Instant messaging, or IM in Internet slang, consists of sending real time messages to another Internet user. Instant messaging is comparable to chatting in your own private chat room, with only those people you choose to invite. You can create a list to keep track of welcome guests and alert you when one of them sends you a message.
Instant messaging is a bit more private than a typical chat room, and it is a much faster and simpler way to communicate than using email. Since instant messaging allows users to communicate in real time, users can respond quickly to questions or comments. Instant messaging is a great way to stay in touch with family members and friends while saving money on your long distance phone bills.
As with any online activity, caution should be exercised with messaging. It is not a good idea to add people to your list unless you know something about them. Children should be supervised carefully when instant messaging and should never add someone to their list or agree to be added to anyone else's list without approval from their parents. Predators have been known to use instant messaging as well as chat rooms to seek out victims, so while IM may seem safer, it is not without risks.
It is also possible to obtain viruses, worms, and Trojan horses through messaging, so care should be taken when accepting any files. Also, don't type anything that you wouldn't want shared with others, since IM's can be captured and the text can be saved. Even though messaging sessions seem private, they are really not any more secure than your average email. Instant messaging can be a lot of fun and it is a great way to communicate, but like anything else, it should be used with care.
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