WebJunction

Instant messaging is rapidly becoming one of the most popular online communication tools. Instant messaging programs include MSN Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger, and Yahoo Messenger. For some users, especially teenagers and young adults, it is the preferred way to keep in touch online. Unfortunately, just as with email, there are security risks with using instant messaging programs.

These risks are not all that different from those involved in using email, and many of the same strategies can be used to keep your computer safe when you use instant messaging programs. Keeping your anti-virus, instant messaging, firewall and other software up-to-date is an essential basic practice for safe computing.

The most important rule is to make absolutely sure that any files and web page links (URLs) sent to you via instant messaging really came from a trusted source. Unfortunately, just because the message appears to come from someone you know doesn't mean it can be trusted. Some viruses or other malicious programs will send an instant message containing bad links or files to everyone on the victim's instant messaging contact list. Because of this, an instant message that appears to come from someone on your contact list could have been generated by a virus.

Before downloading files or clicking on links sent via instant message you should always confirm that they came from the actual sender. To be genuinely safe you should check using email, phone, or something other than instant messaging to confirm the message.

You should be especially suspicious of messages that appear with comments like "Try This!!!" or "HILARIOUS!!" followed by a link or file.

For more tips and information on instant messaging security read:

"Instant Messaging Security" from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana

"5 steps to help avoid instant message viruses" from Microsoft

"Instant Messenger Viruses" from Boston College