Last updated: 24 October 2026

Essex Locksmiths operates an online directory of independent locksmith businesses based in Essex. This policy explains how personal information may be processed when you use our website, contact us or submit a business listing.

1. Information We Collect

Depending on how you use the website, we may collect:

• Account details such as usernames and email addresses.
• Business names, trading information, service areas, contact numbers, websites and listing descriptions.
• Evidence submitted to support a business listing or verification request.
• Messages and correspondence sent to us.
• Technical information such as IP addresses, browser information and security logs.

Business information intended for publication may be displayed in the directory. Information supplied privately for verification should not be published unless there is a lawful reason and appropriate notice.

2. Why We Use Information

We process information to operate user accounts, review applications, publish approved listings, maintain directory accuracy, respond to enquiries, protect the website from abuse and comply with legal obligations.

Depending on the activity, our lawful bases under UK GDPR may include legitimate interests, steps taken before entering into a contract, performance of a contract, consent or compliance with legal obligations.

3. Public Business Listings

Approved listings may display the business name, telephone number, website, service areas and other information submitted for public display.

Customers contact listed locksmiths directly. Each locksmith is responsible for explaining how they handle personal information collected through their own business.

4. Cookies and Website Security

Our website may use essential cookies for account sessions, security and core functionality.

We use Cloudflare Turnstile on supported forms to help prevent automated abuse. This may involve processing technical information to assess whether a visitor is human.

If optional analytics, advertising or other non-essential technologies are enabled, we will provide appropriate information and consent controls where required.

5. Sharing Information

We may share necessary information with hosting providers, website technology providers and other processors supporting our directory. We may also disclose information where required by law.

Public listing information is accessible to website visitors. We do not act as an intermediary for customer bookings.

6. International Transfers

Some technology providers may process information outside the UK. Where applicable, we will use an appropriate transfer mechanism or other lawful protection required by UK data protection law.

7. Retention and Security

We retain personal information only for as long as reasonably necessary for the purpose collected, including account administration, directory accuracy, security, dispute handling and legal requirements.

We use reasonable technical and organisational measures to protect information, but no internet-based service can guarantee absolute security.

8. Your Rights

Depending on the circumstances, you may have rights to access, correct, erase or restrict processing of your personal information, object to certain processing, request portability or withdraw consent.

Contact us using the details above to exercise your rights. You may also complain to the UK Information Commissioner’s Office at ico.org.uk.

9. External Websites

Our directory links to independently operated locksmith websites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices. Review their policies before providing personal information.

10. Policy Changes

We may update this policy when our services, technology or legal obligations change. The latest version will appear on this page.