A telephone set includes a base and a handset which are interconnected by a cord terminated in a modular plug and jack, at least on the handset end of the cord. The plug is recessed far enough in the handset to preclude an electrostatic coupling between a human hand holding the handset and the plug and jack. Also, the recessing is far enough to keep the plug from becoming dislodged from the jack by an accidental movement of a locking leaf spring or plug associated with said plug.