Why choosing a GDPR-compliant link tree alternative is important
Links play an immense role in today's online world. Links on websites, in social media bios or other digital spaces are indispensable for linking content and directing users to the information that is relevant to them.
This makes it all the more important to pay attention to the legal framework when selecting linking tools such as link-in-bio solutions. Especially for users from Germany and the EU, GDPR compliance and corresponding data storage in Europe is crucial. Unfortunately, many popular tools that originate from the USA do not take into account the strict European data protection requirements.
In this article, we therefore present our German Linktree alternative Zeeg. In contrast to its US counterpart (and similar solutions), Zeeg meets all GDPR requirements and stores your data exclusively on European servers at European companies. This allows you to manage your links securely and legally compliant.
Introducing Linktree: What is it?
Linktree is an extremely popular and widely used link-in-bio solution. The platform allows users to place multiple links in their Instagram or other social media bios. Especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Linktree is very often used as a linking tool. Links to various destinations can be created via a simple interface and the Linktree link can then be copied into the bio. This creates a kind of digital link tree with different branches for users.
Data protection and GDPR: Why it's crucial
However, Linktree is a US platform that does not take any account of the strict European data protection laws. User data is stored and processed in the USA. A new EU-US data protection agreement was agreed on July 10, 2023, which certifies that US companies have an adequate level of data protection. However, Linktree is not listed in the database of certified companies. This means that there is still a risk for German users in terms of GDPR compliance. This is highly problematic for German users, as it violates GDPR requirements. In summary, the following risks exist:
- Daten werden in den USA gespeichert und verarbeitet
- Keine Einhaltung der DSGVO-Standards
- Fehlende Verschlüsselung und Privatsphäre-Einstellungen
- Datenweitergabe an Dritte möglich
- Gefahr von Abmahnungen und Bußgeldern
The German Linktree Alternative
For this reason, Zeeg now offers a data protection-compliant link-in-bio solution from Germany. Zeeg was developed from the start in accordance with strict German data protection standards and hosts all data on European servers.
In addition to the classic link tree functions, Zeeg also offers an appointment booking solution via one or multiple integrated calendars. This allows users to easily book appointments via the Zeeg links. This combination of link management and calendar automation makes Zeeg the German all-in-one solution for organic linking. This means that the sensitive data of European users is never transferred to the USA.
A step-by-step guide to creating
Setting up with Zeeg is simple and intuitive:
- Create a free Zeeg account.
- Add links to your social media profiles or websites.
- Customize the design of your Zeeg page.
- Copy the Zeeg link and paste it into your Instagram or TikTok bio.
That's it! It's that easy to integrate your personalized Zeeg page into your bio in compliance with data protection regulations.
Insert your Zeeg link in Instagram bio
To add a Zeeg link to your Instagram bio, proceed as follows:
- Click on "Share Zeeg link" at the top right
- Then click on "Add link in bio to social media"
- Select Instagram and click on "Open Instagram"
- You will now be forwarded directly to your profile area
- Now paste the copied Zeeg link into your Instagram bio
- Save the changes by tapping on "Done"
Your Instagram followers can now access your personalized Zeeg page with all your links via the link in your bio. This way, you can provide them with all the important links in a clear way without violating the Instagram link restriction.
Advantages of the German Linktree alternative
Zeeg offers decisive advantages over Linktree:
- Compliance with the GDPR and German hosting
- No data transfer to the USA
- Attractive design and full customization options
- Additional functions such as appointment booking calendar
- Free basic package is already very comprehensive
Linktree Costs vs. Zeeg Costs
Linktree offers various paid subscriptions:
- Linktree Free: Free, but with limited features
- Linktree Starter: 4€ per month with monthly payment
- Linktree Pro: 8€ per month with monthly payment
- Linktree Unlimited: 22€ per month with monthly payment
Zeeg also has a free basic package, but this already includes many functions for designing the link page. There are two paid packages for advanced features:
- Zeeg Starter: Free basic package
- Zeeg Professional: €7 per month with monthly payment
- Zeeg Business: 14€ per month with monthly payment
The free version of Zeeg is therefore superior to the Linktree Free package. In the paid packages, the prices are comparable, although Zeeg offers extended functions, especially in the area of scheduling.
Conclusion
With Zeeg, there is now a data protection-compliant and GDPR-compliant alternative to the US service Linktree. German users can integrate their link tree into their bio in a secure and legally compliant manner without running the risk of a warning letter. Thanks to European hosting, the data remains protected at all times. Zeeg combines the advantages of Linktree and Calendly with compliance with strict German data protection standards.
FAQ
What is better than Linktree?
The German provider Zeeg is considered a better alternative to Linktree. In contrast to Linktree, Zeeg fulfills the requirements of the GDPR, hosts all data in Europe and offers additional functions such as appointment booking.
Why not Linktree?
As a US provider, Linktree does not comply with the strict European data protection laws. For German users, this poses a risk in terms of GDPR compliance. In addition, the data is stored in the USA. For these reasons, Linktree is not recommended.
How much does Linktree cost?
Linktree offers a free basic version with a limited range of functions and two paid premium packages. The "Pro" package costs 6 USD per month, the "Unlimited" package 15 USD per month with annual billing.
Why Linktree?
The reasons for Linktree are its high profile and widespread use, as well as its ease of use. However, there are major disadvantages for German users in terms of data protection and GDPR compliance.
Is Linktree GDPR compliant?
No, as a US provider, Linktree is not GDPR-compliant. Data is transferred to the USA and the strict EU data protection standards are not complied with. There is a legal risk for German users.