Online Instant Messaging

There are many benefits to using online instant messaging as an effective communication tool among friends and coworkers. These programs provide the kind of immediate feedback that is not possible through email. It also allows participants a level of privacy that is not available in chat rooms or on Internet forums. Most users will develop a friends list from among acquaintances who utilize the same program. Whenever an individual accesses the Internet, many of these programs will inform all of the friends on the user's list that the individual is online. Getting started with online instant messaging is really very simple. Once a user has chosen a program from the many that are currently available, they will simply need to download software, choose a nickname, register, and begin. The simplicity and anonymity that is provided by these services can, however, lead to a number of problems. Parents and schools are justifiably concerned about inappropriate contacts that children might make through instant messaging, or IM services. For this reason, most schools will block the installation of this software from their computers. While young people enjoy connecting with friends through IM, it is also possible to communicate with predators without being aware. There is software available that allows parents to monitor their children's IM contacts. While some see these products as an invasion of privacy, others feel that such protective steps are necessary in a world that can be hostile to the innocent and unsuspecting. Educating children on the pitfalls of these programs is a must. Any suspicious behavior should be reported to the administrators of a service or to local law enforcement.



There are a number of popular features that may be available with online instant messaging services. In many cases, a user can customize the appearance of their IM program through animations, scenes, and sounds that are widely available. Some programs even allow users to share digital photographs and images within the conversation window. Even mobile phones are becoming part of this popular trend since there are a number of IM services that provide mobile phone capabilities. A variety of plug-ins may also be available. These plug-ins are features that allow users to do more than just chat. The ability to listen to music, watch videos or a number of other features can be achieved through these add ons. Games that can be used in conjunction with IM software have become very popular as well. Unfortunately, IM activity is not free from the possibility of virus infection. As with other Internet communication tools, there are some basic protective steps that users should follow. Accepting downloads or opening unknown files via instant message can be dangerous, particularly if the source if the file or download is not someone that the users knows outside of the Internet realm. Frequently updating security software is a must to remain completely protected against these viruses. The most updated version of an online instant messaging program can give added protection as well. Utilizing anti spyware may also be helpful.



In addition to these practical precautions, there are a number of other things to keep in mind when enjoying online instant messaging. The selection of an IM nickname should be done with care. Anything that tags a participant in any way is not a good idea. If the user is a minor, this could put them in danger of becoming a target for online predators. For example, "CincinnatiCindy15" could act a a magnet for inappropriate solicitations by predatory individuals. The more general the nickname the better. Anything that identifies the user in too personal a way should be avoided. As with email addresses, it is important not to share an IM screen name too freely or to post these names and addresses in public places. Taking extra precautions here can help to protect against messages from undesirable users. Personal information should remain private. If someone presses for a phone number or physical address, it is generally not a good idea to give this information out, particularly if the corespondent is known only through the Internet. Generally speaking, it is not wise to give out personal data in and instant messaging conversation. Additionally, meeting in person with someone who is known only through online instant messaging can be downright dangerous and should be avoided. Unless IM activity is part of keeping in contact with fellow employees, participating in IM conversations while at work can cause a number of problems and could even cost a user their job.



Millions of American enjoy online instant messaging on a regular basis. In some cases, the programs may be used as a means of interoffice communication. Others use the software for purely social reasons. While it is true that these real time messages are very popular among young people, the use of these communication tools spans a wide variety of age groups. The Bible discusses the attitude that believers should have toward one another. "Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous." (1 Peter 3:8)



Part of the fun of online instant messaging is learning to master text talk. There are a number of abbreviations and acronyms that can simplify an IM conversation. For example, "2moro" and "2nite" will obviously translate to "tomorrow" and "tonight." "A3" means "anyplace, anytime, anywhere" in IM circles. For the more text literate users, there's "AYTMTB" or "and you're telling me this because." The number of text talk phrases is endless. With care and precautions, IM participation can be a fun way to communicate via the net.