Privacy Policy
1. Introduction
The Gate Holding Group (“we,” “us,” “our,” or “Company”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard information in connection with our lead generation services for personal injury law firms.
This policy covers two categories of individuals:
- Law Firm Customers: Personal injury law firms and legal professionals who purchase leads from us
- Lead Subjects: Individuals whose information is collected through our search advertising and digital lead platforms for the purpose of connecting them with legal representation
Please read this Privacy Policy carefully. By using our services, you consent to the practices described in this policy.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Information About Law Firm Customers (Our Clients)
When you register as a customer or use our services, we collect:
Account Information:
- Firm name and business information
- Contact person name and title
- Business phone number, email address, and mailing address
- Mobile phone number (for SMS notifications)
- Practice areas and service preferences
Business Information:
- Law firm license information
- State bar membership details
- Geographic service areas
- Case type preferences and criteria
Account Activity:
- Lead purchase history
- SMS notification preferences
- Payment and billing information
- Service usage and engagement data
Communication Preferences:
- SMS opt-in/opt-out status
- Email notification settings
- Preferred contact methods
2.2 Information About Lead Subjects (Potential Clients)
We collect personal information about individuals seeking legal representation through our lead generation activities:
Contact Information:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Email address
- Mailing address and location
Incident Information:
- Type of accident or injury (auto accident, personal injury, rideshare, truck, motorcycle, bicycle/pedestrian)
- Date and location of incident
- Description of injuries and severity
- At-fault status
- Police report status
- Insurance information
- Medical treatment details
Demographic Information:
- Age or date of birth
- Employment status
- Other relevant case details
2.3 Information Automatically Collected
When individuals interact with our lead capture forms or advertisements, we automatically collect:
- IP address and geographic location
- Device type, browser type, and operating system
- Referring source (search engine, keyword, ad campaign)
- Form submission timestamp
- User behavior on lead forms
2.4 SMS Program Information
When law firm customers opt in to our SMS program, we collect:
- Mobile phone number
- Carrier information
- Opt-in timestamp and method
- Message delivery status
- Opt-out requests and timestamps
- SMS engagement metrics
3. How We Collect Information
3.1 Search Advertising Campaigns
We generate leads through targeted search advertising on Google and Bing. When individuals actively search for legal representation using terms such as:
- “Car accident lawyer near me”
- “Personal injury attorney”
- “Auto accident lawyer”
Our advertisements appear in search results. When users click these ads and submit inquiry forms, we collect the information they provide.
3.2 Digital Lead Platforms and Forms
We utilize select third-party applications and proprietary intake forms specifically designed for legal lead capture. These forms are structured to collect the information law firms need to evaluate potential cases.
3.3 Direct Business Relationships
We collect information about law firm customers through:
- Account registration and onboarding
- Direct communications (phone, email, SMS)
- Service agreements and contracts
- Account management activities
4. How We Use Information
4.1 Use of Lead Subject Information
We use information about individuals seeking legal representation to:
Lead Qualification and Delivery:
- Verify and validate lead quality
- Match leads with appropriate law firms based on case type, location, and practice areas
- Deliver qualified lead information to purchasing law firms
- Follow quality control and compliance procedures
Service Improvement:
- Analyze lead conversion rates and quality metrics
- Optimize advertising campaigns and targeting
- Improve lead capture forms and processes
- Conduct research and analytics on lead generation effectiveness
Legal Compliance:
- Maintain records as required by law
- Respond to legal requests and regulatory requirements
- Protect against fraud and abuse
4.2 Use of Law Firm Customer Information
We use information about our law firm customers to:
Service Delivery:
- Provide lead generation services
- Send lead notifications via SMS, email, or account dashboard
- Process payments and billing
- Manage customer accounts
Communication:
- Send SMS notifications about new leads (with consent)
- Provide customer support and service updates
- Communicate about account status and billing
- Send service-related announcements
Business Operations:
- Analyze service performance and lead quality
- Improve our services and offerings
- Develop new features and products
- Conduct market research
Marketing (With Consent):
- Send promotional communications about our services
- Provide information about new offerings or features
- Share industry news and insights
5. How We Share Information
5.1 Sharing Lead Information with Law Firms
Primary Business Purpose: We share lead subject information with personal injury law firms who purchase leads from us. This is the core purpose of our business.
Information Shared with Law Firms:
- Lead contact information (name, phone, email, address)
- Complete incident and case details
- All information collected through intake forms
- Lead source and timestamp
Lead Distribution Models:
- Leads may be sold exclusively to one law firm
- Leads may be sold non-exclusively to multiple firms
- Distribution method depends on the lead type and customer agreements
Law Firm Responsibilities: Law firms that receive leads are responsible for:
- Complying with attorney-client confidentiality requirements
- Following applicable privacy laws and bar association rules
- Protecting the personal information they receive
- Using lead information only for legitimate legal representation purposes
5.2 Service Providers and Business Partners
We share information with third-party service providers who assist with our operations:
SMS and Communication Platforms:
- Twilio and similar providers to deliver SMS notifications to law firm customers
- Email service providers for customer communications
Advertising Platforms:
- Google Ads, Microsoft Advertising for search campaign management
- Digital lead platforms that capture and transmit lead information
Analytics and Technology:
- Google Analytics and similar tools to analyze website and campaign performance
- CRM systems to manage customer relationships and lead data
- Cloud storage providers for secure data storage
Payment Processing:
- Payment processors for billing and transaction management
These service providers are contractually obligated to protect information and use it only for authorized purposes.
5.3 Legal Requirements and Protection
We may disclose information when required by law or when necessary to:
- Comply with legal obligations, subpoenas, court orders, or regulatory requirements
- Protect our rights, property, or safety
- Protect the rights, property, or safety of our customers or the public
- Prevent or investigate fraud, security issues, or illegal activities
- Enforce our terms and conditions or service agreements
5.4 Business Transfers
In the event of a merger, acquisition, reorganization, bankruptcy, or sale of assets, information we hold may be transferred as part of that transaction. We will notify affected parties via email and/or prominent notice on our website.
5.5 With Consent
We may share information with other third parties when we have obtained explicit consent to do so.
5.6 No Sale of Personal Information
We do not sell personal information to third parties for their independent marketing purposes.
However, please note:
- Sharing lead information with law firms is part of our core business service, not a “sale” in the traditional sense
- Under some privacy laws (like CCPA), transferring lead data to law firms may be considered a “sale” or “sharing”
- Law firm customers who receive SMS notifications have consented to these communications
6. SMS Messaging Program Privacy
6.1 SMS Program for Law Firm Customers
Our SMS program sends notifications to law firm customers about:
- New lead deliveries
- Lead alerts and updates
- Account notifications
- Service announcements
6.2 Consent and Opt-In
Law firm customers must explicitly opt in to receive SMS notifications by:
- Providing their mobile phone number and checking opt-in boxes
- Texting keywords to our SMS number
- Verbally consenting during business communications
- Enabling SMS in their account settings
6.3 SMS Data Collection
When law firms participate in our SMS program, we collect:
- Mobile phone number and carrier information
- Opt-in date, time, and method
- Message delivery and engagement status
- Opt-out requests and preferences
6.4 SMS Data Use
We use SMS data to:
- Deliver time-sensitive lead notifications
- Send service updates and account alerts
- Track delivery and engagement for service improvement
- Process opt-out requests and honor preferences
- Ensure compliance with telecommunications regulations
6.5 SMS Data Sharing
Law firm customer mobile phone numbers:
- Are shared with our SMS service provider (Twilio) as necessary to deliver messages
- Are NOT sold to third parties for marketing purposes
- May be disclosed as required by law
- Are protected under our standard data security measures
6.6 Lead Information in SMS Messages
Important Security Notice: SMS messages sent to law firm customers may contain personally identifiable information (PII) about lead subjects, including names, contact information, and case details.
Customer Responsibilities:
- Law firms are responsible for securing their mobile devices
- SMS is not an encrypted communication channel
- Law firms must comply with attorney-client confidentiality requirements
- Sensitive communications should use secure channels when possible
Our Security Measures: We use secure protocols for message transmission, but customers acknowledge the inherent limitations of SMS security.
7. Data Retention
We retain information for as long as necessary to fulfill business purposes and legal obligations.
Retention Periods:
Lead Subject Information:
- Active leads: Retained while lead is being pursued by law firms
- Completed leads: Retained for 3-7 years for business records and compliance
- Opted-out individuals: Suppression lists maintained indefinitely
Law Firm Customer Information:
- Active customers: Retained for duration of business relationship
- Former customers: Retained for 7 years for business records and tax compliance
- SMS opt-in data: Retained for duration of participation plus compliance period
- Opt-out requests: Maintained indefinitely to honor preferences
Legal and Compliance:
- As required by applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards
- To support potential legal claims or disputes
- For audit and business record purposes
Individuals may request deletion of their information (see Section 11 – Your Rights), subject to legal and business retention requirements.
8. Data Security
We implement comprehensive security measures to protect information from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.
Security Measures Include:
Technical Safeguards:
- Encryption of data in transit (TLS/SSL) and at rest
- Secure data storage and backup systems
- Access controls and multi-factor authentication
- Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments
- Intrusion detection and prevention systems
Administrative Safeguards:
- Employee training on data privacy and security
- Background checks for employees with data access
- Strict access control policies (need-to-know basis)
- Incident response and breach notification procedures
Physical Safeguards:
- Secure facilities and server locations
- Controlled access to systems and data centers
- Secure disposal of physical and electronic records
Vendor Security:
- Contractual security requirements for all service providers
- Regular vendor security assessments
- Data processing agreements with third parties
Limitations: While we implement industry-standard security measures, no system is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security, and users should take precautions to protect their own devices and credentials.
9. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
9.1 Use of Cookies
We use cookies and similar tracking technologies on our lead capture forms and website to:
- Track advertising campaign performance
- Understand user behavior and form completion rates
- Optimize lead capture processes
- Prevent fraud and duplicate submissions
- Analyze traffic sources and conversion rates
9.2 Types of Tracking Technologies
Cookies: Small text files stored on devices
- Essential cookies for form functionality
- Analytics cookies for performance measurement
- Advertising cookies for campaign tracking
Pixels and Beacons: Tracking codes embedded in ads and forms
- Conversion tracking for advertising platforms
- Lead source attribution
- Form submission confirmation
Third-Party Tracking:
- Google Analytics for website and form analytics
- Google Ads and Microsoft Advertising conversion pixels
- Third-party lead platform tracking tools
9.3 Managing Cookies
Users can control cookies through browser settings, but disabling cookies may affect:
- Form functionality and submission
- Our ability to track lead sources
- Advertising campaign optimization
10. Third-Party Platforms
10.1 Advertising Platforms
We use Google Ads and Microsoft Advertising to run search campaigns. These platforms:
- Display our ads based on user search queries
- Track ad clicks and conversions
- Collect information subject to their own privacy policies
10.2 Lead Generation Platforms
We partner with select third-party lead generation platforms that:
- Capture lead information through their forms and applications
- Share lead data with us under contractual agreements
- May have their own privacy policies governing their practices
10.3 Law Firm Websites
When law firms receive leads from us, they may contact lead subjects directly. We are not responsible for:
- How law firms handle or protect lead information
- Privacy practices of law firm websites or communications
- Attorney-client relationships established after lead delivery
11. Your Rights and Choices
11.1 Rights of Lead Subjects
If you are an individual whose information was collected through our lead generation activities:
Access and Correction:
- Request access to the information we collected about you
- Request correction of inaccurate information
Opt-Out and Deletion:
- Request that we stop sharing your information with law firms
- Request deletion of your information (subject to legal exceptions)
- Opt out of future lead generation activities
Information About Sharing:
- Request information about which law firms received your data
- Understand how your information has been used
How to Exercise Rights: Contact us at privacy@thegateholdinggroup.com or 888-901-6043
11.2 Rights of Law Firm Customers
If you are a law firm customer:
Account Access:
- Access and update your account information
- Review your lead purchase history
- Update notification preferences
SMS Opt-Out:
- Reply STOP to any SMS message
- Update SMS preferences in your account settings
- Contact customer support to opt out
Data Deletion:
- Request deletion of your account information after termination of services
- Subject to record retention requirements for business and tax purposes
11.3 California Privacy Rights (CCPA/CPRA)
California residents have specific rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act:
For Lead Subjects:
- Right to know what information is collected and how it’s used
- Right to know which law firms received your information
- Right to opt out of the “sale” or “sharing” of personal information
- Right to deletion of personal information
- Right to non-discrimination for exercising privacy rights
“Sale” or “Sharing” Under CCPA: Providing lead information to law firms may be considered a “sale” or “sharing” under California law, even though it’s our core business service.
How to Opt Out: Submit a request through our Do Not Sell My Personal Information form or contact privacy@thegateholdinggroup.com
For Law Firm Customers: Standard CCPA rights apply to business contact information we collect.
11.4 Other State Privacy Rights
Nevada: Nevada residents may opt out of the sale of personal information. We do not sell information as defined under Nevada law, but you may still submit an opt-out request.
Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, Utah: Residents have rights similar to CCPA, including access, correction, deletion, and opt-out rights.
11.5 Exercising Your Rights
To submit a privacy request:
- Email: privacy@thegateholdinggroup.com
- Phone: 888-901-6043
- Mail: The Gate Holding Group, Privacy Rights, 30 N Gould St Ste R, Sheridan, WY 82801
We will respond within the timeframe required by applicable law (typically 30-45 days).
Verification: We may require verification of your identity before processing requests to protect against fraudulent requests.
12. Children’s Privacy
Our services are not directed to children under 18. Lead generation activities target adults seeking legal representation. We do not knowingly collect information from children under 18.
If we learn that we have collected information from a child under 18, we will delete it promptly. If you believe we have information about a child, contact us immediately.
13. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect:
- Changes in our business practices
- New legal or regulatory requirements
- Service enhancements or new features
- Feedback from customers or regulators
Notification of Changes:
- Updated policy posted on our website with new “Last Updated” date
- Email notification to law firm customers for material changes
- SMS notification to opted-in customers when appropriate
- Notice on account dashboard
Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
We encourage periodic review of this policy to stay informed about how we protect information.
14. International Data Transfers
Our services operate in the United States. Information collected through our services may be:
- Transferred to and stored in the United States
- Processed by service providers in various locations
- Subject to U.S. laws and regulations
By using our services or submitting information through our lead forms, you consent to the transfer of information to the United States and other jurisdictions where data protection laws may differ from your country of residence.
15. Do Not Track Signals
Some browsers support “Do Not Track” (DNT) signals. We do not currently respond to DNT signals because there is no industry standard for how to interpret and respond to them.
16. Contact Information
General Inquiries:
The Gate Holding Group
30 N Gould St Ste R
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: 888-901-6043
Email: support@thegateholdinggroup.com
Privacy-Specific Inquiries:
Email: privacy@thegateholdinggroup.com
Subject Line: “Privacy Request” or “Data Subject Request”
For law firm customers with account questions:
Email: support@thegateholdinggroup.com
Phone: 888-901-6043
When contacting us about privacy matters, please include:
- Your full name and contact information
- Detailed description of your request
- Any relevant dates, reference numbers, or account information
- Whether you are a lead subject or law firm customer
Response Time: We respond to privacy inquiries within 30 days (or as required by applicable law).
17. Compliance and Certifications
SMS Compliance:
- Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)
- FCC A2P 10DLC Regulations
- CTIA Messaging Principles and Best Practices
- The Campaign Registry (TCR) requirements
- Twilio Acceptable Use Policy
Privacy Compliance:
- California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA/CPRA)
- State privacy laws (Virginia CDPA, Colorado CPA, Connecticut CTDPA, Utah UCPA, Nevada SB 220)
- Industry best practices for lead generation
Legal and Advertising:
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulations
- Google Ads and Microsoft Advertising policies
- State bar association advertising rules
- Consumer protection laws
18. Special Notice for Law Firms
As a law firm customer receiving lead information, you acknowledge that:
- Professional Responsibility: You are responsible for complying with all applicable bar association rules, attorney advertising regulations, and client confidentiality requirements
- Data Security: You must implement appropriate security measures to protect lead information, including securing devices that receive SMS notifications
- Prohibited Uses: Lead information may not be used for purposes other than legitimate legal representation
- No Attorney-Client Relationship: Receipt of lead information does not create an attorney-client relationship until you establish one directly with the individual
- Independent Privacy Obligations: You have independent privacy obligations to individuals you contact, separate from our privacy practices
19. Special Notice for Lead Subjects
If you submitted your information through our lead generation forms:
- Purpose: Your information was collected to connect you with personal injury law firms who may be able to represent you.
- Sharing: Your information has been or will be shared with law firms based on your case type and location.
- Multiple Contacts: You may be contacted by one or more law firms depending on how your lead was distributed.
- No Endorsement: Sharing your information with a law firm does not constitute an endorsement or
recommendation. - Your Rights: You have the right to opt out of future sharing and request deletion of your information
(contact information in Section 16)
By using our services, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy and agree to its terms.
