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Instant Messaging

 

Instant Messaging is a form of real-time communication between two or more people using text or audio accompanied with video streaming. It is similar to using the telephone to do conferencing except in this case, you are using the computer with the Internet network. The technology has improved so much that you can use Instant Messaging (IM) software to type or chat using microphone and seeing each other using the webcam at the same time. You can also exchange data files by using the File Transfer function. Most interesting of all, its FREE !

You can also monitor your chat by saving a log files for reference at a later date.
It is no longer surprising to find that most PC at home or workplace have some software that allow Instant Messaging by the user. However, there are companies that banned their staffs from using it, claiming that it is actually counter-productive to the company.

Instant Messaging software is being used for Friend-to-Friends Network where chatrooms were created for friends of the same network.  Companies are using it for communication between staffs or regional headquarters.

Instant Messaging can address the following functions :

  1. Quick questions and clarifications
  2. Coordinating and Scheduling Tasks
  3. Coordinating impromptu meetings
  4. Keeping in touch with friends and family
  5. Embracing the technology

Risks and Liabilities

Although Instant Messaging is so versatile and useful for many users, the potential risks and liabilities that one can encounter particularly in a workplace is high.

Among these risk and liabilities are :

  1. Security Risk e.g. IM is being used to infect computers with viruses or spyware
  1. Compliance Risks  e.g.  The need to produced archives to satisfy Government laws
  1. Inappropriate Usage  e.g.  To prevent scandal or sexual harassment in workplace
  1. Intellectual Property Leakage  e.g. To prevent release of Confidential documents or Project details to outside source

Example of some common Instant Messaging Software :

Tencent QQ          ---    317 Million users . Mainly in China

Windows
Live Messenger     ---    294 Million users 

Yahoo Messenger  ---    248 Million users

Skype                     ---    309 Million users

 

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