Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy

Terms and Conditions for CompareYourTech.com (including channels.compareyourtech.com and learn.compareyourtech.com) 

Effective Date: 29th August 2024 

1. Definitions

For the purposes of these Terms and Conditions: 

“Account Security”: Refers to the measures and practices implemented to protect user accounts from unauthorised access, misuse, or breaches. This includes user responsibilities for maintaining the confidentiality of account credentials and promptly reporting any suspected security issues. 

“Affiliate”: An individual or entity participating in CompareYourTech’s Affiliate Program. 

“Affiliate Commissions”: Payments made to CompareYourTech or affiliates as part of the Affiliate Program. These commissions are typically based on sales, leads, or other performance metrics generated through affiliate links or promotional efforts. 

“Affiliate Links”: Special URLs provided by CompareYourTech or affiliate programs that track referrals from affiliates and may include unique identifiers to attribute sales or leads to the affiliate who promoted the link. 

“Affiliate Program”: A program managed by CompareYourTech that enables individuals or entities to earn commissions or other incentives by promoting products or services available on the Site via affiliate links or other marketing methods. Participation in the program is governed by the terms and conditions set forth by CompareYourTech. 

“Buyer”: Any individual or entity that uses the Site to purchase products or services. 

“Commercial Use”: The use of the Site for business purposes, including but not limited to buying, selling, or promoting products and services, engaging in transactions, and conducting other commercial activities. 

“CompareYourTech,” “we,” “us,” or “our”: Refers to CompareYourTech.com, the operator of the Site. 

“Content”: All text, images, audio, video, and other materials posted or transmitted on the Site. 

“Cookies”: Small files placed on a user’s device to help CompareYourTech understand how the Site is used. 

“Data Protection Measures”: Refers to the technical and organizational measures implemented by CompareYourTech to safeguard personal data from unauthorised access, loss, or damage. This includes encryption, secure data storage, and access controls designed to protect user information. 

“Enhanced Listings”: Upgraded listing options available for purchase that provide additional features or benefits beyond the basic Free Listings. Enhanced Listings may offer increased visibility, premium placement, or additional promotional tools as described in the Site’s pricing details. 

“Free Listings”: Basic listing options on the Site that do not require payment and offer fundamental visibility and features for sellers. These listings may have limited visibility or functionality compared to Paid Listings. 

“Listing Fees”: Charges imposed by CompareYourTech for posting or maintaining a listing on the Site. Listing Fees may vary depending on the type of listing (e.g., basic, standard, premium) and any additional features or services included. 

“Paid Listings”: Listing packages on the Site that require payment and offer enhanced visibility, features, or other benefits compared to Free Listings. Paid Listings may include additional promotional options, increased prominence, or other features as outlined in the Site’s pricing information. 

“Personal Data”: Information that can identify an individual, as defined under data protection laws, including GDPR. 

“Referral Programs”: Programs in which users or affiliates earn rewards or commissions for referring new customers or users to CompareYourTech or its partners. These programs may use unique links or codes to track referrals. 

“Seller” (or “Vendor” or “Service Provider”): Any individual or entity that lists, promotes, or sells products or services on the Site. 

“Service Interruptions”: Refers to any temporary or permanent disruptions in the availability, accessibility, or functionality of the Site or its services. This may include planned maintenance, technical issues, or other unforeseen events that affect the operation of the Site. 

“Shortened URLs”: Abbreviated web addresses created to make long URLs more manageable and easier to share, often used in social media or marketing materials. Users should exercise caution with Shortened URLs as they may pose security risks. 

“Site”: Refers to CompareYourTech.com and any related websites, applications, or services operated by CompareYourTech. 

“Social Sharing Buttons”: Interactive buttons on the Site that allow users to share content directly to their social media accounts. These buttons facilitate the distribution of web pages or content through users’ social media networks. 

“Tracking Software”: Software tools used by CompareYourTech or third parties, such as Google Analytics, to monitor and analyze user interactions and behavior on the Site. Tracking Software helps in understanding user engagement and improving the Site’s functionality and content. 

“Third-Party Services”: Services provided by external vendors or platforms, such as HubSpot for CRM and marketing automation or WP Engine for web hosting. The terms and privacy policies of these third-party services govern their respective offerings. 

“Transaction Fees”: Fees charged by CompareYourTech for processing transactions on the Site, including any applicable charges for purchases, sales, or other financial activities conducted through the Site. 

“User”: Any individual or entity that interacts with the Site, including visitors, buyers, and sellers. 

“User-Generated Content”: Refers to any text, images, audio, video, reviews, comments, or other materials that are created, submitted, or uploaded by users of the Site. This content is distinct from Content provided by CompareYourTech and includes contributions made by users such as product reviews, forum posts, and social media interactions. 

“Visitor”: Any individual who accesses the Site without registering or logging in. 

2. Acceptance of Terms: 

By accessing or using CompareYourTech.com (the “Site”), you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions, as well as any amendments or updates that may be made from time to time. Your continued use of the Site constitutes your acceptance of these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree with any part of these Terms and Conditions, you must discontinue your use of the Site immediately. 

3. Use of the Site

3.1 Permitted Uses 

• Research: You may access and use the Site to gather information and conduct research. 

• Personal Use: You may download and use materials from the Site for personal, non-commercial purposes, provided that all copyright and proprietary notices are retained, and no alterations are made to the materials. 

• Commercial Use: You may engage in commercial activities on the Site, including but not limited to buying and selling products, listing and promoting goods, and conducting other related transactions. 

3.2 User Representations and Warranties 

• By using the Site, you represent and warrant that: 

• You have the legal capacity and authority to enter into these Terms and Conditions. 

• All information you provide on the Site is true, accurate, current, and complete. 

• You will comply with all applicable laws and regulations while using the Site. 

• You have all necessary rights and permissions to upload, share, and use any content you post on the Site. 

• You will not use the Site for any unlawful purpose or in any manner that could damage, disable, or impair the Site or interfere with any other party’s use of the Site. 

3.3 Content Responsibility 

• Users are solely responsible for the content they post on the Site. This includes, but is not limited to, product listings, offers, profiles, and promotional materials. 

• You warrant that all content you upload to the Site is accurate, lawful, and complies with these Terms and any applicable laws. 

• You will respect the intellectual property rights of others and will not post or transmit content that infringes upon any third party’s copyright, trademark, or other proprietary rights. 

• CompareYourTech is not responsible for reviewing or verifying content posted by users and is not liable for any claims or issues arising from such content. 

• CompareYourTech is not responsible for the content of any third-party sites linked from the Site. Your linking to or from any off-site pages or other websites is at your own risk. 

• You agree to promptly notify CompareYourTech of any content that you believe violates these Terms or infringes upon your rights or the rights of others. 

3.4 Prohibited Actions 

• You are prohibited from posting or transmitting any content that is unlawful, threatening, defamatory, obscene, scandalous, or profane. 

• You may not use the Site to engage in any fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading activities. 

• You are prohibited from using automated systems or software to access or extract data from the Site in a manner that exceeds reasonable personal use. 

• CompareYourTech reserves the right to remove any content that violates these Terms or is deemed harmful or inappropriate, and to cooperate with law enforcement authorities if required. 

• You agree to indemnify CompareYourTech for any damages or losses resulting from your violation of these Terms or from any claims arising from content you post or transmit. 

4. Intellectual Property

4.1 Copyright and Trademarks: All content on the Site, including text, images, audio, video, and logos, is protected by copyright and trademark laws. Unauthorised use of any content may violate these laws. Assume all content on the Site is copyrighted unless otherwise noted, and it may not be used except as provided in these Terms without written permission from CompareYourTech. 

The trademarks, logos, and service marks (collectively, the “Trademarks”) displayed on the Site are owned by CompareYourTech or others. Nothing on the Site grants any license or right to use any Trademark without the written permission of CompareYourTech or the respective third-party owner. Misuse of the Trademarks or any other content on the Site, except as provided in these Terms, is strictly prohibited. 

4.2 Content Use: You are granted a limited license to access and use the Site for research, personal, or commercial purposes as outlined above. You may not reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works from any content on the Site without express permission. Unauthorised use of images and trademarks displayed on the Site is prohibited. CompareYourTech will enforce its intellectual property rights to the fullest extent of the law. 

5. Disclaimers and Limitation of Liability

5.1 No Warranties: The Site and all materials on it are provided “AS IS” and “AS AVAILABLE” without any warranties, either express or implied. This includes, but is not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. CompareYourTech does not warrant the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information on the Site and disclaims all liability for any errors or omissions. 

5.2 Exclusion of Liability: To the maximum extent permitted by law, CompareYourTech shall not be liable for any direct, incidental, consequential, indirect, or punitive damages arising from or in connection with your access to, or use of, the Site. This includes, but is not limited to, damages related to viruses or other harmful components that may affect your computer equipment. 

5.3 Limitation of Liability: In instances where the exclusion of liability is not legally enforceable, CompareYourTech’s liability is limited to £100000 which reflects the maximum coverage provided by our insurance policies. This limitation applies to all claims, whether in contract, tort (including negligence), or otherwise, and even if CompareYourTech has been advised of the possibility of such damages. 

5.4 Exclusions: The above limitations and exclusions apply to the maximum extent permitted by law. CompareYourTech shall not be liable for: 

• Any loss or damage caused by a virus or other technologically harmful material that may infect your computer equipment, software, data, or other proprietary material due to your use of the Site or any third-party website linked to the Site. 

• Any interruptions or failures in the Site’s performance due to circumstances beyond our control. 

• Any issues arising from transactions, communications, or disputes between buyers and sellers on the Site. 

5.5 Indemnification: You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless CompareYourTech, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, and representatives from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including legal fees) arising out of or in connection with: 

• Your use of the Site. 

• Your breach of these Terms. 

• Any content you upload, post, or share on the Site. 

• Your violation of any rights of another person or entity. 

5.6 Third-Party Links: The Site may contain links to third-party websites. CompareYourTech is not responsible for the content or practices of any linked sites and assumes no liability for any damages arising from your use of these sites. 

5.7 Third-Party Liability and Vendor Responsibilities: CompareYourTech acts solely as a marketplace facilitator and is not responsible for any interactions, transactions, or disputes between buyers and sellers. Buyers and sellers are solely responsible for their interactions with one another, including the terms, conditions, warranties, and representations associated with such interactions. CompareYourTech is not a party to any transaction between buyers and sellers and disclaims all liability arising from such transactions. 

5.8 Data Breach Liability: CompareYourTech will take reasonable measures to protect personal data and user information. However, CompareYourTech shall not be liable for any loss or damage resulting from a data breach or unauthorized access to personal information that occurs despite our efforts to protect such data. 

5.9 Service Interruptions: CompareYourTech is not liable for any temporary or permanent interruptions in the availability or functionality of the Site. This includes but is not limited to disruptions due to maintenance, technical issues, or other factors beyond our control. We will endeavor to provide advance notice of planned maintenance, but do not guarantee uninterrupted access. 

5.10 No Liability for Content Moderation: While CompareYourTech may review and moderate User-Generated Content, we do not guarantee that any content will be reviewed, monitored, or corrected. CompareYourTech shall not be liable for any errors, inaccuracies, or inappropriate content provided by users. 

5.11 Force Majeure: CompareYourTech shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performance due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, war, terrorism, pandemics, or governmental actions. 

6. Privacy and Data Protection

6.1 Privacy Policy: Your privacy is important to us. Please refer to our Privacy Policy for details on how we collect, use, and protect your personally identifiable information. 

6.2 GDPR Compliance: If you are located in the European Union, CompareYourTech is committed to complying with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This includes ensuring your data is processed lawfully, transparently, and for specific purposes. You have the right to access, correct, delete, and restrict the processing of your personal data. For more information, please review our Privacy Policy. 

6.3 Data Breach Notification: In the event of a data breach that may compromise your personal data, CompareYourTech will notify you as soon as reasonably possible, outlining the nature of the breach, the data affected, and any steps taken to mitigate the impact. CompareYourTech will also report the breach to relevant data protection authorities in accordance with applicable laws. 

7. Cookies: This website uses cookies to better the users experience while visiting the website. Where applicable this website uses a cookie control system allowing the user on their first visit to the website to allow or disallow the use of cookies on their computer / device. This complies with recent legislation requirements for websites to obtain explicit consent from users before leaving behind or reading files such as cookies on a user’s computer / device. Cookies are small files saved to the user’s computer hard drive that track, save and store information about the user’s interactions and usage of the website. This allows the website, through its server to provide the users with a tailored experience within this website. Users are advised that if they wish to deny the use and saving of cookies from this website on to their computers hard drive they should take necessary steps within their web browsers security settings to block all cookies from this website and its external serving vendors, and we are not held accountable if the 3rd party cookie notification does not add a cookie to your computer or device, if you have concerns please email us straight away at hello@compareyourtech.com or we will not be held responsible for collecting such data through the cookies provided through any of our third party software used. This website uses tracking software to monitor its visitors to better understand how they use it. This software is provided by Google Analytics which uses cookies to track visitor usage. The software will save a cookie to your computer hard drive in order to track and monitor your engagement and usage of the website, but will not store, save or collect personal information. You can read Google’s privacy policy here for further information [ http://www.google.com/privacy.html ]. Other cookies may be stored to your computer hard drive by external vendors when this website uses referral programs, sponsored links or adverts. Such cookies are used for conversion and referral tracking and typically expire after 90 days, though some may take longer. No personal information is stored, saved or collected about your website browsing activities.
8. Email Newsletter

8.1 Subscription: CompareYourTech operates an email newsletter programme to inform subscribers about products and services offered by the Site and its third-party partners. Subscriptions may be automatic upon registration or voluntary through an online form. Subscribers must provide explicit consent to receive communications, and this consent will be recorded as part of their subscription. 

8.2 Compliance: The newsletter complies with UK Spam Laws under the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003 and the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR). Personal details related to subscriptions are securely stored and not shared with third parties without explicit consent. Subscribers are given the opportunity to unsubscribe at any time through an automated system. This process is detailed at the footer of each email campaign. If an automated unsubscription system is unavailable, clear instructions on how to unsubscribe will be provided instead. 

8.3 Email Tracking: Email campaigns may contain tracking features, such as pixels or links, to monitor subscriber activity (e.g., open rates, click-through rates). This data is used to analyze and improve future email content and targeting. Subscribers have the option to opt-out of email tracking through their email client settings or by contacting us directly. 

8.4 Requesting Personal Information: Subscribers have the right to request a copy of the personal information held by the newsletter programme in accordance with their rights under data protection laws. Requests must be made in writing and may be subject to a reasonable fee to cover administrative costs. We will respond to such requests within the timeframes specified by applicable data protection regulations. 

8.5 Consent Management: Subscribers can manage their consent preferences for receiving marketing communications through a dedicated preference center available on the Site. This center allows subscribers to update their communication preferences, including opting in or out of specific types of content. 

8.6 Data Retention: Personal data collected through the email newsletter programme will be retained only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or as required by law. Subscribers will be notified of any changes to our data retention policies. 

8.7 Third-Party Service Providers: CompareYourTech may use third-party service providers to assist with the delivery and analysis of email campaigns. These providers are bound by confidentiality agreements and data protection obligations to ensure the security and confidentiality of subscriber information. 

8.8 Security Measures: We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect subscriber information from unauthorized access, loss, or alteration. This includes secure storage and transmission of data. 

8.9 Changes to Newsletter Terms: CompareYourTech reserves the right to update these terms at any time. Subscribers will be notified of any significant changes to the terms through the newsletter or other communication channels. Continued use of the newsletter after such changes constitutes acceptance of the updated terms. 

9. External Links and Sponsored Content

9.1 External Links: Although this website only looks to include quality, safe and relevant external links, users are advised adopt a policy of caution before clicking any external web links mentioned throughout this website. (External links are clickable text / banner / image links to other websites). The owners (also the companies we work with) of this website cannot guarantee or verify the contents of any externally linked website despite their best efforts. Users should therefore note they click on external links at their own risk and this website, and its owners cannot be held liable for any damages or implications caused by visiting any external links mentioned. 

9.2 Sponsored Links: This website may contain sponsored links and adverts. These will typically be served through our advertising partners, to whom may have detailed privacy policies relating directly to the adverts they serve. Clicking on any such adverts will send you to the advertisers’ website through a referral program which may use cookies and will track the number of referrals sent from this website. This may include the use of cookies, which may in turn be saved on your computer hard drive. Users should therefore note they click on sponsored external links at their own risk and this website, and its owners cannot be held liable for any damages or implications caused by visiting any external links mentioned, compareyourtech may also receive an affiliate commission for any successful sales from clicking on these links. CompareYourTech is committed to complying with all applicable advertising regulations, including the disclosure of material connections in affiliate and sponsored content. Any affiliate links, sponsored content, or paid promotions on the Site will be clearly identified as such. Users who participate in CompareYourTech’s affiliate program must also comply with applicable disclosure requirements when promoting products or services. 

10. Social Media and Shortened Links

10.1 Social Media Interaction: Engagement on external social media platforms linked to the Site is subject to the respective platform’s terms and conditions. Users should protect their privacy and avoid sharing sensitive information on these platforms.   

Communication, engagement and actions taken through external social media platforms that this website and its owners participate on are custom to the terms and conditions as well as the privacy policies held with each social media platform respectively. 

Users are advised to use social media platforms wisely and communicate / engage upon them with due care and caution regarding their own privacy and personal details. This website nor its owners will ever ask for personal or sensitive information through social media platforms and encourage users wishing to discuss sensitive details to contact them through primary communication channels such as by telephone or email. 

This website may use social sharing buttons which help share web content directly from web pages to the social media platform in question. Users are advised before using such social sharing buttons that they do so at their own discretion and note that the social media platform may track and save your request to share a web page respectively through your social media platform account. You agree that you will also make clear that you are promoting a third party brand when using any website or affiliate links from CompareYourTech, we will take no responsibility if you do not comply with the laws within your country for promoting third party companies, here are some useful guidelines: https://www.asa.org.uk/advice-online/affiliate-marketing.html however it is your responsibility to comply with this laws and we will take no responsibility for any outcome if you do not comply. 

10.2 Shortened URLs: CompareYourTech may share shortened URLs on social media. Users should exercise caution before clicking on these links, as they may be vulnerable to spam or hacking. 

This website and its owners through their social media platform accounts may share web links to relevant web pages. By default, some social media platforms shorten lengthy URLs [web addresses]. 

Users are advised to take caution and good judgement before clicking any shortened URLs published on social media platforms by this website and its owners. Despite the best efforts to ensure only genuine URLs are published many social media platforms are prone to spam and hacking and therefore this website and its owners cannot be held liable for any damages or implications caused by visiting any shortened links. 

11. Affiliate Program

11.1 Right to Refuse Service: CompareYourTech reserves the right to refuse service to any affiliate at its sole discretion, with or without cause. The company can reject or exclude affiliates, webmasters, or websites at any time, regardless of previous agreements. 

11.2 Affiliate Warranties: Affiliates warrant that they are at least 18 years old, legally capable of entering into binding agreements, and have the rights to all content used on their websites or newsletters. Affiliates also agree to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. 

12. Use of Third-Party Services

12.1 HubSpot: The Site may use HubSpot for customer relationship management and marketing automation. HubSpot’s terms and privacy policies apply to their services. For more details, please review HubSpot’s Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. 

12.2 WP Engine Hosting: The Site is hosted by WP Engine in the UK, a third-party hosting provider. WP Engine’s terms and privacy policies apply to their hosting services. For more details, please review WP Engine’s Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. 

13. Charges

13.1 Charges for Buyers: The Site is free for buyers to use. Buyers can access and utilise the Site’s features without incurring any charges. 

13.2 Charges for Sellers (Vendors or Service Providers): Free Listings: Sellers can access basic listings on the Site at no cost. These free listings provide fundamental visibility but may have limited features compared to paid options. Paid Listings: Sellers may choose from additional pricing packages, either Premium (Monthly) or Premium (Year) options. These packages involve listing fees as detailed in the pricing information published on the Site. Additional Packages: Other packages and promotional options may be available from time to time, as listed on the Site in the Deals or Pricing sections. Enhanced Listings: If a seller with a free listing opts to upgrade to a paid package, they will receive an enhanced listing as detailed on the pricing page of the Site. 

13.3 Affiliate Programs: Affiliate Commissions: When CompareYourTech participates in a seller’s affiliate program, CompareYourTech may receive payments in accordance with the terms of that affiliate program. Sellers who are part of such affiliate programs will be required to pay any affiliate commissions as specified in the terms of their respective programs, which CompareYourTech is enrolled in.  

Listing Fees and Affiliate Commissions: A seller who includes CompareYourTech in their affiliate program may also choose to subscribe to a paid listing on the CompareYourTech site. In such cases, affiliate commissions will be paid to CompareYourTech in addition to any applicable listing fees or charges for enhanced listing packages selected by the seller. 

14 Account Suspension and Termination: CompareYourTech reserves the right to suspend or terminate your account and access to the Site at its sole discretion, with or without notice, if it determines that you have violated these Terms, engaged in fraudulent or illegal activities, or for any other reason deemed necessary by CompareYourTech. Upon termination, your right to use the Site will immediately cease, and any data or content you have on the Site may be deleted without further notice. 

15 Content Removal Rights: CompareYourTech reserves the right to remove, edit, or disable access to any content on the Site that it deems to violate these Terms, infringe intellectual property rights, or be harmful to users. CompareYourTech may remove such content at its sole discretion, without notice to the user who provided the content. Users whose content has been removed may be notified and given the opportunity to appeal the decision. 

16. 16. Dispute Resolution: In the event of any dispute arising out of or in connection with these Terms or your use of the Site, the parties agree to first attempt to resolve the dispute through good faith negotiations. If the dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation within 30 days, the parties agree to resolve the dispute through binding arbitration under the rules of the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA). The place of arbitration shall be London, England, and the language of the arbitration shall be English. The decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding on the parties. Any disputes arising out of or relating to these Terms that are not resolved through arbitration shall be brought exclusively in the courts of England and Wales. You agree to submit to the personal jurisdiction of these courts.
17. 17. Revisions to Terms and Conditions: CompareYourTech may revise these Terms and Conditions at any time by updating this page. Users are bound by any such revisions and should periodically review the current Terms and Conditions.

18 Force Majeure: CompareYourTech shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performing its obligations under these Terms due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorism, civil unrest, natural disasters, technical failures, or interruptions in internet services. In such cases, CompareYourTech’s obligations will be suspended for the duration of the event. 

19. 19. Modification of Services: CompareYourTech reserves the right to modify or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, the Site or any services offered on the Site, with or without notice, at any time. CompareYourTech shall not be liable to you or any third party for any modification, suspension, or discontinuance of the Site or services.
20. 20. Governing Law: These Terms are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising under or in connection with these Terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.
21. 21. Contact Information: 

21.1 Customer Support: For questions or concerns regarding these Terms, please contact CompareYourTech at hello@compareyourtech.com or through our contact page on the Site. 

21.2 Feedback: Users may provide feedback or suggestions about the Site or services through designated feedback channels. CompareYourTech appreciates user input and may incorporate suggestions as appropriate.