Full definition
Lead validation is the set of automated checks that run on every incoming lead before it is distributed to a buyer. Typical validations include: phone number format and line-type checks (is this a real, dialable number and not a landline where mobile was requested), email syntax and deliverability checks (does the domain exist, does the mailbox accept mail), address normalization, and name-plausibility checks that flag obvious junk like 'asdf asdf' or 'Test Test'. Validation happens upstream of distribution so buyers never receive leads that fail basic quality bars — and so suppliers get fast feedback on what they sent. Good platforms distinguish between hard failures (syntactically invalid email) and soft signals (disposable email domain, mobile carrier mismatch) and let operators decide which to block versus flag.
Related terms
The process of identifying leads that match a previously received lead so they are not distributed twice.
The process of automatically routing incoming sales leads from suppliers to buyers using rules and software.
The source of leads in a distribution system — typically a marketing partner, affiliate, or lead-gen vendor.