ContactInfo

Contact information, or contactinfo, is the set of data that enables an entity to be reached by others. It is used by individuals and organizations to initiate communication for purposes such as service delivery, inquiries, or partnerships. Contact information generally includes multiple channels to accommodate different preferences.

Common components include telephone numbers, email addresses, physical mailing addresses, and, in some contexts, fax numbers, social media handles, and instant messaging identifiers. Formats vary by channel: phone numbers commonly follow international E.164 standards; emails follow RFC 5322 syntax; postal addresses follow national conventions; social media handles and messaging IDs depend on platform.

Data are collected directly from individuals or compiled by organizations from public sources. They are stored in databases with access restrictions and may be subject to privacy laws, such as consent requirements and data minimization. Retention should be limited to purposes stated at collection. Verification processes, such as confirmation emails or SMS codes, help ensure accuracy.

Usage is typically showcased on public contact pages, business cards, or customer support systems. Good practice includes providing multiple channels, clear instructions, and timely updates if contact details change. Accessibility considerations include preserving simple forms, alternate text for verifiable channels, and multilingual support.

Security measures protect contact information in transit and at rest, including encryption, access controls, and regular audits. Handling contactinfo responsibly, respecting user consent, keeping data current, and limiting exposure, is an ongoing obligation for organizations.