Instant messaging or ‘IM’ for short is the ability to correspond and communicate with friends and co-workers in a conversational manner via a computer and instant messaging service. It is a very fast and easy way of communication between one and another.

It is important to remember that, in order for your Instant Messenger to be secure, your computer must also be secure. It is vital that you run up-to-date anti-virus software, and that you regularly apply security patches to your computer.

There are several safety issues related to using Instant Messenger programs. The first is privacy. Make sure you don’t exchange any personal details in your conversation. Ensure that no personal information is available on your personal profiles for others to view. Secondly, talk only to those you know really well - avoid strangers. Most Instant messengers have a ‘block user’ facility, if you feel a stranger is harassing you - block the user and report it to the Instant messenger service help.

Most messengers offer a file transfer facility, transferring music, text and picture files between users. This is generally a risk as a user may be sending you a virus or Trojan disguised as another file type. Make sure you don’t accept to transfer files with any strangers.

Don’t exchange passwords over an IM conversation many users may be in the chat environment and they’ll be able to see what you type.

Make sure you report all spam or junk mail to the Instant Messenger provider. They can ban or block the user from using their service, as it will be against their terms and conditions

Follow This Advice:

* Never give out personal info, even if you know to whom you are talking too.
* Never accept files for download, especially if they have an .scr, .pif or .exe extension.
* Remove all personal info from your profile.
* Change your country of origin to - say China
* Make your secret question and answer something random like wuyrenf7643jktro8y.
* Be VERY cautious about the questions you answer on your instant messenger.
* Use an email that ONLY YOU know for Habbo and use another email for MSN.

These steps will help keep your password safe from someone trying to access your account, also consider using AIM or Yahoo instant messaging as these are a little more secure.

Finally - if you MUST download then scan ALL files with anti-virus software before opening them, but make sure that your virus definition files are up to date.

Find out more information on Instant messenger safety here
http://www.wiredteens.org/parentsim.html