A system for automatically updating personal consumer and business contact information is disclosed. A server located “in the cloud” automatically controls a database of contact data elements, some of which have preferred privacy protocol. These protocols may restrict some data elements from being shared unless a data-owner's explicit permission is obtained. When the server receives a request for such a restricted data element, the server issues an email or text message in order to obtain the necessary permissions. If permission is granted, the server then supplies the requested data.