What type of information can be included in electronically stored information (ESI)?

Electronically stored information (ESI) encompasses a wide range of digital content that is stored on electronic devices or systems. This includes various forms of digital communication, such as emails, instant messages, digital documents, spreadsheets, databases, and files from cloud storage. The breadth of ESI is significant because it not only captures communication but also any data that can be manipulated and stored electronically.

Focusing on the nature of ESI, it is designed to reflect the diverse ways in which information is created and shared in digital environments. Thus, the inclusion of various digital communication forms acknowledges the numerous platforms and formats that can generate ESI. This definition paints a broader picture of what constitutes ESI, making it crucial for privacy professionals to understand all potential sources of electronic data for compliance and data handling purposes.