Policy on the Prevention of Sexual Abuse and Sexual Exploitation of Children

1. Introduction

hsp Handels-Software-Partner GmbH (hereinafter referred to as „hsp“) is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in all aspects of its business. This applies in particular to hsp’s software products and solutions (hereinafter collectively referred to as the „App“).

Although the app was developed for professional use in accounting and therefore does not interact directly with children or young people, we recognise the need to set out clear guidelines against content and behaviour that sexually exploits, abuses or endangers children. This policy serves as a basis for actively preventing and combating all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse of children.

2. Scope of the Directive

This policy applies to:

• • All users of the app: whether they are individuals, businesses or organisations.
  • All content that can be processed, stored or shared via the app.
  • All staff at hsp and partner organisations.

3. Prohibited content and behaviour

It is strictly forbidden to use the app for the following purposes:

1. 1. The creation, storage or distribution of content that sexually exploits, abuses or endangers children. This includes, amongst other things:

• • Images or videos depicting child sexual abuse (known as „Child Sexual Abuse Material“, CSAM).
  • Texts that promote or describe the sexual exploitation or abuse of children.
    1. Grooming and other forms of contact with children with the intention of sexual exploitation (even if the app is not primarily used for communication, this applies as a preventative measure to all potential avenues of interaction).
    2. Any use of the app or its data processing to blackmail children.
    3. Trafficking or other commercial activities carried out with the intention of sexually exploiting children.

4. Enforcement measures

To prevent breaches effectively, hsp implements the following measures:

1. • Technical safety measures: Regular checks of the systems to ensure that the app cannot be used to store or distribute illegal content.
   • Reporting system: All users, staff and partner organisations can report suspicious activity or content via a dedicated email address: ethikhsp-software.de.
   • Cooperation with public authorities and organisations: In the event of a breach, hsp cooperates closely with the relevant law enforcement authorities.
   • Raising staff awareness: All staff members receive regular training on the issues of child abuse, sexual exploitation and prevention, so that they can recognise suspicious behaviour.

5. Consequences of non-complianceFor users:

• • Immediate blocking of access to the app.
  • Reporting the breach to the relevant authorities.
  • Legal action to enforce the applicable laws

For staff:

• • Immediate termination in the event of breaches.
  • Reporting the behaviour to the law enforcement authorities.
  • Legal action to enforce the applicable laws.

For partner companies:

• • Termination of the collaboration in the event of breaches.
  • Reporting the behaviour to the law enforcement authorities.
  • Legal action to enforce the applicable laws.

6. Prevention and Responsibility

hsp is committed to taking proactive measures to combat misuse through the following:

• • Regular review of the terms of use: Ensuring that this policy remains an integral part of the terms and conditions and is updated regularly.
  • Transparency Report: Publication of an annual report on reported breaches and the measures taken.
  • Close cooperation with industry-wide initiatives to combat the sexual exploitation of children and with the relevant authorities. 

7. Concluding remarks

hsp is strongly committed to ensuring that the app is not used for purposes that could endanger or harm children. This policy underlines our commitment to ethical standards, the protection of the most vulnerable members of society, and strict compliance with all applicable laws.

As at 20 January 2025