Data Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 14/12/2024

ML Skills Academy (“we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting your personal data and ensuring transparency in how we use artificial intelligence (AI) technologies as part of our services. This policy outlines how we collect, process, store, and share your data, ensuring compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the EU Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act), and other applicable European data protection laws.

By using our services, you agree to the terms of this policy.

1. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to all personal data processed by ML Skills Academy in connection with our platform, including data collected via our website, services, and AI-driven tools used in training workflows.

2. Data We Collect

We collect and process the following types of data:

2.1 Personal Data

Data provided directly by you, such as:

• Name, email address, phone number, job title, and organization.
• Billing information for payment purposes.
• Any information you provide when communicating with us.

2.2 Usage Data

Automatically collected data about your interactions with our website and platform, such as:

• IP address, browser type, operating system, device type.
• Pages visited, time spent on pages, and other user behaviors.

2.3 AI System Data

Data processed during the use of our AI-powered tools and training platform, such as:

• Anonymized performance metrics.
• Interaction data from AI-driven project simulations.

2.4 Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies to enhance your experience, analyze traffic, and provide personalized content. You can manage your cookie preferences in your browser settings. For more details, see our [Cookie Policy].

3. Legal Basis for Processing

We process personal data based on the following lawful grounds:

• Contractual Necessity: To provide services such as enrollment, account management, and access to our training platform.
• Consent: For marketing communications or optional services requiring explicit permission. You may withdraw consent at any time.
• Legitimate Interests: To improve our services, maintain security, and deliver relevant offerings. We ensure this does not override your privacy rights.
• Legal Obligations: To comply with European data protection laws, tax regulations, and AI Act requirements.

4. Use of AI Systems

In compliance with the AI Act, we disclose and manage our use of AI technologies as follows:

4.1 Transparency and User Awareness

• Our platform uses AI-driven tools to simulate real-world machine learning workflows and provide personalized recommendations.
• AI tools are clearly labeled, and users are informed when interacting with AI systems.

4.2 Purpose of AI Systems

AI is used to:

• Personalize training recommendations and feedback.
• Facilitate project simulations for practical learning experiences.
• Analyze anonymized usage patterns to improve service quality.

4.3 Human Oversight

All AI-driven outputs are monitored by qualified instructors. Users may request human intervention or appeal decisions made by AI systems, such as automated feedback or assessments.

4.4 Fairness and Bias Mitigation

Our AI systems undergo regular testing to prevent discriminatory outcomes. Training data is evaluated for accuracy, relevance, and compliance with GDPR and AI Act standards.

5. How We Use Your Data

We use your personal data to:

• Deliver our services, including managing accounts and providing training.
• Send relevant updates, offers, and marketing communications (with your consent).
• Analyze usage trends and improve platform functionality.
• Fulfill legal and regulatory requirements.

6. Data Sharing

We do not sell your personal data. However, we may share data with:

• Service Providers: Trusted third parties for payment processing, email delivery, and platform analytics. These providers are contractually obligated to protect your data.
• Regulatory Authorities: To comply with legal obligations under GDPR and the AI Act.
• Business Transfers: In the event of a merger or acquisition, your data may be transferred to the acquiring entity.

7. Data Retention

We retain your personal data only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy. Retention periods vary based on:

• Contractual Obligations: Data required for service delivery is retained for the duration of the contract.
• Legal Requirements: Data related to financial transactions is retained for a minimum of 6 years for tax purposes.
• Platform Analytics: Anonymized data may be retained for longer periods for research and service optimization.

8. Your Data Protection Rights

Under the GDPR, you have the following rights:

• Access: Request a copy of the data we hold about you.
• Rectification: Correct inaccuracies or incomplete data.
• Erasure (“Right to be Forgotten”): Request deletion of your data under specific conditions.
• Restriction: Request limited processing of your data.
• Portability: Receive your data in a structured, machine-readable format or request its transfer to another provider.
• Objection: Object to processing based on legitimate interests or direct marketing.
• Withdraw Consent: Revoke consent where it was the basis for processing.

To exercise your rights, contact us using the details provided in Section 12.

9. International Data Transfers

If your data is transferred outside the European Economic Area (EEA), we ensure compliance with GDPR using:

• Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) approved by the European Commission.
• Transfers to countries deemed to provide adequate data protection by the EU.

10. Security Measures

We use technical and organizational measures to protect your personal data, including:

• Encryption: All sensitive data is encrypted during transmission and storage.
• Access Control: Access to data is limited to authorized personnel.
• Regular Audits: Security practices are regularly reviewed to ensure compliance with GDPR and AI Act requirements.

11. Updates to This Policy

We may update this policy to reflect changes in regulations, technology, or our services. Updates will be published on this page, and the “Effective Date” will indicate the most recent revision.

12. Contact Us

For questions about this policy or to exercise your data rights, contact us at:

ML Skills Academy Limited
Registered in Ireland (Company No: 767583)
Email: [email protected]

We are committed to ensuring your privacy and compliance with GDPR and the European AI Act.