Privacy & Cookie Policy

This Privacy & Cookie Policy explains how UK Business Network (UKBN) collects, uses, and protects your personal information in line with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), the Data Protection Act 2018, and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR).

1. Who We Are

UK Business Network (“UKBN”, “we”, “our”, “us”) is a UK-based membership platform providing business news, resources, and member perks to UK SMEs. You can contact us regarding this policy at:

Email: privacy@ukbn.co.uk
Address: UK Business Network, [Insert Registered Business Address]

2. What Data We Collect

Account information: name, email address, and password (stored securely using encryption and hashing).
Contact messages: details you send via forms or email.
Membership data: subscription status, login activity, and preferences.
Analytics data: anonymised usage statistics from cookies or analytics tools.
Affiliate interactions: click-through data when using external offers or comparison links.

3. How We Use Your Information

To create and manage your UKBN account and membership.
To deliver services such as news updates, resources, and member perks.
To send important information about your account or our platform.
To improve our services through analytics and feedback.
To meet legal obligations or resolve disputes.

4. Legal Basis for Processing

We process personal data on one or more of the following lawful bases:

Consent — when you agree to receive marketing or cookies.
Contract — to provide membership features and account management.
Legal obligation — to comply with UK law.
Legitimate interest — to maintain site security and improve services.

Cookies

UKBN uses essential cookies for login sessions and security, and optional cookies for analytics and performance.

You will see a cookie banner when visiting our site for the first time, allowing you to accept or reject non-essential cookies. You can change your preference at any time in your browser settings.

Types of cookies we use:

Essential cookies: required for login and site functionality.
Analytics cookies: help us understand usage (e.g. Google Analytics, Plausible).
Affiliate tracking cookies: used when you click partner offers; these are set by third-party networks and are covered by their own privacy policies.

6. How We Protect Your Data

We use secure servers, encryption, password hashing, and regular security updates to protect your data. Access to personal data is restricted to authorised personnel only.

7. How Long We Keep Your Data

We retain personal data only as long as necessary for the purposes set out above. Accounts inactive for more than 24 months may be anonymised or deleted.

8. Your Rights Under UK GDPR

Access your personal data.
Request correction or deletion.
Withdraw consent at any time.
Request data portability.
Complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if you believe your data rights have been infringed.

9. Third-Party Services

We may use third-party tools (such as payment processors, analytics providers, and affiliate networks). These companies only process your data to the extent necessary to provide their service.

10. International Data Transfers

If we transfer data outside the UK, we ensure adequate safeguards are in place in line with UK GDPR requirements.

11. Updates to This Policy

We may update this policy occasionally to reflect legal or operational changes. The latest version will always be available on this page.

12. Contact Us

For any privacy or cookie questions, please contact:
Email: privacy@ukbn.co.uk