on servers operated by Hostpoint, Neue Jonastrasse 60, 8640 Rapperswil-Jona. Other data is stored on Zoo Zurich’s own physical servers in Switzerland.

This ensures the efficient management of personal data and enables the Zoo Zurich to respond appropriately to users’ inquiries, as well as to efficiently provide the services requested by users and process the associated contracts.

The Zoo Zurich analyzes this data to further develop its offerings in a way that meets users’ needs and to display and suggest information and offers that are as relevant as possible to users. Zoo Zurich may also use methods that predict potential interests and future orders based on how the platform is used. These analyses may result in the creation of user profiles.

Users may object at any time to the use of their personal data for advertising purposes and to the creation of user profiles (see “Contact” below).

Disclosure of Data to Third Parties

The Zoo Zurich discloses personal data only if users have expressly consented, if there is a legal obligation to do so, or if it is necessary to enforce the rights of the Zoo Zurich, in particular to enforce claims arising from the contractual relationship.

Certain features and services may involve the transfer of personal data. In such cases, users will be notified of this transfer to third parties. Zoo Zurich will not disclose personal data to third parties without the users’ express consent. However, it may be the case that certain features and services cannot be provided without the transfer of personal data to third parties.

In addition, the Zoo Zurich shares personal data with third parties to the extent necessary for the use of the platform and to provide the services and features requested by users. The use of the data shared for these purposes by third parties is strictly limited to the purposes specified.

Various third-party service providers are explicitly mentioned in this Privacy Policy. Another service provider to which personal data is disclosed or that has or may have access to personal data is the web hosting provider Hostpoint, Neue Jonastrasse 60, 8640 Rapperswil-Jona. The platform is hosted on servers in Switzerland.

For users who are customers of sponsoring partners (Zürcher Kantonalbank, EWZ, Mobiliar, the Migros Cooperative Association of Zurich, and Tchibo) and who take advantage of discounts and other benefits offered by Zoo Zurich through these sponsoring partners, Zoo Zurich will transmit the relevant information to the respective sponsoring partner so that the partner can evaluate how many of its customers have accessed Zoo Zurich’s services through its portal.

For paid features for which the Zoo Zurich offers online payment, payment information—in particular, card information—will be shared with the service providers involved in processing the payment. Card issuers may have additional provisions regarding data processing.

Data is also shared with swiss moonshot AG (aiaibot.com), Hardturmstrasse 105, 8005 Zurich, which provides the chatbot on the platform on behalf of the Zoo Zurich. However, this data generally does not constitute personal data. As soon as users interact with the chatbot, a user ID is generated. However, this ID is not linked to any information that would allow for identification. Since the chatbot provides standardized responses to specific questions and users therefore do not enter their own information, no personal data is collected during these interactions. Only if users provide feedback at the end of the interaction might they voluntarily provide personal information. By default, this is not intended.

Transfer of Personal Data Abroad

Zoo Zurich is authorized to transfer personal data to third-party companies abroad, provided that this is necessary in connection with processing inquiries, providing services, conducting marketing campaigns, and fulfilling orders. These third-party companies are obligated to protect users’ privacy to the same extent as Zoo Zurich itself. If the level of data protection in a country is deemed inadequate under Swiss data protection law, Zoo Zurich ensures through a contract that personal data is protected at all times in accordance with Swiss data protection standards.

Various third-party service providers and their registered addresses are explicitly named in this Privacy Policy. Some of the third-party service providers mentioned in this Privacy Policy are based in the United States.

For the sake of completeness, the Zoo Zurich notes that, under U.S. law, U.S. authorities may implement surveillance measures that allow for the general storage of all data transferred from the European Union and Switzerland to the United States. This occurs without distinction, limitation, or exception based on the intended purpose and without objective criteria that would allow for limiting the U.S. authorities’ access to personal data and its subsequent use to specific, strictly limited purposes that would justify such access.

Zoo Zurich hereby informs users residing in Switzerland that, from Switzerland’s perspective—in part due to the issues mentioned in the preceding paragraph—the United States does not provide an adequate level of data protection. To the extent that recipients of data (such as Google) are based in the United States, Zoo Zurich will ensure—through contractual arrangements with these companies, in particular by entering into the revised Standard Contractual Clauses and, where necessary, implementing additional measures—that personal data is protected to an adequate level by these partners.

Integration of Third-Party Services and Content

Third-party content may be embedded within the platform, such as videos from YouTube, maps from Google Maps, audio files from SoundCloud, or graphics from other websites. This always requires that the providers of this content (hereinafter referred to as “third-party providers”) collect the users’ IP addresses. Without the IP address, they would not be able to send the content to the users’ browsers. The IP address is therefore necessary for displaying this content. Zoo Zurich has no control over whether third-party providers store the IP address, for example, for statistical purposes. It is also possible that third-party providers use cookies (see “Cookies” for more information).

Contact Us

When users contact the Zoo Zurich (for example, via the contact form or email, or when submitting a job application via email), their information is stored for the purpose of processing the inquiry and in case follow-up questions arise. Once the purpose of processing has been fulfilled, users’ information will be deleted. However, the information may be anonymized and continue to be stored and processed for statistical purposes.

Safety Measures

Zoo Zurich works with its hosting providers to implement security measures designed to protect its databases as effectively as possible against unauthorized access, loss, misuse, or falsification of information and personal data.

However, internet transmissions can never be 100% secure. Once the Zoo Zurich has received the transmitted information, it secures it appropriately within its systems. It is the responsibility of users to ensure the security of their internet connection. Any claims by users for damages resulting from the use of an unsecured connection—in particular for any damage to their hardware or software, data loss, or other forms of loss attributable to the use of the service are excluded, unless the event causing the damage was due to intentional or grossly negligent conduct on the part of Zoo Zurich. Use of the publicly accessible Internet is therefore at the user’s own risk.

Access to personal data is limited to those employees and third-party companies that need to know this information. These individuals and companies are obligated to maintain confidentiality and comply with applicable data protection laws. Zoo Zurich will under no circumstances sell personal data to third parties or market it in any other way.

Data Retention

The Zoo Zurich retains personal data only for as long as necessary to carry out the processing activities described in this Privacy Policy. For contractual data, retention is required by statutory retention obligations. The requirements that oblige the Zoo Zurich to retain data stem from accounting regulations and tax laws. According to these regulations, business correspondence, concluded contracts, and accounting documents must be retained for up to 10 years. To the extent that the Zoo Zurich no longer requires this data to provide services to the customer, the data will be blocked. This means that the data may then only be used if necessary to fulfill retention obligations or to defend and enforce legal interests. The data will be deleted as soon as there is no longer any retention obligation or legitimate interest in retaining it.

Right to Information and Disclosure

Provided that the legal requirements are met, users, as data subjects, have the following rights:

Right to Information

Users have the right to request access, free of charge and at any time, to their personal data stored by the Zoo Zurich, if the Zoo Zurich processes such data. This allows users to verify what personal data Zoo Zurich processes about them and to ensure that Zoo Zurich uses this data in accordance with applicable data protection regulations.

Right to Correction

Users have the right to have inaccurate or incomplete personal data corrected and to be notified of such corrections. In such cases, the Zoo Zurich will inform the recipients of the data in question about the changes made, unless this is impossible or would involve a disproportionate amount of effort.

Right to Erasure

Users have the right to have their personal data erased under certain circumstances. In specific cases—particularly where there are legal requirements to retain data—the right to erasure may not apply. In such cases, provided certain conditions are met, the data may be blocked instead of being erased.

Right to Restriction of Processing

Users have the right to request that the processing of their personal data be restricted.

Right to Data Portability

Users have the right to receive, free of charge, the personal data they have provided to Zoo Zurich in a readable format.

Right to Object

Users may object to data processing at any time, particularly data processing related to direct marketing (e.g., promotional emails).

Right of Withdrawal

Users generally have the right to withdraw their consent at any time. However, processing activities carried out in the past based on that consent do not become unlawful as a result of the withdrawal.

To exercise these rights, users should send an email to the following address: informatik@zoo.ch

In response to such requests, the Zoo Zurich is required to verify the identity of the applicants. Therefore, requests can only be processed if they are accompanied by appropriate proof of identity.

Disclosure of Information to Government Agencies

The Zoo Zurich may be required to disclose users' contact, usage, and metadata to the appropriate authorities.

Contact

If users have any questions about this Privacy Policy or data processing, they may contact us at the following address: Zoo Zurich AG, Zürichbergstrasse 221, 8044 Zurich, or via email at orzoo@zoo.chor .

Updates to the Privacy Policy

The Zoo Zurich reserves the right to amend this privacy policy at any time in accordance with legal requirements.

Zoo Zurich AG – Privacy Policy – December 13, 2022