Importance

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Abstract

A system and method for establishing a telephone connection between two parties without disclosing either party's telephone number. The system receives from a first party a call request for a second party. The call request includes an identifier of the second party (e.g., electronic mail address, instant messaging user name) and data concerning the first party (e.g., telephone number, name, picture). The system informs the second party (e.g., via electronic mail) of the call request and solicits the second party's telephone number if not known. If the second party approves the call, the system establishes a telephone connection between them. System subscribers may configure various preferences, including default rules regarding their availability for all or certain types of calls, how to classify calls (e.g., by caller identity, date, time, nature of call). The system may be used to reach a party matching specified parameters (e.g., pizza shop, customer service department).

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First Claim