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grland.com operates with a commitment to user privacy and transparency regarding the use of technology. This Cookies Policy explains how and why cookies and similar tools are utilized, ensuring lawful and responsible data processing on an international level.

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info(dot)grland.com

1.1 Legal Identity of the Website

The website www.grland.com
 (hereinafter the “Website” or “grland”) operates as an international news and journalistic medium and is owned by GRLAND MEDIA (hereinafter the “Company”). The Company bears full responsibility for the management, operation, editorial supervision, content curation, and technical infrastructure of the Website. It operates in the fields of news reporting, journalism, and digital content provision and addresses an international audience without geographical restrictions through online access. The content published on grland covers topics related to:

  • Greece,
  • the European Union, and
  • third countries outside the EU, including, indicatively, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada, and Australia.

Access to the Website does not require mandatory user registration and is technically possible from any country. This global accessibility necessitates the application of enhanced standards for the protection of users’ privacy and personal data.

1.2 Company Seat & Applicable Legal Framework

The Company is established in Greece, a Member State of the European Union. Accordingly, it is primarily subject to the European and Greek legal framework governing the protection of personal data. This Cookie Policy applies uniformly to all visitors and users of the Website, regardless of:

  • place of residence,
  • nationality, or
  • the country from which access to the Website is obtained.

The processing of personal data through cookies and similar technologies is carried out in accordance with:

  • Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (General Data Protection Regulation – GDPR),
  • Directive 2002/58/EC (ePrivacy Directive), as applicable, and
  • the applicable Greek legislation on data protection and confidentiality of communications.

For users located outside the European Union (including, indicatively, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia), the Company applies an equivalent and substantially comparable level of data protection, aligned with:

  • the principles of the UK GDPR and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) for the United Kingdom,
  • the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), as amended by the CPRA, for users in the United States,
  • the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) for Canada, and
  • the Privacy Act 1988 for Australia,
  • to the extent that such frameworks are applicable by analogy and without limiting the rights afforded under European Union law.

1.3 Contact, Data Protection Officer & Jurisdiction

For any matter relating to:

  • the use of cookies,
  • the processing of personal data,
  • consent management, or
  • the exercise of data subject rights,

users may contact the Company’s Data Protection Officer (DPO) at: dpo@grland.com

All requests are examined diligently and within the time limits prescribed by applicable law. This Cookie Policy is governed by and interpreted in accordance with:

  • Greek law, and
  • European Union law.

Any dispute arising in connection with the application, interpretation, or validity of this Policy shall fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of the Hellenic Republic, without prejudice to any mandatory

2.1 Scope of Application of the Policy

This Cookie Policy applies to every visit, access, and use of the website www.grland.com (hereinafter the “Website”), regardless of:

  • the device used (desktop or laptop computer, mobile phone, tablet, etc.),
  • the operating system or web browser, or
  • the access technology or method of internet connection.

This Policy covers the use of cookies and similar technologies on:

  • all pages of the Website,
  • any digital service or functional environment provided through the Website, and
  • any technical or operational infrastructure operating directly or indirectly under the control of the Company.

The application of this Policy:

  • both casual visitors and, where applicable, registered users,
  • and enters into force from the moment of the user’s first access to the Website, regardless of whether the user proceeds to any further interaction.

2.2 Geographic Reach of Users

grland addresses an international audience and provides news and journalistic content accessible to users both within and outside the European Union. In particular, the Website is addressed, without limitation, to users located in:

  • Greece,
  • Member States of the European Union,
  • the United Kingdom,
  • the United States of America,
  • Canada,
  • Australia, and
  • other third countries.

Access to the Website is not subject to geographic restrictions and is permitted from any country, subject to:

  • applicable law,
  • the Website’s Terms of Use, and
  • this Cookie Policy.

The international accessibility of the Website does not, in itself, constitute establishment or physical presence of the Company in third countries.

2.3 Unified and Enhanced Level of Data Protection

Regardless of the user’s country of origin, residence, or access, the Company applies a uniform, enhanced, and consistent level of personal data protection in relation to the use of cookies and similar technologies. This level of protection is based primarily on:

  • the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR),
  • the ePrivacy Directive, and
  • the fundamental principles of lawfulness, transparency, necessity, and security.

The adoption of a unified protection standard aims to:

  • avoid differentiation based on geographic location,
  • ensure equal treatment of all users, and
  • maintain high standards of privacy protection at a global level.

2.4 Relationship with Non-EU Local Legal Frameworks

For users located outside the European Union, the Company takes into account, where applicable, the core privacy protection principles provided under relevant local legal frameworks, including indicatively:

  • the UK GDPR and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) in the United Kingdom,
  • the CCPA/CPRA in the United States of America,
  • the PIPEDA in Canada, and
  • the Privacy Act 1988 in Australia.

The application of this Policy:

does not limit any additional rights granted to users under mandatory local legislation, nor does it reduce the level of protection afforded under the European legal framework. In all cases, the interpretation that ensures the highest possible level of protection of the user’s personal data shall prevail.

This section aims to clarify the key concepts used throughout this Cookie Policy.
The definitions set out below are interpreted in accordance with applicable European and international data protection law and apply uniformly throughout this Policy.

3.1 Cookies

Cookies are small text files or sets of data stored on the user’s device (computer, mobile phone, tablet, or other terminal device) when visiting or interacting with a website. Cookies enable the Website to:

  • recognise the user’s device,
  • store user choices and preferences (such as language or consent settings),
  • support essential technical functions, and
  • enhance the functionality, security, and performance of browsing.

Cookies are not used to directly identify natural persons. However, in certain cases, data collected through cookies may constitute or be associated with personal data, particularly when combined with other identifiers or information, in accordance with the applicable legal definition. The use of cookies by the Company is carried out exclusively in accordance with:

  • this Cookie Policy,
  • the Website’s Privacy Policy, and
  • the applicable legislative and regulatory provisions in force.

3.2 Similar Technologies (Trackers)

Similar technologies or tracking mechanisms (“trackers”) refer to technical means that operate in a manner comparable or complementary to cookies and enable the collection or transmission of information relating to the use of the Website.

Such technologies may include, indicatively:

  • web beacons,
  • pixels,
  • embedded scripts,
  • software development kits (SDKs), and
  • other automated tracking or measurement mechanisms.

These technologies may be:

  • implemented directly by the Company, or
  • provided by third-party service providers, who may act either as data processors or as independent data controllers, depending on the circumstances.

The use of similar technologies is subject to the same principles of lawfulness, transparency, and proportionality that apply to cookies.

3.3 Personal Data

Personal data means any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person, as defined in Article 4(1) of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Such data may include, indicatively:

  • technical device data,
  • IP addresses,
  • cookie identifiers or identifiers of similar technologies,
  • navigation or user behaviour data,
  • insofar as the above can be directly or indirectly linked to a specific natural person.

The processing of personal data through cookies or similar technologies is carried out only:

  • where a lawful basis for processing exists,
  • in accordance with the principles of data minimisation, security, and transparency, and
  • exclusively for the purposes described in this Policy.

3.4 User

A “User” means any natural person who:

  • visits,
  • browses, or
  • interacts in any manner
  • with the Website www.grland.com,
  • regardless of whether they are a casual visitor, a returning user, or a registered member (where applicable).

The term “User” includes any person accessing the Website from any device or geographic location.

3.5 Consent

Consent means the freely given, specific, informed, and unambiguous indication of the user’s wishes by which the user agrees to the use of specific categories of cookies or similar technologies, in accordance with Article 4(11) and Article 7 of the GDPR.

Consent:

  • is provided through an active choice (e.g. via a consent mechanism or banner),
  • is recorded in a manner that allows proof of consent, and
  • may be withdrawn at any time, as easily as it was given.

The withdrawal of consent does not affect the lawfulness of processing based on consent before its withdrawal.

3.6 Company

“Company” means Hellenic Nexus Media & Services, which acts as the lawful operator and controller of the Website and bears responsibility for compliance with the applicable data protection legal framework, as defined in the Legal Identity section of this Policy.

This Cookie Policy constitutes an integral and essential part of the overall policy framework governing access to and use of the website www.grland.com (hereinafter the “Website”).

This Cookie Policy:

  • operates in conjunction with the Privacy Policy and the Terms of Use,
  • must be read and interpreted together with the above documents, and
  • forms part of a unified, coherent, and interrelated set of rules governing the operation of the Website.

The application of this Policy is neither autonomous nor fragmented. It forms part of a comprehensive regulatory framework that governs, in particular:

  • the collection and use of technical data,
  • the processing of personal data, and
  • the protection of users’ privacy during browsing.

4.2 Relationship with the Privacy Policy

The Website’s Privacy Policy describes in detail:

  • the purposes and lawful bases for the processing of personal data,
  • the rights of users as data subjects,
  • the technical and organisational security measures implemented by the Company, and
  • the procedures for exercising rights and contacting the Company.

This Cookie Policy:

  • specifically regulates the use of cookies and similar technologies, and
  • governs the manner in which such technologies are used as means or tools of data processing.

In all cases where, through cookies or similar technologies, personal data are:

  • collected,
  • stored, or
  • otherwise processed,

the provisions of the Privacy Policy apply concurrently and cumulatively, without exception or limitation.

4.3 Relationship with the Terms of Use

The Terms of Use govern general access to, browsing of, and use of the Website, as well as users’ rights and obligations in relation to the content and services provided.

This Cookie Policy:

  • does not amend, replace, or automatically prevail over the Terms of Use,
  • but supplements them solely with regard to the use of tracking, monitoring, and information storage technologies on the user’s device.

It is expressly clarified that:

  • acceptance of the Terms of Use or mere access to the Website
  • does not automatically constitute acceptance of all categories of cookies.

The use of non-essential cookies is subject to a separate, explicit, and active user choice, in accordance with the applicable legal framework.

4.4 Precedence of Provisions & Interpretative Priority

In the event of any:

  • conflict,
  • ambiguity, or
  • divergence

between this Cookie Policy and other policies, terms, or documents of the Website, the following interpretative principle shall apply:

The more specific and stricter provisions relating to:

  • the protection of personal data,
  • the use of cookies and similar technologies, and
  • users’ privacy

shall prevail, in accordance with the applicable national, European, and international legal framework. This precedence applies without prejudice to:

  • mandatory provisions of law,
  • users’ rights arising under local legislation, or
  • the Company’s obligations towards competent supervisory authorities.

This Cookie Policy is drafted and implemented with the objective of full compliance with the applicable national, European, and international legal framework governing the protection of personal data, as well as the regulatory requirements relating to the storage of or access to information on the user’s device.

5.1 European Legal Framework

The use of cookies and similar technologies on the Website is governed primarily by the European data protection regulatory framework, in particular:

  • Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (General Data Protection Regulation – GDPR), and
  • Directive 2002/58/EC (ePrivacy Directive), as in force and implemented through the national legislation of the Member States.

This framework regulates, inter alia:

  • the conditions under which the storage of or access to information on the user’s terminal equipment is permitted,
  • the transparency and information requirements prior to the use of cookies,
  • the conditions for obtaining valid consent for non-essential technologies, and
  • the rights of users as data subjects.

The Company applies the above provisions in accordance with the guidelines, recommendations, and case law of the competent European supervisory authorities.

5.2 Greek Legislation & Supervisory Framework

As a company established in Greece, the Company is additionally subject to the Greek legal framework which:

  • implements,
  • specifies, and
  • supplements

the European Union data protection law. The relevant provisions of Greek legislation apply in parallel and cumulatively with the GDPR and the ePrivacy Directive, without reducing the level of protection afforded to users. The Company takes into account the decisions, guidelines, and recommendations of the Hellenic Data Protection Authority (HDPA), insofar as they relate to the use of cookies, consent mechanisms, and electronic privacy.

5.3 International Audience & Equivalent Level of Protection

Due to the international nature of the Website, the Company applies a uniform and enhanced level of data protection to all users, regardless of their geographic location. This level of protection is substantially equivalent to that provided under the European legal framework and is applied, indicatively, to users located in:

  • the United Kingdom (UK GDPR & PECR),
  • the United States of America (CCPA / CPRA, where applicable),
  • Canada (PIPEDA), and
  • Australia (Privacy Act 1988).

The adoption of a unified protection standard aims to:

  • ensure consistent and predictable treatment of all users,
  • reduce regulatory fragmentation, and
  • maintain high standards of privacy protection at a global level.

5.4 Compliance with Platforms, Providers & Third-Party Services

The Company may, where applicable, cooperate with third-party providers of technology, analytics tools, hosting services, or advertising ecosystems. Within this context, the Company:

  • takes into account the compliance requirements imposed by relevant platforms,
  • assesses their compatibility with the applicable data protection legal framework, and
  • ensures that the use of such services does not undermine its obligations towards users.

In all cases, compliance with third-party requirements:

  • does not prevail over the applicable legal framework, nor
  • does it lead to a reduction of the level of protection described in this Cookie Policy.

5.5 Monitoring, Review & Adaptation

The regulatory and legal framework governing the use of cookies and the protection of personal data is subject to continuous developments at both European and international level. Accordingly, the Company:

  • systematically monitors relevant legislative, regulatory, and case-law developments,
  • assesses their impact on the operation of the Website, and
  • updates or adapts this Cookie Policy where required.

Any amendments enter into force upon publication on the Website, unless otherwise required by applicable law.

The Website uses cookies and similar tracking technologies in order to ensure its technically sound and secure operation, to improve the browsing experience, and—where the user explicitly chooses—to collect statistical information, analyse performance, or personalise content and advertising. These technologies are classified into distinct categories based on their function, processing purpose, and applicable legal basis. This categorisation aims to provide users with clear, understandable, and transparent information and to facilitate the effective exercise of their consent choices. Each category of cookies is activated exclusively in accordance with the user’s explicit selections via the Website’s cookie management mechanism and in compliance with the applicable national, European, and international legal framework.

6.1 General Categorisation of Cookies & Technologies

Cookies and related technologies used on the Website are divided into categories reflecting their role in the operation and delivery of the Website’s services. This distinction allows users to clearly understand which data may be processed, for what purpose, and under which conditions. The Company does not adopt a uniform or indiscriminate approach to the use of cookies. On the contrary, it applies the principle of exception-based activation, particularly with regard to technologies that are not strictly necessary, ensuring that such technologies remain inactive until valid user consent is provided.

6.2 Strictly Necessary Cookies

Strictly necessary cookies are essential for the basic, secure, and technically reliable operation of the Website. Without them, the Website would not be able to function properly or deliver its content securely. Cookies in this category are used exclusively for purposes such as:

  • managing the user session,
  • ensuring security and protection against malicious or unauthorised actions,
  • storing consent preferences, and
  • supporting the Website’s core technical functionality.

The use of strictly necessary cookies is not subject to consent, as it is based on the legally recognised exemption for technologies required to provide a service expressly requested by the user.

6.3 Performance & Analytics Cookies

Performance and analytics cookies are used to collect information about how users interact with the Website, such as pages visited, browsing duration, traffic sources, or general usage patterns. This information is used exclusively for statistical analysis, technical evaluation, and improvement of the Website’s structure, functionality, and content. The processing does not aim at the direct identification of users nor at the creation of profiles of natural persons. Cookies in this category are activated only after the user’s explicit consent, through the Website’s cookie management mechanism, and remain inactive until such consent is provided.

6.4 Functional Cookies

Functional cookies enable the Website to remember choices and settings made by the user, such as display preferences, language selection, or other customised options, in order to provide a more tailored browsing experience. Disabling these cookies does not affect basic access to the Website’s content but may limit certain personalised or secondary features. The use of functional cookies is subject to user consent, unless, in clearly defined cases, such cookies serve a strictly necessary technical function, in which case they are classified and treated as strictly necessary.

6.5 Advertising Cookies

Advertising and targeting cookies are used to display content or advertisements that are more relevant to users’ estimated interests and to measure the performance and effectiveness of advertising activities. Their use may involve analysing browsing behaviour on the Website and, in certain cases, cooperation with third-party advertising platforms or networks, without direct identification of the user. Activation of this category occurs only after the user has provided explicit, specific, and informed consent through the cookie consent mechanism. Refusal of advertising cookies does not affect access to the Website but may limit the degree of personalisation of displayed content.

6.6 Third-Party Cookies

The Website may allow the installation of cookies from third-party service providers in the context of integrating technical functionalities, analytics tools, advertising services, or external content. Third-party cookies are installed and managed in accordance with the respective providers’ privacy policies, for which the Company bears no responsibility. Such cookies fall within the relevant categories (Performance, Functional, or Advertising) and are activated only in accordance with the user’s consent choices.

6.7 Embedded Content & Tracking Technologies

The Website may include embedded content such as videos, graphics, widgets, or social media features. Such embedded content may use tracking technologies similar to cookies, even without direct user interaction. The loading and operation of such content are carried out in accordance with the user’s consent preferences and the technical capabilities of the Website. Where required, embedded content remains inactive until the relevant consent is provided.

The Company processes data through cookies and similar technologies exclusively in accordance with the applicable personal data protection legal framework. The lawful basis for processing is determined by the nature, purpose, and necessity of each category of cookies, while retention periods are strictly limited to what is absolutely necessary.

7.1 Lawful Basis for the Use of Cookies

The use of cookies and similar technologies on the Website is based on different lawful bases, depending on the role fulfilled by each category. Strictly necessary cookies are used exclusively for purposes related to the technical operation, security, and stability of the Website. Processing carried out through such cookies is necessary for the provision of the service expressly requested by the user and for compliance with technical and regulatory requirements. For this reason, the use of strictly necessary cookies does not require user consent and is based on the Company’s legitimate interest, as well as on the relevant statutory exemptions provided under the applicable legal framework. By contrast, the use of performance, analytics, functional, advertising, targeting, or third-party cookies is carried out only where the user has provided prior, explicit, and active consent. Such consent constitutes the lawful basis for processing and is provided through the Website’s cookie management mechanism, in accordance with this Cookie Policy. The Company does not process data through non-essential cookies without a valid lawful basis and does not substitute consent with alternative legal bases in contravention of the applicable legal framework.

7.2 Cookie Retention Periods

Cookies are stored on the user’s device for a period determined by their purpose and functional nature. Some cookies are session-based and are automatically deleted when the browser is closed, while others may remain stored for a predefined period. In all cases, the Website does not use cookies for longer than is necessary and proportionate for the fulfilment of the relevant processing purpose. Retention periods are reviewed periodically and adjusted where required to ensure compliance with the principles of data minimisation and purpose limitation.

7.3 Retention of Data Collected Through Cookies

Data collected or generated through cookies and similar technologies are retained only for as long as required to achieve the respective processing purposes or until the user withdraws their consent, where consent constitutes the lawful basis for processing. Upon expiry of the applicable retention period or withdrawal of consent, such data are:

  • deleted, or
  • anonymised,

in accordance with the Company’s applicable technical and organisational procedures, in a manner that prevents further identification of users. The Company does not retain data collected through cookies for purposes incompatible with those for which they were initially collected.

The Company strictly applies the fundamental principles of privacy and personal data protection in relation to the use of cookies and similar technologies on the Website. Any technology involving the storage of or access to information on the user’s device is implemented in accordance with the principles of lawfulness, transparency, necessity, and proportionality, as provided under the applicable European and international legal framework. The Company ensures that users retain full control over their choices and that no non-essential technology is activated without prior, valid consent.

8.1 Privacy by Default (Default Deactivation)

The Website operates on the principle of default deactivation of all cookies that are not strictly necessary. From the user’s first visit, only cookies that are technically necessary for the basic operation, security, stability, and proper display of the Website are activated. All other categories of cookies remain inactive until the user makes an explicit and active choice through the cookie management mechanism. The absence of user action or selection is never interpreted as consent. This approach ensures that privacy protection is applied by default, without requiring any action on the part of the user.

8.2 Explicit and Active Consent for Non-Essential Cookies (Opt-In)

The use of cookies that are not classified as strictly necessary—such as analytics, functional, preference, advertising, or third-party cookies—is carried out only after the user has provided prior, explicit, and active consent. Consent is granted solely through a clear affirmative action and is based on prior, understandable, and complete information regarding the nature and purpose of each cookie category.

8.3 Modification and Withdrawal of Consent

Users retain the right to modify or withdraw their consent at any time through the available cookie management tool on the Website. The withdrawal process is as simple and accessible as the process of granting consent. Withdrawal of consent applies prospectively and does not affect the lawfulness of processing carried out prior to the withdrawal. Changes to the user’s preferences are applied without undue delay, insofar as this is technically feasible.

8.4 Recording and Proof of Consent

The Company implements appropriate technical and organisational measures to record users’ consent choices solely for the purpose of compliance with the applicable legal framework. Such recording includes only the strictly necessary information required to demonstrate consent—such as the time and content of the choice—and is not used for tracking, behavioural analysis, or profiling purposes. These records are retained only for the period necessary to ensure regulatory compliance and legal certainty.

The Website maintains a detailed and up-to-date cookie table, which records all categories of cookies and similar tracking technologies that may be used during browsing and use of its services. The cookie table constitutes a key transparency tool and aims to:

  • provide users with full and clear information,
  • facilitate understanding of how cookies function, and
  • support free and informed decision-making with regard to consent.

The cookie table operates in conjunction with this Cookie Policy and does not replace the information provided in the main body of the Policy, but rather specifies it at a practical and operational level.

9.2 Content & Information Included in the Cookie Table

For each cookie or tracking technology used or potentially used on the Website, the cookie table provides detailed information enabling users to understand its role and function. Indicatively, the table includes information such as:

  • the name of the cookie or technology,
  • its provider or origin (e.g. first-party or third-party),
  • the purpose of use,
  • the category to which it belongs, and
  • the duration of storage on the user’s device.

This information is presented in a clear and comprehensible manner, without technical ambiguity or misleading wording, allowing users to accurately assess the use of each cookie.

9.3 Relationship Between the Cookie Table & User Consent

The cookie table is functionally linked to the Website’s cookie management mechanism and reflects the categories and technologies that may be activated based on the user’s consent choices. The inclusion of a cookie in the table:

  • does not automatically result in its activation, and
  • does not override the principle of default deactivation for non-essential cookies.

Activation of each cookie category takes place exclusively in accordance with the user’s explicit choices and the applicable legal framework.

9.4 Dynamic Nature & Updating of the Cookie Table

The cookie table has a dynamic nature and may be updated in order to reflect:

  • technical changes in the operation of the Website,
  • the integration of new services or tools, or
  • the use of additional tracking technologies.

Any updates are carried out in a manner that ensures:

  • continued compliance with the applicable legal framework,
  • the preservation of users’ rights to choose and withdraw consent, and
  • transparency regarding the use of new or modified cookies.

In the event of material changes affecting the use of non-essential cookies, the Company provides renewed information and, where required, requests renewed user consent. A detailed list of the cookies used by our Website is available in the final section titled “Contact & Final Provisions.”

The Company acknowledges that the use of cookies, tracking technologies, and digital advertising tools may, in certain cases, involve data processing with an international dimension. For this reason, the Company applies enhanced compliance and transparency measures in order to ensure a high level of protection of users’ privacy, regardless of their geographic location.

10.1 Transfers of Data Outside the European Union

In the context of using cookies and similar technologies, personal data may, in certain cases, be transferred to countries outside the European Union or the European Economic Area, particularly where third-party services, infrastructures, or technological tools are used that are established or operated outside the EU. In such cases, the Company ensures that any transfer is carried out in accordance with the applicable European and national legal framework, and in particular with Chapter V of the GDPR. Appropriate safeguards are applied, such as:

  • adequacy decisions issued by the European Commission,
  • standard contractual clauses (SCCs), or
  • other lawful transfer mechanisms provided for under the GDPR,

in order to ensure a level of data protection that is essentially equivalent to that guaranteed within the European Union. The Company assesses, on a case-by-case basis, the risks associated with international data transfers and implements the necessary technical and organisational measures to mitigate such risks.

10.2 Advertising Technologies & Performance Measurement

The Website may use technologies related to the display of advertising content and the measurement of its effectiveness. Such technologies allow the analysis of users’ responses to advertising activities, the statistical evaluation of reach and performance, and the improvement of the overall browsing experience. The use of these technologies takes place only to the extent that the user has provided the relevant consent, in accordance with the choices available through the Website’s cookie management mechanism. The Company does not activate advertising technologies without a prior valid lawful basis.

10.3 Interest-Based Advertising & Limitations

Where a user consents to the use of advertising or targeting cookies, content or advertisements may be displayed based on estimated interests or general browsing patterns. This practice aims solely at presenting content that is considered more relevant to the user and does not involve direct identification of natural persons. The Company does not use such information to create profiles that produce legal or similarly significant effects for users. In all cases, the use of interest-based advertising is strictly limited by the applicable legal framework and by the user’s consent choices.

10.4 User Control & Limitation of Advertising Use

Users retain full control over the use of cookies and technologies related to advertising practices. They may restrict or disable the relevant categories either through the Website’s cookie management mechanism or through their browser settings. The choice to restrict or disable advertising cookies does not affect the basic operation of or access to the Website’s content. However, it may limit the degree of personalisation of displayed advertising content.

10.5 International Privacy Signals & Technical Indicators

The Website takes into account, to the extent technically feasible and legally permissible, international mechanisms and technical signals relating to users’ privacy preferences, such as browser settings or preference signalling standards.

The application of such signals is carried out only where:

  • they are technically supported by the Website,
  • they are compatible with the applicable legal framework, and
  • they do not override the requirement for valid and demonstrable consent, where such consent is required.

The Company recognises and respects users’ rights in relation to the processing of personal data through cookies and similar technologies. The exercise of these rights constitutes a fundamental element of transparency and compliance and does not depend on the extent of use of the Website or on the user’s geographic location.

11.1 Rights of Users within the European Union and the United Kingdom

Users located within the European Union or the United Kingdom enjoy the rights provided for under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the corresponding framework of the UK GDPR, to the extent that their data are processed through cookies.

These rights include, inter alia:

  • the right of access to personal data relating to them,
  • the right to rectification of inaccurate or incomplete data,
  • the right to erasure,
  • the right to restriction of processing,
  • the right to object to specific forms of processing, and
  • the right to data portability, where technically feasible and legally applicable.

Users also retain the right to withdraw their consent to the use of non-essential cookies at any time. Such withdrawal does not affect the lawfulness of processing carried out prior to the withdrawal and applies prospectively. Where applicable, users have the right to lodge a complaint with the competent data protection supervisory authority.

11.2 Rights of Users Outside the European Union

Users located outside the European Union benefit from a substantially equivalent level of protection, in accordance with internationally recognised privacy principles and the provisions of this Cookie Policy. To the extent that local data protection frameworks apply in the users’ countries of residence, the rights provided for under such frameworks are recognised and respected, without limiting or reducing the level of protection afforded by this Policy. The Company seeks to ensure a unified and consistent approach to all user requests, regardless of geographic location, guided by transparency and respect for privacy.

11.3 Exercise of Rights & Request Handling Procedure

The rights described in this section may be exercised by submitting a request to the Company through the contact details provided in this Cookie Policy and in the Privacy Policy. The Company examines each request diligently and within the time limits prescribed by the applicable legal framework. Where necessary, additional information may be requested solely for the purpose of verifying the identity of the requesting user and preventing unauthorised access to personal data. Requests are fulfilled without undue delay, unless lawful grounds for restriction or exemption apply, in which case such grounds are communicated clearly to the user.

The Company treats the security of personal data processing as a fundamental obligation and an integral part of the lawful operation of the Website. The processing of data through cookies and similar technologies is carried out in a manner that ensures the protection of information against accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorised disclosure, or unauthorised access.

12.1 Security of Processing

The Company implements appropriate technical and organisational measures, taking into account the nature, scope, context, and purposes of processing, as well as the risks that may arise to the rights and freedoms of users.

These measures aim to ensure:

  • the confidentiality of data,
  • the integrity of information, and
  • the availability of the systems supporting the operation of the Website.

The adopted approach is based on the principle of proportionality and is dynamically adjusted to technological developments and evolving risk factors.

12.2 Technical and Organisational Protection Measures

The protection measures applied are not static but are reviewed and adapted on a regular basis.They may include, where appropriate, access control and restriction mechanisms, segregation of access rights, protection of technical infrastructure, and internal control procedures. In parallel, the Company implements organisational measures such as internal security policies, incident management procedures, and appropriate training of individuals involved in data processing, with the aim of reducing risks related to the human factor.

The selection and intensity of such measures are determined by:

  • the nature of the data that may be processed,
  • the purpose of cookie use, and
  • the level of risk arising from the specific processing activities.

12.3 Principle of Data Minimisation

The Company strictly applies the principle of data minimisation, limiting the collection and processing of information to what is strictly necessary for the achievement of each specific purpose.

No data are collected or processed that:

  • are irrelevant to the operation of the Website,
  • do not serve a legitimate and specified purpose, or
  • exceed what is necessary for the intended processing.

This principle is applied both at the design stage of the technologies used and through the ongoing assessment of their operation.

12.4 Automated Processing & Decision-Making

The use of cookies and similar technologies on the Website does not result in automated decision-making within the meaning of Article 22 of the GDPR that produces legal effects concerning users or similarly significantly affects them without human intervention. Any analysis or processing carried out through cookies is limited to statistical, technical, or functional purposes and is not used for automated evaluation or classification of users with binding or material consequences.

12.5 Minors & Protection of Children

The Website is not directed at minors and is not designed to collect personal data from individuals who have not reached the applicable minimum age threshold under the relevant legal framework. The Company does not knowingly collect personal data of minors through cookies or other technologies. Where it becomes aware that data of a minor have been collected in a manner not compliant with applicable law, such data are deleted without delay and the necessary measures are taken to prevent recurrence.

The operation of a modern news and information website may, in certain cases, require cooperation with third-party providers of technological or support services.
The Company manages such collaborations in a manner that ensures compliance with the applicable legal framework and respect for users’ privacy choices.

13.1 Third-Party Service Providers

The Website may use services provided by third parties in order to support functions such as, indicatively, content hosting, technical infrastructure, traffic analytics, multimedia content integration, or the display of advertising messages. In the context of providing their services, such third-party providers may install cookies or use similar tracking technologies. The use of these technologies takes place only to the extent that:

  • they are technically necessary for the operation of the respective service,
  • they are permitted by the user’s consent choices, and
  • they are allowed under the applicable legal framework.

These providers operate in accordance with their own privacy policies, which users are encouraged to review for more detailed information.

13.2 Company Responsibility & Limitation of Control

The Company does not exercise full control over the manner in which third-party providers process data through cookies or technologies operating outside the Company’s technical infrastructure. Such processing is governed by the terms and policies of the respective providers. Notwithstanding this limitation, the Company takes reasonable and proportionate measures in order to:

  • cooperate with providers that apply appropriate data protection standards,
  • assess, where feasible, the compatibility of their services with the applicable legal framework, and
  • avoid the activation of related technologies without a valid lawful basis or consent, where such consent is required.

The use of third-party services does not imply a transfer of the Company’s responsibility for the processing activities it performs itself within the Website.

13.3 Browser-Level Cookie Management by Users

In addition to the cookie management tools provided through the Website, users may also manage cookies via the settings of the web browser they use.

Through browser settings, users may:

  • restrict or disable the storage of cookies,
  • delete cookies already stored on their device, or
  • set preferences for specific websites.

The Company notes that disabling or restricting cookies at browser level may affect certain functionalities, the correct display, or the overall browsing experience on the Website, without limiting basic access to its content.

13.4 Combined Controls & Autonomy of User Choices

Cookie management may be exercised in combination, both through the Website’s cookie management mechanism and through the user’s browser settings. These options operate in parallel and independently and do not override:

  • the rights granted to users under this Cookie Policy, or
  • the ability to withdraw or modify consent.

The Company respects the choices made by users at any level and does not apply practices that circumvent or nullify the privacy settings selected by the user.

This section consolidates and governs all matters relating to the updating of this Cookie Policy, the management of information and external tools, communication with the Company, as well as the applicable law and jurisdiction. The provisions of this section operate in a complementary manner to the preceding sections and do not waive or limit any user rights arising under the applicable legal framework.

14.1 Updates, Review & Dynamic Nature of the Policy

This Cookie Policy constitutes a dynamic regulatory document and may be amended or updated in order to accurately reflect:

  • changes in the operation or structure of the Website,
  • the integration of new technologies, tools, or services,
  • modifications in cookie usage or tracking practices, and
  • developments in the applicable national, European, or international legal and regulatory framework.

The Company seeks to ensure that this Cookie Policy always reflects the actual technical and organisational operation of the Website and provides users with accurate, up-to-date, and clear information.

14.2 Entry into Force of Amendments & Legal Limits

Any amendment or revision of this Cookie Policy enters into force upon its publication on the Website, unless a different effective date is expressly stated or required by applicable law. Under no circumstances may amendments override requirements relating to valid consent for non-essential cookies. Where required by law, consent is requested again in a clear, active, and demonstrable manner.

14.3 Information & External Cookie Management Tools

For general information on how cookies work, online advertising practices, and available management options, users may consult independent third-party informational platforms, such as, indicatively:

cookieserve.com | cookiemetrix.com | youronlinechoices.eu

These websites operate independently from the Website and are governed by their own privacy policies and terms of use. The Company exercises no control over their content, accuracy, or practices and bears no responsibility for their use. Access to such services is at the user’s sole discretion. Cookies may also be managed through the settings of commonly used web browsers, such as Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Apple Safari.

14.4 Detailed Cookie List & Management

The Website provides a detailed and regularly updated list of cookies, setting out their categories, purposes of use, origin, and storage duration. This list is dynamically updated to reflect the actual technical operation of the Website. In addition to the Website’s cookie management mechanism, users may manage cookies through their browser settings. Partial or full disabling of cookies may affect certain functionalities or the overall browsing experience, without preventing basic access to the Website’s content. The Website uses the Google-recognised consent management plugin “CookieFirst.”

14.5 Data Transfers & Cooperation with Third Parties

The Company does not sell users’ personal data. Any transfer of data to third parties takes place only where a valid lawful basis exists, such as the provision of valid consent, necessity for service provision, or compliance with a legal obligation. In cases of technical or automated processing, data may be processed by cooperating service providers, in accordance with the user’s consent choices and subject to appropriate data protection safeguards.

14.6 Contact & Data Protection Officer (DPO)

For any matter relating to the use of cookies, the processing of personal data, or the application of this Cookie Policy, users may contact the Company via the contact details provided on the Website. For specialised data protection matters, users may contact the Company’s Data Protection Officer (DPO):

Georgios Samaridis | dpo@grland.com

All communications are handled diligently, confidentially, and in accordance with the applicable legal framework.

14.7 Applicable Law, Jurisdiction & Final Clause

This Cookie Policy is governed by and interpreted in accordance with Greek law and European Union law. Any dispute arising in connection with its application or interpretation falls within the jurisdiction of the courts of the Hellenic Republic, without prejudice to mandatory data subject protection provisions. Use of the Website constitutes acknowledgment of this Cookie Policy. In the event of material disagreement, users retain the right to refrain from using services that require the use of cookies.

Last updated: 27 December 2025

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This English version is provided for informational purposes and to facilitate understanding for non-Greek speakers. The Greek version constitutes the official and legally binding text. In the event of any discrepancy, the Greek version shall prevail.
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