Instant messaging has become a common means of communication in the business world. Previously limited to desktop ops, IM is now available on handheld devices and cell phones, allowing users to chat virtually anywhere.

However, like any type of communication on the Internet, IM has its own security risks. Regardless of what is provided by users at their place of business or on their home computer, IM is generally insecure and unpredictable, making it vulnerable to attack. The IM contact list on a computer infected with that computer may contain messages that are sent to all users.

In addition, popular IM protocols are increasingly differentiated. This allows users of one network to communicate with users of another network without having to install multiple IM clients. However, attackers can focus on these protocols, which allow a large number of users to represent the group. In such circumstances, any malicious code transmitted by one protocol is likely to be transmitted by another protocol.

Some of the most common risks of IM are:

Spim
Spim IM is worldwide spam. Spammers pretend to be IM users and use an automated program to send messages to randomly generated screen names and illegally collected names from the Internet. Not only is it annoying to deal with SPIM, but it can also be used as a sewer for security breaches.

Good horse
A number of Trojans target IM. Some of these Trojans pose great risks and give anyone full file access to their computer. Another classic backdoor Trojan is used by IM to send messages to the author of the Trojan and to give hackers information about the infected computer, from IP addresses to open ports.

Worm
In the same way that email messages are used to spread errors, IM is so users should not accept, click or launch suspicious instant messages.

Some of the proactive steps for small businesses to protect their IM environment may include:

Train employees and set company guidelines.
An important first step in IM security is learning about safe practices and incorporating them into company policies. To protect your business and employees, define the proper use of instant messaging in the workplace and encourage precautionary measures such as: Be careful when opening files or links and not accepting file transfers.

Install desktop security software.
Spyam usually requires users to download and open attachments, so the desktop can prevent threats by closing the .p-level security attachment or clearing the infected file. Install desktop firewalls to protect your personal computer from attacks by a company or local network. Desktop Firewall is also suitable for users who process sensitive data in remote office fees or remote office fees. You should install desktop antivirus programs as the last line of defense against viruses, worms and Trojans.

Install and update patches.
Large public IM networks often deploy IM patches in response to newly discovered vulnerabilities in their programs. You can reduce the risk of attacks on your company's computer by regularly installing and updating IM patches.

Protect IM protocol.
Many IM programs automatically create and save all conversations on the user's computer. Hackers can retrieve valuable information from these logs as well as specific statements made during interactions and trade secrets. To secure the content of IM conversations, you should store them behind corporate firewalls or explicit logos. Most public IM programs have the option to delete a function in the Settings section or the Logging Manager section.

Encrypt the message.
While the above recommendations will help you and your employees securely use public IM networks, organizations that use IM for business communications should also consider using their own encrypted IM servers.