Last updated May 4, 2026
This privacy notice discloses the privacy practices for this website
This Privacy Policy explains how The SME Forum (“we,” “us,” or “our”) collects, uses, and protects your personal and contact information when you visit https://thesmeforum.net, https://members.thesmeforum.net , or https//theforum.eventsmart.com or interact with our services. We are a wholly owned subsidiary of Thoth Advisory Services, LLC.
We are committed to protecting your privacy and complying with applicable data protection laws, including the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA/CPRA) for California residents and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for members in the European Economic Area (EEA) .
- Information We Collect
We collect information you voluntarily provide, such as when you:
– Register as a member
– Contact us or fill out forms
– Subscribe to emails or newsletters
– Interact with our website
Categories of personal data may include:
– Contact information (name, email address, phone number, organization)
– Professional details (job title, company affiliation)
– Marketing preferences and communication history
– Technical data (IP address, browser type, device information, cookies)
- How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
– Provide membership services and manage your account
– Send important updates, event invitations, and industry news
– Improve our website and member experience
– Comply with legal obligations
Email Marketing (Constant Contact)
We use Constant Contact to send emails to our members. When you provide your email address, it is securely shared with Constant Contact solely for the purpose of delivering our communications. Constant Contact maintains robust security measures, including encryption, access controls, and compliance with GDPR and other applicable laws. You can unsubscribe at any time using the link in every email.
- Legal Basis for Processing (GDPR – EEA Members)
For members in the European Economic Area, we process your data based on:
– Performance of a contract (your membership)
– Legitimate interests (improving services, marketing to existing members)
– Your consent (where required, e.g., certain marketing emails)
- Your Rights
CCPA/CPRA Rights (California Residents)
Under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), you have the right to:
– Know what personal information we have collected about you
– Delete your personal information (subject to exceptions)
– Opt-out of the sale or sharing of your personal information (we do not sell or share your data for cross-context behavioral advertising)
– Correct inaccurate information
– Limit use of sensitive personal information (if applicable)
– Non-discrimination for exercising your rights
How to Exercise Your Rights
To exercise any of these rights, please contact us:
Email: SMEForum@thesmeforum.net
Phone: +1-917-561-9553
We will respond to verified requests promptly (within one month for GDPR, 45 days for CCPA). We may ask for proof of identity.
You also have the right to complain to your local Data Protection Authority (EEA) or the California Attorney General (California).
GDPR Rights (EEA Members)
You have the right to:
– Access your personal data
– Rectify inaccurate data
– Request erasure (“Right to be Forgotten”)
– Restrict processing
– Object to processing (including marketing)
– Data portability
– Withdraw consent at any time
- Sharing Your Information
We NEVER sell or give away your personal and contact data. We may share it with:
– Service providers (e.g., Constant Contact for email, website hosting) who are contractually obligated to protect your data
– Professional advisors when necessary
– Law enforcement or regulators when legally required
- Google Analytics
We use Google Analytics to collect information about how our website is used (e.g., pages visited, time on site, referral sources). Google Analytics collects the IP address assigned to you on the date you visit this site, rather than your name or other identifying information. We use this data only to improve our website.
Google’s ability to use and share information collected by Google Analytics is restricted by the Google Analytics Terms of Service and the Google Privacy Policy . You can prevent Google Analytics from recognizing you on return visits by disabling cookies on your browser.
- AI and Automated Processing
In line with our commitment to innovation and the EU AI Act, we disclose that we may use automated systems or AI-driven tools to assist in organizing forum content, optimizing member communications, or enhancing website security. We do not use AI for “high-risk” profiling or automated decision-making that produces legal effects concerning our members.
- Data Security
We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information. However, no system is completely secure.
- Cookies and Tracking Technologies
We use cookies and similar technologies to improve your experience. You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings.
- Links to Other Sites
This website may contain links to other sites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices.
- Children’s Privacy
Our services are not directed to children under 16. We do not knowingly collect data from children.
- Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this policy from time to time. We will notify you of material changes by posting the new policy with an updated date.
- Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:
Email: SMEForum@thesmeforum.net
Phone: +1-917-561-9553