This Cookie Policy explains how STARTUPWORX OÜ (“We”, “Data Controller”) — operator of the Hi Networking project (“Hi Networking”, “Platform”) — uses cookies and similar technologies on hinetworking.com and related applications. It is part of, and should be read together with, our Privacy Policy.
1. What are cookies?
Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work, to make them work more efficiently, and to provide information to the site’s operator. Similar technologies (local storage, session storage, IndexedDB, pixels, SDKs) may be used for comparable purposes; we treat them the same way as cookies in this policy.
2. Categories of cookies we use
We group storage into six categories. Only the first runs by default; the other five wait for your consent and can be toggled independently.
- Strictly necessary — authentication, security, load balancing and remembering your cookie choices. Cannot be switched off.
- Functional — optional features you actively use, such as real-time notifications, chat presence and embedded media.
- Preferences — language, theme and saved filters so the Platform feels personalised across visits.
- Analytics — aggregate product usage so we can improve the Platform. Only set with your consent.
- Marketing — measures the performance of our own campaigns. Off by default.
- AI personalisation — uses your recent activity to tailor AI suggestions (intros, follow-ups, matches). Core AI features still work without it.
3. Legal basis
Strictly necessary cookies are set on the basis of our legitimate interest in operating the Platform securely (Article 6(1)(f) GDPR). All other cookies are set only with your prior consent (Article 6(1)(a) GDPR and the EU ePrivacy Directive 2002/58/EC as implemented by the Estonian Electronic Communications Act).
4. How we store your choices
When you make a choice in our cookie banner, we record it in your browser’s local storage and, where you are signed in or assigned an anonymous identifier, in our database so we can honour your preferences across devices. Records contain the categories you accepted, the policy version and the time of the choice. You can change your decision at any time using the link, available here and in the footer.
5. Third-party services
Some Platform features rely on processors that may set their own cookies (for example, AI providers, payment processors and email infrastructure). Such cookies are only set in the categories you have consented to. Where third parties act as independent controllers, their own privacy and cookie notices apply.
Processors held to the same standards
We only work with processors whose controls align to the frameworks below. Sub-processor list is available in our Privacy Policy.
- SOC 2 Type II standard: SOC 2 Type IIFramework · aligned
Controls mapped to the AICPA Trust Services Criteria for security, availability, and confidentiality.
- EU General Data Protection Regulation: GDPREU · in effect
Processing built around GDPR data-subject rights, lawful bases, and Article 32 security obligations.
- ISO/IEC 27001 information security standard: ISO/IEC 27001Framework · aligned
Information security controls aligned to the ISO/IEC 27001 Annex A control set.
6. Retention
Cookie lifetimes vary by purpose. Session cookies are deleted when you close your browser. Persistent cookies generally expire within 12 months. Your stored consent record is retained for the period required to demonstrate compliance under the GDPR.
7. Managing cookies in your browser
You can block or delete cookies via your browser settings at any time. Note that some features of the Platform may not work correctly if strictly necessary cookies are blocked.
8. Changes to this policy
We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in technology, law or our services. Material changes will be communicated via the Platform or by email, and we will re-prompt you for consent when required.
9. Contact
STARTUPWORX OÜ
Registry code: 16606029
Sepapaja tn 6, 15551 Tallinn, Harju Maakond, Estonia
E-mail: info@hinetworking.com