Safe Instant Messaging

Instant messaging is one of the most convenient ways to connect to people whether it is for personal use or business. The technology has been around for quite some time, it is a very cost efficient option and is even used in mobile computing despite other text messaging options. The most popular instant messaging services are Yahoo Chat, AIM, ICQ, Google Chat, Windows Messenger and Skype. IMs allow people to chat real time, have face-to-face interaction as well as voice conversations. When it comes to instant messaging though, online safety rules still apply. Even the most trusted services can become susceptible to cyber attacks such as spammers, scams, online predators and even malware. Here are some simple online security tips to follow when using instant messaging programs.

Keep things private – be stingy about sharing your screen name and if possible keep your profile visible only to friends. Take your permissions seriously and only allow those in your contacts to send you messages call you or share your webcam, especially if you are not using your screen name for business. Likewise, make sure you introduce yourself properly to people you want to add you on their list. Apart from screen names, do not share your password and other pertinent information easily. Posting your information online is as good as wearing a bull’s eye for cybercriminals to see. From time to time scan your list, validate and remove contacts you do not recognize.

Downloads and Links – do not click, download or accept files from people you do not know. This is one of the most common ways viruses and other malware spread through instant messaging. If you do know the sender and you are expecting the link confirm it anyway just to make sure you are not downloading anything harmful.

Utilize Updates – make sure that you keep your computers anti-virus, firewall and Windows security updated. Using an updated version of your IM program is also important; this will also update the malware detection program within your messaging application to help scan and block unwanted software.

Secure Instant Messaging – if you absolutely need to share sensitive information over chat make sure that your communication is encrypted. Generally instant messages are not encrypted but there are many encryption plug-ins that you can use to secure your correspondence such as BitDefender or Simplite. Skype also has a level of encryption at 256 bit which is better than nothing.

Secure your Webcam – perhaps one off the scariest things is having someone tap into your webcam. Make sure that you share your webcam only with people that you know or are in your contact list. Look for a chat service that lets you configure your webcam to share only with trusted computers. If you are using an external webcam, or one that is not built in to your computer, secure it with a password if possible and check for software updates periodically.

Got other instant messaging safety tips? Share it with us on the comments section.

ABOUT MY TECH TEAM:
My Tech Team is a leading online tech support company based in the U.S, providing nationwide on demand enterprise level computer support and protection 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

 
Would you be so kind to share this post? Use the buttons below.

You Might Also Like...

• Multiple Instant Messenger Fix
• Google Instant – The Future of Search
• Facebook Places – How safe is it?
• Use Windows Live Messenger to Stay In Touch
• Tips for safe online shopping